The phrase “pet bird” instantly calls to mind the classic image of a bird perched on a swing, and for good reason: Swings help keep pet birds entertained and happy by engaging them in activities that appeal to their natural instincts. Birds with clipped wings can almost feel like they’re flying when rocking back and forth on a swing. Regardless of whether your bird can fly or not, a swing allows your feathered friend to get a bird’s-eye view of its world.
A top pick, the CooShou Natural Wood Swing with Bells is a two-piece set constructed of bird-safe natural pineapple wood. The attractive crescent moon and falcate designs blend in with any home decor and will keep your bird busy for hours.
What to know before buying a bird swing
Bird swing safety
No swing is worth risking your pet bird’s life. Examine the swing carefully before placing it inside your birdcage. Make sure it doesn’t have a chemical smell or any paint that your bird could remove. Additionally, avoid small parts that your bird could break off.
Bird swing size
A swing won’t do your pet bird much good if it isn’t a comfortable place to perch. If you’re shopping in a store, check the measurements of a swing to compare it to the size of your bird. If you’re shopping online, you’ll have to rely on the dimensions provided in the product listing. Your bird should have plenty of head room, and its feet should be able to wrap around the perch.
Remove damaged bird swings from cages
Birds have an instinctual desire to chew, and some species have incredibly powerful beaks. Cracking and splintering wood is child’s play for them. Even if your pet bird doesn’t have a strong beak, it can still inflict minor damage that adds up over time. That’s why it’s important to frequently examine all the items in your birdcage, including swings, and remove anything that’s damaged.
Bird swing features
Materials
Birds have a highly sensitive respiratory system, which makes them susceptible to harmful side effects when they’re exposed to chemical smells. Choosing swings made of untreated, bird-safe materials, like all-natural wood, is critical for the health and safety of your pet bird.
Suspension
Stick to chains made from stainless steel, rather than plastic or heavy metals like zinc and iron, and check the chains for oxidation and wear on a regular basis. You can also find swings that are suspended from oil- and pesticide-free natural rope like sisal or jute. Vegetable tanned leather is another safe material for suspending bird swings.
Colors
Birds are drawn to color, so a swing in bright hues will draw their interest. However, paint is toxic to birds, and plastic could harm them if they swallow it. Instead, choose swings constructed of untreated wood and colored using vegetable dyes.
Bird swing cost
As with many other products for pet birds, size is a determining factor of the price. In most cases, larger bird swings cost more than their smaller counterparts. Taking all sizes into account, the price range for bird swings is $5-$35.
Bird swing FAQ
Why should I buy a swing for my bird?
A. Birds, especially species like parrots, are extremely interactive with the members of their flock. As a bird parent, you’re now part of the flock. When you can’t give your pet bird the attention it needs, a swing is an excellent substitute. Birds can set a swing in motion and almost feel like they’re flying. They can chew on it (make sure it’s composed of bird-safe materials), perch on it and hang upside-down from it. Swings also help your bird exercise its leg and chest muscles, as well as its wings. Getting this exercise is particularly important for your bird’s joints because it helps prevent arthritis.
What should I look for in a bird swing?
A. Safety and functionality are the two most important qualities you should seek in a bird swing. First and foremost, the materials should be bird-safe, meaning they’re not treated with chemicals, and there are no small parts your bird could dislodge and get stuck in its throat. Second, the swing must be functional. It should be the right size and thickness for your bird to use it comfortably.
Which bird swing should I get?
Best of the best bird swing
CooShou Natural Wood Swing with Bells: available at Amazon
Our take: The nicely designed crescent moon and falcate shapes give these swings style, while the natural pineapple wood is safe for your bird to chew.
What we like: The materials used to construct the swings, which are sold in a set of two, are bird-safe. Your bird will be attracted to the bright colors of the beads and the ringing sound of the bells. The swinging motion will help your bird develop better balance and coordination. At 5.9 inches long, these swings are the ideal size for many small birds.
What we dislike: A few buyers reported that one of the two swings was broken upon arrival. Additionally, the swings are too small for medium or large birds.
Best bang for your buck bird swing
HONBAY Wooden Bird Swing Perch: available at Amazon
Our take: Shiny gold bells and colorful wood beads will draw your bird’s interest, while the natural wood body of the swing gives it a safe place to perch.
What we like: The multicolored natural wood beads around the top of the swing give your bird something to chew that won’t hurt it. Two gold bells hang from the perch, which is also constructed of natural wood. The included metal hook makes hanging this swing from your birdcage a breeze.
What we dislike: Measuring 5.31 inches by 5.9 inches, this swing is suitable only for very small birds. At least one buyer said their bird couldn’t wrap its feet around the perch due to the thickness.
Honorable mention bird swing
Vktech Hammock Wood Swing: available at Amazon
Our take: This hammock-style swing gives your bird a wide surface for perching, moving around or sleeping.
What we like: Wood beads connect multiple wood perches, all of which get their vivid colors from nontoxic food coloring, so your bird can safely gnaw to its heart’s content. Your bird has plenty of space to be active or rest on this swing.
What we dislike: A couple of buyers reported that their small birds got one foot tangled in the chain links, and at least one buyer said the swing tends to flip over due to the length of the chains.
Megan Oster is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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