FINCHforum

I'm trying to get my cage set up and am looking to get some greenery for it to help make a more natural setting for them as well as provide the birds some privacy, space division, etc.. I have read all the posts about fake vs real, plastic vs silk, etc., and I plan to use artificial vines for the cage. I have a question that I haven't seen asked or answered before, but I might have just missed it.

Are there certain pros or cons about using 'plain' vs 'fancy' vines? By 'plain' I mean vines of just leaves and by 'fancy' I mean vines that have leaves and flowers. Is one type prefered or better for the birds?

The reason I'm asking is that I already have a flowered (roses & leaves) vine that I can use for the cage, but I would have to go get just plain leaf ones if that's what I need.

Thanks in advance for the help with this.

Mary R.

I think that is just a personal preference. Cindy has used artificial flowers in her cages with no problem at all, others use just the greenery. Especially when the cages/aviary are in a prominent place in your home, you want it to look pretty, as well as be a good home for the birds.

I would just say not to use any artificial plants with fake berries on them, in case the birds eat them!

It is personal but I have found (because of poop issues) that vines with a little bit larger leaves are easier to clean... just a thought!

Mary-
I recently went through a similar decision-making process, as I am setting up new larger cages for my zebras and their new babies. I pondered the selection of artificial stuff at Joann fabrics for a long time. I eventually decided on some of the floral/leaf combination garlands for 2 reasons: 1- most of the ivy type garlands seemed to be made of a weird plasticy paper material, not silk at all. I'm not sure if it's just my area, but you may have trouble finding the right stuff if you do go with just leaves. And 2- I chose some that had some nice large colorful flowers (daisies and sunflowers) because I thought it might give them some an opportunity for a little more privacy, since they are in my living room.
I may add some ivy too, if I can find some better ones somewhere. My birds aren't in there new homes yet, but I'm very anxious to know how the react to their new decorations!
Keep us posted on how yours work out too!

I tend to use just green leaf vines - for two reasons.

The leaves are easier to clean and the birds tend not to pick at them. I've used some with flowers in the past and the flowers fray over time and most come with little pieces the birds can pick off.

I really like the bamboo looking vine that comes in plastic - very easy to clean and last a long time.

One other thing about the green vines is that over time the leafs come unglued when washing or soaking in hot water.

You could use the cheap kind and just replace.

I try to use the ones from dollar store and just replace when needed ,try to keep out of poop range

Hmm...poop issues does affect the decision, doesn't it? lol

Thanks for the input. I'll definitely take the cleaning issues into consideration. The thought of just doing Dollar Store and replacing when needed seems like a good way to go. I'll have to check out what vines my local Dollar Store has on hand. I don't recall seeing anything there but flower bouquets.

I plan to post pictures when I get it all together, before getting the birds, so I can make adjustments where needed if people suggest something needs to change.

Thanks again,

Mary R.

This is just my two cents on the subject...
Personally,I only use greens in my aviary.
They provide cover/hiding places and the birds colors
really stand out against them.
I feel that the flowers sortof compete with the
birds for "attention."
it's definitely a matter of personal preference...
Tim

MLaRue wrote:I really like the bamboo looking vine that comes in plastic - very easy to clean and last a long time.

Misty, where did you find this vine--sounds like it would look nice.

Sally wrote:

MLaRue wrote:I really like the bamboo looking vine that comes in plastic - very easy to clean and last a long time.

Misty, where did you find this vine--sounds like it would look nice.

Michaels - only them and I've looked everywhere for different things.

Hmm...I'll have to check out Michael's too...I have one near me. Those bamboo vines sound interesting.

Mary R.

They are gorgeous IMO for plastic - but then I like bamboo leaves I think they are simple and elegant ;)

dollar store all the way! I went to JoAnne fabrics they were 12 bucks! They were a little bit nicer quality but, I choose the 4 dollar option not the $48

B CAMP wrote:I try to use the ones from dollar store and just replace when needed ,try to keep out of poop range

thats my way