Bird Perch Size Chart by Species
The right perch size matters as much as the right perch material. A perch that is too small makes the foot curl tightly all day, and one that is too large stops your bird from getting a secure grip. A good working rule: when your bird stands, its toes should wrap roughly two-thirds of the way around the perch.
Quick check: is this perch the right size?
- Too small: the toes wrap all the way around and overlap.
- Too large: the foot sits flat and the toes cannot reach down the sides.
- In between sizes: offer both. Different sizes give the feet variety through the day, which most bird care guides recommend.
Perch size chart by species
Find your bird below, then pick that size in either perch line. Both lines use the same size names, from X-Small to X-Large.
| Your bird | SFB size | Shop |
|---|---|---|
| Budgies (parakeets), parrotlets, lovebirds, finches, canaries | X-Small |
Safety Perch X-Small Safety Pumice Perch X-Small |
| Cockatiels, small conures | Small |
Safety Perch Small Safety Pumice Perch Small |
| Larger conures, Pionus, Timneh greys, mini macaws | Medium |
Safety Perch Medium Safety Pumice Perch Medium |
| African greys, Amazons | Large |
Safety Perch Large Safety Pumice Perch Large |
| Large cockatoos, macaws | X-Large |
Safety Perch X-Large Safety Pumice Perch X-Large |
Not sure where your bird falls? Size up for a bird at the top of its range, and offer both sizes if it sits between two.
We are re-measuring our newest production runs and will add exact diameters to this chart once they are confirmed.
Which perch line?
- Safety Perch: a pedicure perch with a smooth top for tender feet and textured sides that help keep nails filed as your bird climbs.
- Safety Pumice Perch: the same smooth-top idea with natural pumice sides that gently file nails and give the beak a place to wipe and condition.
Either one works best as one of several perches in the cage, not the only one. Browse all bird perches.
How to set up a cage with multiple perches
- One pedicure-style perch at a daytime standing height.
- One natural-feel perch at a different height and size.
- One swing or rocker for play and balance (see our bird swings).
- Foraging and shredding toys at varied heights so your bird moves between them.
Place perches so droppings do not land in food or water dishes, and so your bird has room to flap without hitting the cage bars.
Need help choosing?
Email info@sweetfeetandbeak.com with your bird's species and a photo of your setup, and we will help you pick a size.
Related guides
- Bird Nail Trimming Perches: What to Know Before You Choose
- How to Tell If Your Bird's Nails Are Too Long
FAQ
What size perch does my bird need?
Match the size to your bird. X-Small suits budgies, parrotlets, lovebirds and finches; Small suits cockatiels and small conures; Medium suits larger conures, Pionus, Timneh greys and mini macaws; Large suits African greys and Amazons; X-Large suits large cockatoos and macaws.
How do I know if a perch is too small?
If your bird's toes wrap all the way around and overlap, the perch is too small. Aim for the toes reaching roughly two-thirds of the way around.
Should every perch in the cage be the same size?
No. Offering a few different sizes and textures gives the feet variety through the day.
Where should a pedicure perch go in the cage?
Where your bird likes to stand and grip during the day, not at the very top where it sleeps. The highest perch usually becomes the sleeping spot, and a smoother perch belongs there.