My first try at making a perch

[T.C.]

This is my first time making a perch. I just wondering what you guys think of it. It measures 8.5" high and the top is 4" across the base is 4.5" across it weights about five pounds. I used leather for the top and leather for the on the bottom as well.

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[Falcon Boy]

Was it a lamp?

[T.C.]

LOL, Sorry I should have been more specific. It is an indoor block perch for a Kestrel. I turned it on a friends lathe. I used aluminum for the main body and it has a brass ring for the leash. Sorry the picture is not the best I will get a better one posted soon.

[ICE]

T.C.
The top (4") might be to big for a kestrel, it might hawk chalk all over the top and then get it all over it's tail. Just a thought.

Ice

[Falcon Boy]

I use a 4" block and my kbird's did poop on them. I used longleaf astroturf connected to the perch with velcro. I'd have to clean it frequently so they aren't standing in poop. I'm not sure how well the leather perching surface will work out. a) because of their habit of pooping on the perch and b) i'm not sure how it will work for the birds feet in general i.e. bumblefoot. I've never tried it, but i have seen perches sold online which use it. I've found the best results with long leaf astroturf (daisy mat) material with all of my birds so far. Short leaf turf hasn't worked well for me personally, some friends use it and like it a lot, but like I said, haven't tried leather before.

[T.C.]

Thanks for the input guy's. I will change the top to turf. I have used leather before and had no problem but it is hard to clean. I have several perches I use and change them out every few days to clean and also the bird have something different to stand on. I feel that helps best with the feet. Cross my fingers I have never had a problem yet.

[echotadog]

the long leaf turf NorthWoods Falconry sells is amazing stuff for foot health , expensive but great .
MY second choice is simple DAISY MAT doormats from Kmart or Walmart , $9 for a 18x30 . No need to change perches when using it , every time they land on it it is a bit different pressure point and allows Air flow under the feet. Cleans with ease , just add water .

[Falcon Boy]

I've also used vinegar/water solution to clean daisy matt and it works well and gets any funky smells out as well.

It must be nice to be able to turn your own block, you can make whatever shape you want without paying 200$ for a perch!

[T.C.]

Thanks for the tips. I try to make all my equipment it is not always the best looking but it works and usually lasts longer . But if you can't try a local school or vocational school that has a metal shop or wood shop. Sometimes they make things for the general public and all you have to pay for is the material itself and the student gets practice as well. I have three wood block perches and a couple of different bow perches and I don't have a hundred in them all together.

[Falcon Boy]

That's a really good idea, I' never thought of that! Thank you!

[zander]

;DThats what I am looking for a good set of 1970's wooden lamps, Flip em over and add astro turf! A decent heavy threaded tube would work to set in the ground.