>I have my chain saw, axe and goggles ready. I want to make some toys
>and perches for Sparky! What kind of tree(s) should I cut down to make
>these toys and perches. I know there MUST be some kind to stay away
>from. Are there any prefered ones? Oh, how may trees should I cut down
>if I want to make two or three perches? Thanks, George
TreeS? I think maybe you're overdoing it a bit. 
    ^
Unless you plan to make an Olympic sized playgym, I think a few BRANCHES
will suffice. Apple, maple, willow, are all good, commonly found trees.
I use willow mostly. It's fun for them to chew, and easily replaced.
Just be careful that the tree you choose hasn't been sprayed with
pesticides, and that it isn't right next to a road where exhaust residue
has been settling on it for years.
When you cut your branches, cut them to size, then wash them thoroughly
with hot water and bleach, (10% bleach, 90% water). RINSE WELL until you
can't smell the bleach on the wood. Then put them in the oven on 250
degrees for about a half hour. This will dry them, AND kill any insect
larva that are in the wood. Warning, it will stink up your house BADLY!
Somewhere here I have a list of safe woods; if I can find it in this
poor sick computer, I'll try to post it out here. But don't hold your
breath--this thing is on it's last legs, I fear.
--Kathy
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