Assume the beak needs a job
Chewing, shredding, peeling, and testing objects are normal for many birds. A bird with no safe chewing work will often invent its own project.
Rotate simple safe materials
Use bird-safe wood, paper, cardboard, palm, vine, cork, and species-appropriate chew toys. Rotate a few at a time so the cage stays usable instead of crowded.
Bird-proof before out-of-cage time
Cover or remove cords, toxic plants, candles, open water, small swallowable objects, unsafe metals, lead paint, sharp edges, and anything you cannot supervise.
Redirect early, not after the crime scene
Move the bird to a play stand, offer a safe chew, or cue a station before the bird locks onto furniture or trim. Reward the safe choice right away.
Watch for boredom and anxiety patterns
Chewing that spikes when the bird is ignored, overtired, underworked, or left in a dull cage is not random. Improve sleep, foraging, movement, and daily attention.