Aussie Finch Forum

Hi everyone,
There are some lavender plants near where my son is about to build a new aviary. If they grow large enough then the branches will go into the aviary. Is this safe for the finches or should we move the lavender before construction? I cannot find anything about whether lavender leaves or flowers are safe for birds.
Many thanks,
Cathy

I would move them before construction.If you have 12.5mm bird wire,the mice will be able to climb up the lavender and squeeze through the wire to get inside the aviary.You don't really want any plants on the outside that can give mice access.

Thanks for advice, I do understand that however apparently mice hate the smell of lavender so tend to avoid areas that they are planted. Or so I have heard. I was concerned about their toxicity of the plant and whether it would make the birds sick or not. Does anyone know if that is the case?

I doubt if it is toxic. Also I am of the opinion that it is a relative of Chia.
Personally I would worry too much

Lavender is fine for finches.

Mice don't waste their time climbing plants to get into an aviary, they just squeeze through the gaps around the bottom or climb the wire and find a hole they think they can get through.

Ah but if all the gaps and holes have been carefully avoided in the first place the mice will have to climb plants. Hence the concern.
LML

Yes and if there is a mouse-rat wall in place,they won't hesitate to climb plants to gain access.