Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hello my Name is James and I have 2 Budgies and a Cockatiel. I plan on giving a more natural feel to her cage when upgrading but wasnt sure on a few things. Here is what I wanted to pick up:

Sand
Food and Water Dishes
Chameleon Climbing Vine
Tree Branch Perches
Assorted Plants

Is sand good to use with birds? I wanted to try something different then ther grate at the bottom of her cage. If its not such a good idea what other bottom would you suggest for a natural look in her cage.

The food and water dishes would lie in the Sand/bedding.

The Vine would be used for activities such as nawing and climbing and it will be used around the house for extra activities.

Tree Branch Perches would give the natural feel of trees.

What plants are safe to use with Cockatiels?

I was also wondering about if those Terranium tanks would be safe to use with birds. Instead of a cage.

This is also going to go for Parakeets, It would be pointless to have 2 threads regarding the same things.

Sand isn't good to use. They could end up ingesting too much which will cause health problems. I use news paper for the bottom of my cages & a grate.

The food & water bowls should be anywhere on th side of the cage or perch where they can't poo in them. About medium level is the usual for the bowls. The tiel should be discouraged from being on the ground amoungst it's own poo & dropped old food.

I don't know about that particular vine, someone else may know. If you google safe/non safe branches & trees you'll find a whole list ones you can use & ones you should avoid. It can also depend on where you are as to what you can get hold of. Untreated pine is always a popular one. I also use eucalyptus, bottlebrush & grevillea.

A cage is more natural & a better choice for any bird. Better air flow, less likely breeding grounds for bacteria.