How to Make an Aviary for a Cockatiel

Cockatiels were first discovered in Australia in 1770, but didn't become popular until the 20th century. With approximately 340 species, the popularity of cockatiels as pets is second only to the Budgie. Cockatiels have a life span ranging from 15 to 20 years and are highly social birds that require plenty of attention. In the wild, cockatiels are ground feeders, so an aviary that is wider as apposed to taller is preferable. You can build your own cockatiel aviary using items found at most hardware stores.

Things You'll Need

  • 2-by-4's
  • Galvanized nails
  • Hammer
  • 1/4-inch wire mesh
  • Galvanized staples
  • Staple gun
  • 2 metal hinges
  • Hook and eye
  • Electric drill
  • Small pilot hole drill bit
  • Newspaper
  • Perches
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clear a space in a well used area of the home, preferably a corner of a living or dining room.

    • 2

      Construct four equal size frames using 2-by-4's and galvanized nails. The size and number of birds will determine the height and width of the frames. A good rule of thumb is that a single cockatiel will need at least 14 inches of width to accommodate wing span and at least 16 inches of height to fly from perch to perch.

    • 3

      Wrap each panel in 1 /4-inch wire mesh. The finished side will be the outside of the panel. Secure the mesh to the inside of the frame using a staple gun and galvanized staples. Make a small cut on each corner so the mesh wraps neatly around corners.

    • 4

      Place one panel against a wall or lay it down on a flat surface, finished side out. Construct the first three walls of the aviary by aligning the long ends of the panels and securing them with a hammer and galvanized nails. This will make a three sided box.

    • 5

      Install two metal hinges about two inches from the top and bottom of the fourth panel. Align the hinged panel to the open side of the three sided box. Secure the top hole of each hinge to the frame of the box. Test it to make sure it closes properly. Make adjustments if necessary, then secure the remaining holes.

    • 6

      Install a locking mechanism to the unhinged side of the door. A hook and eye is simple. Use a small pilot bit and an electric screwdriver to make pilot holes in both the frame and door, then screw the hook into the door and the eye into the frame.

    • 7

      Staple wire mesh over the top of the aviary using galvanized staples. If the wire mesh is not wide enough to cover the entire aviary, overlap each section at least 4 inches.

    • 8

      Place the aviary in the desired location. Use newspapers to line the bottom. Install perches at varying heights, then release your cockatiels into their new home.