SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/bird-electrical-cords

Why must electrical cords be hidden from a parrot's beak?

Chewing a live cord can cause electrocution.

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  1. Cords change feather color
  2. Chewed cords can electrocute birds ✔
  3. Cords make birds forget words

Why: Parrots explore and chew with powerful beaks. Merck warns that birds can be electrocuted when they chew electrical cords, so unplug and block access.

Huh, didn't know that: The same Merck list warns that birds can get stuck on insect and rodent glue traps.

The dad joke
Why did the parrot leave the cord alone? It was shocked by the safety lecture.
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References

Answer: Chewed cords can electrocute birds. Parrots explore and chew with powerful beaks. Merck warns that birds can be electrocuted when they chew electrical cords, so unplug and block access.

  1. Merck Veterinary Manual, Household Hazards for Pet Birds www.merckvetmanual.com/bird-owners/routine-care-and-safety-of-birds/household-hazards-for-pet-birds
    Electrical cords: Birds chew on cords and can be electrocuted.
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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