A question for retret ...

[Amanda]

Hi. I want to make a big playstand for Rio and am wondering what wood you used to make Dexter's playstand. I found an apple tree branch from the farm last weekend. I've cleaned it already and am almost ready to attach it to a portable table I bought, but the branches are too skinny. I like the look of Dexter's playstand.

[retret]

the one that I purchased already cleaned and I just screw it to the board..what you're doing is a cheapest way and more logical way because you can always replace it when its worn out..IMO make sure that you dry the branch so no bacteria or molds develops..

[Amanda]

Thanks retret. I am going to make the playstand with the apple tree branch that I have because I don't think they sell those kind of branches/wood at the stores here.

Dexter's really looks great!

[dlaura]

Amanda,
I was told that if using a branch from outside that we need to be careful of parasites that are living in the branch which we are unable to see - but which could harm our birds.

I was advised to heat the branch at a very low temp. in the oven for 24 hrs. This would kill anything that might be living inside the branch.

I did not use an outside branch - had just got new oven and just couldn't use oven for that.

[Amanda]

I couldn't put the branch in the oven because it is quite big ... 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide (from one tip of a branch on the left side to the tip of another branch on the right side). I soaked it in bleach/water solution for 12 hours and then let it sit in clean water for another 12 (to rinse whatever bleach/solution). Then I just let it dry naturally.

It's a good size branch for Rio ... only the branches are not big enough for her grip.

[dlaura]

Hi Amanda,
Sounds as if you found another way to sterilize the branch. That is great! Just wanted to cover that base - in case you had not thought of it.

Diane