Bird-safe metals: what to avoid and what to look for

What to avoid

Birds chew and lick what is within reach, and they are very sensitive to certain substances. According to avian veterinary sources:

• Zinc: found in galvanised wire, dishes and chain, and in cheap padlocks. It can poison a bird.
• Lead: it can be in the paint of old or poorly sourced cages.
• Copper: wiring and old coins.
• Non-stick coatings (PTFE/Teflon): the fumes released when heated can be fatal to birds, even from pans and appliances such as irons.

What to look for

Avian vets usually recommend stainless steel for bowls, hooks and accessories: it is hard, easy to sanitise and does not flake. Nickel-plated hardware is cited as acceptable, but the plating can wear and expose the base metal.

• Prefer uncoated, unpainted stainless steel.
• Ask the maker which steel it is (for example 304 or 316).
• Be wary of parts that look like stainless but rust or leave residue.

Good habits at home

• Replace galvanised wire and chain with stainless steel parts.
• Keep birds away from the kitchen and from heated non-stick items.
• If you suspect poisoning, see an avian vet immediately.