Homemade Macaw Cage

Macaws are some of the most beautiful large parrots kept as pets, and their owners know how intelligent these animals are. Given their size and their intellect, it makes sense to give your pet the largest cage possible, but buying a pre-made cage can be costly. Fortunately, it̵7;s quite possible to build your own macaw cage.

  1. Preparation

    • Before making plans for your cage, determine how much space you have available. If possible, plan to build an aviary that̵7;s at least 12 feet long, 6 feet wide and 8 feet high. An even bigger aviary is more desirable to allow the bird to fly, and get plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Smaller cages should be at least 40 inches wide, 40 inches long and 48 inches high.

      Do a lot of research before buying your materials. You will need a good building plan, and if you are making an outdoor aviary or extensive indoor structure you may need permission from local authorities.

    Materials

    • Macaws have extremely strong beaks, so make sure you use sturdy wire for your enclosure. The best type is zinc and lead-free (both substances are poisonous for these chewing birds). The wire mesh should be 10-gauge in strength. You will also need natural, untreated wood for the frame. Additionally, your macaw will need lots of natural branches for perches, and these will need to be replaced from time to time.

    Essentials

    • The floor of a small cage should have two bottoms so the bird doesn̵7;t have to stand on its waste. The second bottom is often a pullout tray. Large aviaries can have concrete flooring covered with a smooth linoleum for easy cleaning.

    Considerations

    • If you plan to house more than one bird in the cage, do some research first to make sure their temperaments work well together. A bad match could have deadly results.

      Even if you plan to have an indoor cage or aviary, it̵7;s a good idea for there to be a window available. Being able to see the outdoors will give your bird something more interesting to look at besides walls. Safe plants inside a large structure will be a welcome addition as well.

      If you build a smaller enclosure, consider letting your bird spend most of its day outside of the cage. Because of their intelligence, being confined to a small cage can cause a host of behavioral problems. Build the largest cage or aviary you can, given your money and space allowances.