Things You'll Need
- 4- by 4-inch pressure-treated lumber
- 2- by 4-inch lumber
- 1- by 1/2-inch stainless steel mesh
- Shovel
- Hammer
- Nails
- Staple gun
- Door hinges
- Flush door bolt
Instructions
Choose a location that is somewhat sheltered by a building or wall to help reduce drafts and provide some natural shade throughout the day. The location should ideally receive filtered sunlight, have good drainage and be close to a hose hookup for convenience at cleaning time.
Determine the foundation that will be used for the cage. A 4-inch poured concrete slab will eliminate any predators from entering at ground level and is also easy to clean, but can be expensive, since a contractor will most likely have to be enlisted. Other good options include gravel or paving stones, which offer some of the security of concrete without the need to hire additional help.
Sink 4- by 4-inch pressure-treated lumber posts at least 1 foot into the ground at 3- to 4-foot intervals around the perimeter of the flight cage area. Any portion of post that will be beneath ground level should be sealed with a coat or two of non-toxic wood preservative to prevent rot.
Measure the full length of each side of the aviary; remove 1 1/2 inches from the measurement of each side to allow for overlap, since the boards will be attached to the inside of the frame and cut the 2- by 4-inch lumber to the proper size. Nail each 2 by 4 in place around the interior side of the vertical posts, creating a square around the top of the flight cage.
Cut panels of stainless steel mesh to fit the sides of the cage and firmly attach in place with a staple gun equipped with 1/2-inch steel roofing staples, inserted every 6 to 12 inches along the frame. Make sure to leave one 3- to 4-foot section open to allow for the door.
Create the door frame by making a square from 2- by 4-inch lumber and stretching an additional piece of steel mesh to fit.
Attach the door to the flight cage with stainless steel door hinges and secure the opening with a flush door bolt.