New swing - now need help

[Lucky Feathers]

I picked up a new swing today for my Congo - they one I had for him was perfectly fine and he used it, however it was boring and I was at the petstore so I decided to pick him up one that might be more fun and interesting.

Everything went well and he used it the "correct" way for a good bit of the evening - however, a little later he discovered that he can actually also perch on the very top of it. Well - yes it is possible there is a spot for his feet, however I have it hanging on the top of my cage with a small chain and there is really only a few inches between the top of the swing and the roof of the cage. He will now only perch on the very top and duck down.

I ignored him for a while thinking he would realized how squashed and uncomfortable he was, but he just wouldn't get down. I would even take him off the top and put him where he belongs many times and he would keep going to the very top. It really isn't much higher.

First of all he looks very uncomfortable and I hate to look at him up there looking like he is stuck, plus I would have for him to actually get stuck, or get scared and flutter around hurting himself so close to all the bars or anything like that.

Has anyone ever had this problem with there bird and this type of swing? Any suggestions? I'm thinking maybe I'm going to have to use his old swing or get a different one. Any thoughts? Here is a pic of the type of swing I am talking about - it is not the same swing, but very close to it.

[ljhassell]

Didnt realize there is a "correct" way for animals to use things. I think it's great and fun to see them explore and play- none of our birds use things correctly all the time, that be sooooooooooooooooooo boring. If you Grey likes to climb and explore why not just let him, he's a bird not a robot.Why not extend the top chain so if he wants to be king of the swing he can without risking injury? Sometimes you need to let them be birds not live in a bubble, something if its going to happen will regardless.

[Lisa B]

not crazy about that swing. the bell isnt grey appropriate. how about a boing?
greys usually LOVE boings!

[Ina246]

I agree with ljhassell you can extend the chain, or maybe shorten it so there is only an inch or so of chain. As long as he is having fun that is really what matters, right?

[babypiggy]

i would extend the chain with stainless steel chain u can get at home depot

and remove the bell and add other toys that is grey safe

[Lucky Feathers]

Hey guys -
Like I said in the first post - the photo is not of the exact swing, but one close to that. The one I have has no bell as it is not the same swing. It also didn't come with a chain just a hook on the top ring which only leaves a few inches of space for him which I do not find safe.

[Lisa B]

the problem with too much exposed chain is the ability to hang themselves by getting their necks caught while playing.

[nmrspindoc]

I don't see any problem with him perched at the top, as long as there is nothing for him to get caught on. I've seen quite a few birds (my own included) crouching on top of something. Maybe he feels more secure? Either way, I wouldn't worry and let him sit on there. =)

[Icednova625]

Nothing I ever have for my birds are used for what the intention would be. The mirror I have behind my grey's cage is for her to wipe food on. The Bells on toys are for her to rip out the dingers and throw them on the floor of her house.

[huntress]

My Cag Loves to sit on anything that is as close to the top as possible requiring him to duck. I finally put a good solid perch all the way up. He has to crouch and hang his head to sleep but THAT is his favorite and ONLY place he will sleep now. If I try to get him from that perch he growls and snaps,LOL. THATS HIS BED AND HE LIKES IT THATAWAY! LOL. Let him be....