Aria From A Birdcage

Canaries love swings, and I make sure there is at least one in every cage.  When a canary jumps onto a swing, it sways like a tree branch would in the wild, helping the canary to learn balance and keeping them fit.  It's great exercise for them. 

Swings are much less expensive to make yourself than to buy from a pet store, plus every time you see your birds hop up into one of "your" swings, you will get a feeling of appreciation... that they are enjoying something you did especially for them.

If you want to draw out your own design, keep it simple.  You may be tempted to bend the wire in decorative or elaborate curls, but remember small toes can get caught in sharp angles and loops.  Use heavy florist's wire and dowel sticks.   For plans and instructions on how to make your own swing, click the button below the photo of the swing.

Canaries don't really need toys to keep themselves occupied.  If you must place a toy in the cage, make sure it does NOT have a mirror on it.  Canaries are very territorial, and they may think their reflection is another bird in their domain.

For times that you have your birds together in flight cages, there is value in making a few tassels of brightly colored cotton crochet thread to give them something to pull at besides their cagemate's feathers.