Singing Soft-toys (1 Viewer)

[SemolinaPilchard]

I really like the RSPB's singing soft birds and have been thinking about getting some for my young daughters to help introduce them to birdsong. However, whenever I look at them in the shops, the batteries have already gone in a load of them already and there doesn't seem to be anyway to 'open 'em up' and change the batteries (or whatever device is inside).
Has anyone got these and managed to change the battery? Or is it case of 'just go out and buy a new one'? As much as I want to help the RSPB, I don't want to have this 'throw away' attitude either.

 

[Patrick_L]

Not sure if there's a difference between the quality of the Canadian and UK versions of these toys, SP, but my Golden-winged Warbler, brought back from Canada 5 years ago, sings on loud and clear.

 

[Marmot]

Might be better to get them direct from RSPB direct rather than the shops at least that way they have had minimum handling. I think it is just luck on how long the batteries last as we have 2 that were sent from the US about 4 years ago, the Goldfinch is still whistling but the Blue Grosbeak stopped about a year ago.

 

[Nightranger]

I really like the RSPB's singing soft birds and have been thinking about getting some for my young daughters to help introduce them to birdsong. However, whenever I look at them in the shops, the batteries have already gone in a load of them already and there doesn't seem to be anyway to 'open 'em up' and change the batteries (or whatever device is inside).
Has anyone got these and managed to change the battery? Or is it case of 'just go out and buy a new one'? As much as I want to help the RSPB, I don't want to have this 'throw away' attitude either.

My goldfinch is working fine after more than four years but I have heard of failures and even rare occasions when someone has successfully opened the toy up and replaced the battery. As Marmot says, it is probably better to buy directly from an RSPB shop and then you have a chance of obtaining a replacement assuming the circumstances are appropriate.

 

[SemolinaPilchard]

Thanks for your replies (was beginning to feel a bit 'Mumsy' making silly comments about singing toys and not serious comments about the latest rarity).
Excellent idea, getting them mail order. I don't usually bother because I avoid paying the p&p and can get RSPB stuff direct from Minsmere, but think I'll order some in future!
Thanks again!