Pictures Is red spruce supposed to look like this

[LilSprout]

I have a red Spruce tree in my backyard that we never do anything to, I chopped down a large branch to turn into a perch for Charlie and noticed... stuff on it

Is this moss or some type of fungas? Can I scrape it off or something or is this branch just going to be trash?
Additionally are the needles from the tree safe for chewing on?

 

[Tiel Feathers]

That's lichen and moss. I don't know if they are okay for birds or not, but I probably wouldn't use it.

 

[LilSprout]

That's lichen and moss. I don't know if they are okay for birds or not, but I probably wouldn't use it.

Think I could peel off all the bark and only leave the wood?

 

[Tiel Feathers]

Yes, that would probably be okay. Here is a link that might give you more information:
Wood / Trees / Bushes Considered Safe for Birds | Beauty of Birds