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Essential Oils
Many pleasant fragrances used in our homes can be deadly to our feathered companions. Among these are: scented candles, plug-in air fresheners, deodorizing sprays, and even some unscented candles (containing lead wicks). Many of these products contain essential oils, which have been known to cause damage to the central nervous system through either stimulation or depression. They can also cause eye, nose, and respiratory tract irritation. Since birds are very sensitive and susceptible to airborne toxins, use of any of these items can cause severe respiratory problems, and, in many cases, death.
An excellent article on the dangers of scented candles can be found at http://www.birdlink.com/Info/candle.html. It was written by Monica Sudds, CAS (certified avian specialist), president of the Beakers Parrot Society, and also serving as the Iowas State Coordinator for the American Federation of Aviculture.
Other dangerous fumes can be generated by items such as newly installed carpet, new wall panelling, use of glue guns, or any strong smelling aerosol chemicals such as cleaners and deodorizers. Other dangers include overheated pots and pans, many of which are coated with Teflon, which release extremely toxic fumes. Even car deodorizers can be extremely dangerous to birds, and should never be used when a bird is going to be in a car.
Another good article can be found at the Parrot Parrot website: http://www.parrotparrot.com/articles/aa060900.htm.
Safe Alternatives
There are a number of ways that you can freshen the air in the home without endangering your birds. Some suggestions from our members include:
- A cotton ball soaked in either vanilla extract or pure orange extract and hung out of the birds' reach
- Lemon oil or a whole lemon cut up (including skin) and simmered in a potpourri pot
- An orange, studded with cloves and heated in a potpourri pot
- And another potpourri recipe:
3-4 cinnamon sticks
1/4c whole cloves
3-4 bay leaves
1 orange (quartered)
1 lemon (quartered)
1 quart water
Combine in pot, bring to boil, then simmer. May be stored in refrigerator and added as needed to potpourri pot. |
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