Parrots need quality toys to maintain good physical condition and psychological health. Through the years toys and products for the large macaw have grown in variety and availability yet still there are some that are either unsafe or not appropriate in their design.

Here at Hyacinth Haven we are selective about the toys we offer our hyacinths to play with. We look for quality toys, made from non-toxic materials, designed with parrot safety as a priority. We also like to try toys that come highly recommended by other large macaw owners.

It is important to not leave any parrot unattended with toys that can fray or come undone leaving strands of materials that a parrot can become tangled in or hang themselves with. We have heard many tragic stories about people coming home to find their bird injured or hanging dead in the cage due to rope toys and other similar toys that unravel.

Another problem are toys that are not the appropriate size for the parrot playing with it. Small plastic balls can be swallowed or choked on, a parrot’s head can become stuck in ring toys, feet can slip into gaps and chain openings. Examine every toy and scrutinize it carefully for its potential to cause harm to your parrot.

There are still toys on the market that are made of toxic materials and one must look closely to discover if a toy is free of toxic parts. Zinc, lead and some other metals can cause illness and death to a parrot. Be sure you know exactly what the toys you are buying are made of.