House keys as toys

[auntphibian]

I've seen our zoo using keys as toys for the birds. I asked if they weren't concerned about the birds chewing on them, as I thought they were toxic, but I couldn't remember. I know I've seen it somewhere, but can't find it now.....

Can anyone tell me if house/car keys are toxic to birds and why, so I can pass it on to them.

Thanks

[she]

I dont let mine play with keys because of possable risk of metal poisoning.I am not really sure if thats the case but prefere not to take the risk.

[Char]

I don't let my birds chew on any questionable metals including keys.

[Talon]

I agree with Char. B)

[lovethatgrey]

I definitely wouldn't let my parrots play with my keys. They are also VERY dirty.{Feel-good-00020114}<br><br>Post edited by: lovethatgrey, at: 2009/10/11 21:13

[Luvparrots]

Nope, no keys for my kids or fids!

[danmcq]

All VERY wise comments reagrding car and house keys. Most keys are a base of brass (copper + zinc = VERY BAD for birds)) then plated with other alloys, older ones even have amounts of lead in them.

[judygram]

Nope no keys here either unless its the plastic baby keys.