Parrots and pine cones

Pine Cones can be an inexpensive toy for your parrot. You can utilize "Wild" (meaning found in the wild and in the local forested areas) Pine Cones for both treats and toys for Parrots.By following the guidelines below you will be able to ensure that you are providing a safe and enjoyable toy for your parrot.

Never use Pine Cones you can buy at stores and the like as they have been chemically treated and this is JUST NOT SAFE.

It is best to gather pine cones that have just recently fallen to the ground and before they become heavily soaked by rain.

Also - be very aware that Pine Cones are often infested with Spiders and Earwigs, and other critters.

• Any Pine Cones you gather up should be put on a COOKIE or PIZZA Tray and placed in the oven at a temperature between 200-220 degrees (220-230 degrees for High Altitudes) for a period of 20-30 minutes. This will help to kill the molds, kill off toxins that can be in associated SAP and also ensure that no bugs or critters are still hanging around. Watch the temperature and make sure you never exceed the recommended heat levels for fear you can burn the pine cones and possibly have them catch on fire.
• Once you have completed the 20-30 minutes in the oven then you need to turn the heat off and LEAVE the PINE CONES in the oven for approximately 2-3 hours to completely dry them out. Please keep an eye on them and check them every 30 minutes for safety reasons.
• Ensure that you let the Pine Cones completely cool and air out in the open.
• Now you can make toys or treats out of them and you'll find that the "seeds" inside are and can be neat and fun treat that is safe to eat for your parrots.