In the wild, birds will spend most of their day foraging, or searching, for food. The many skills used while foraging stimulates them both physically and mentally. For many pet birds foraging behavior rarely occurs because food is plainly placed in a bowl in front of them. A natural activity that would take up most of their day has now been decreased to few minutes. Naturally, birds spend most of their day foraging, interacting with the flock, grooming/preening, and sleeping. If a foraging type activity is not provided for birds in captivity this leaves several hours per day left with nothing to do. Understandably, we work and have our own responsibilities... but we do give our beloved pet birds as much time and love as we possibly can! However during that time we are not around this leaves our birds with little to do. Many birds will spend that time grooming. Often developing into feather plucking/over preening issues.
The benefit to giving your bird foraging activities/toys will alleviate boredom and help prevent behavioral issues. Foraging provides your bird a challange which will give your bird physical and mental exercise.
Start by using your birds favorite treat and explore the toy with your bird. Show your bird how it opens and how to get the treats out. Once your bird masters the "easy" rated foraging toys, try more difficult toys to keep your bird stimulated.
|