Creative Ways to House Large Birds

To keep a large bird healthy, happy and handsome, a cage must be large enough for the bird to flap its wings, swing its tail feathers to preen and crawl around for exercise. Some breeds of large birds have 500 pounds of pressure in their bite and will destroy your home if they are not contained. Therefore, large birds need extra-strong housing. Also, when deciding on a location for housing large birds, consider your neighbors, because when a large bird screams, the whole neighborhood hears it.

  1. Acrylic Birdcage

    • Your bird will look beautiful in an acrylic cage.

      Acrylic cages are a newer type of bird housing that give the illusion that your bird is free roaming. Although expensive, a big acrylic cage is ideal for a large bird. This type of housing will muffle your bird's squawks and your carpet will stay clean. An acrylic cage is virtually indestructible--and the solid acrylic walls make it impossible for your bird to bite holes in you or your clothing as you walk by.

    Screened Porch

    • Birds love to chew.

      Section off a portion of your screened-in porch and turn it into your bird's living quarters. Place a cage on the porch or build a cage out of wood and wire mesh. This option allows your bird to feel like it is living in the wild yet keeps the bird safe from predators. Keeping your large bird outside also helps reduce odors in your home.

    Garden Aviary

    • Consider outdoor housing for large birds.

      Build a freestanding aviary in your yard. An aviary should have a sheltered area to keep your bird out of wind and rain and a larger flight area for exercise. You can build a sturdy frame out of wood, but be sure to fully cover it with wire mesh--birds will shred any exposed lumber.

    Gazebo

    • A gazebo is plenty big enough to house big birds.

      To add a splash of color to your yard, and to make your large bird happy, house it outside in a gazebo. You can place a traditional cage inside the gazebo or use the actual gazebo for the housing frame: cover any openings with thick wire mesh, put in a door and top it off by placing a large freestanding perch inside.