Homemade Bird Aviaries

Pet birds in the parrot family, including cockatiels, cockatoos, and macaws, have very long lifespans and are extremely intelligent animals. Because of this, owners can become quite emotionally attached to their pet birds. One way to increase your bond with your birds is to hand-make an aviary for your pets--a labor of love that will create a structure both you and your birds will enjoy.

  1. Types of Aviaries

    • Depending on your living situation, you can choose to make an indoor or outdoor aviary. Making an indoor aviary is less costly because you don̵7;t have to worry about protecting the birds from the weather, predators, or the possibility of escape. Indoor aviaries can consist of wire mesh and wood, and the floor can be covered with a removable lining.

      Outdoor aviaries, although more expensive and elaborate, can benefit your birds by giving them sunlight and fresh air. Your pets will also enjoy being in a more natural environment. Before beginning an outdoor aviary project, check with your local homeowner̵7;s association and city zoning laws to make sure your structure is permissible.

    Benefits of Aviaries

    • Indoor and outdoor homemade aviaries offer several benefits. As social animals, your birds will be able to interact with each other much better in a large structure. If you have different species, this arrangement will allow them to be housed in one place (assuming they get along).

      For animals that live so long, having access to more space will improve their overall quality of life. Being confined to a small cage for 20, 30, or more years can be detrimental. With added space you can also include more toys and games for intellectual stimulation. Additionally, if the aviary is large enough, your pets will be able to fly. Flying is great exercise and something every bird desires to do.

    Building Your Aviary

    • For both indoor and outdoor aviaries, make sure that the wire and wood you use is safe for birds that may chew on them. If you choose an indoor aviary, you can use a corner or alcove in your home for two or three of the walls. The floor can be covered with linoleum or some other easily removable surface.

      Outdoor aviaries can have concrete or dirt floors, but dirt floors can harbor bacteria and parasites. When building outside, you have to provide shelter from the elements and offer safeguards against various predators. The wire you choose has to be both non-toxic and thick enough so that your species of bird can̵7;t chew through it. You will also need to include a special entryway so your birds don̵7;t escape when you enter it.

      When you make your aviary̵7;s plans, take into consideration the size of your bird(s). The width of your aviary should be two to three times the wingspan, the length should be about six times the bird̵7;s body length, and the height should be approximately four times the bird̵7;s body.