Astroturf

[Dave Johnson]

Hi all
What size in milimetres is the 'grass' that is used for blocks,shelf perches etc.I ask because there is quite a few different lenghts to choose from,I take it that the astroturf you see at the market drapped along fruit stales is no good,as there is hardly any 'grass' on it.Any advise would be good.Thanks Dave

[Sprout]

The idea of the astroturf is by being fairly high it helps distribute the weight across a birds foot rather than just being a flat surface. You are right in saying sports field or greengrocer astroturf is no good - it is just a level surface. MY astroturf I get from Garlands or Andrew Knomles Brown in Scotland - I haven't measured it but it would be approx 10mm high (maybe slightly more). nThere are cheaper varieties out there than the official ones but they tend to be quite sharp (put the palm of your hand on it and apply pressure!) so not that good. The other thing to remember is they are marketed and designed as dirt trappers - and they do just that, collect all crud lying around so it is always important to regularly clean them.

[Dave Johnson]

Thanks for that sprout,your advise is just what I needed to hear.Cheers Dave

[StormRider]

The best stuff Ive found are the £2.99 mats from Wilkinsons. Good high pile and has a holed base. Cuts good with a stanley and cleans very well with a power washer. The high pile allows a good circulation of air beneath the foot of the bird and with it being slightly more plasticky makes it harder to be pulled apart by the bird. By the way I only use this type on perches and blocks. I use a more grass like type for floor bases. the reason being is that this type is more caring on the feathers of the tail and wings but again is easy to clean.
STU

[Gaz]

http://www.falconryforum.co.uk/showthread.php?t=11322