A large cage or enclosure designed to house birds is commonly referred to as an aviary. Aviaries come in many shapes and sizes, but generally provide birds with ample space to fly around and engage in natural behaviors.
What is the purpose of an aviary?
There are several reasons why people construct aviaries for birds:
- To keep pet birds in an enclosed, safe environment where they can fly freely
- To breed birds and raise young in a controlled setting
- To rehabilitate injured wild birds until they can be released
- To display exotic bird species in zoos and other facilities
- For research purposes to study birds’ behaviors, social interactions, mating habits, etc.
A properly designed aviary allows birds to engage in natural activities like flying, climbing, nesting, and foraging that they would perform in the wild. At the same time, the enclosure protects birds from predators and contains them safely.
What are the typical features of an aviary?
While aviaries come in many different shapes, sizes and styles, most include the following features:
- Ample vertical and horizontal space – Height is important to allow flying, while width/length offers room to hop and move about on the ground.
- Mesh enclosure – Made of steel, aluminum or heavy-duty nylon mesh to prevent escape.
- Roof – Often partially solid and partially wire mesh to provide shelter and prevent escape.
- Nest boxes – For breeding birds to lay eggs and raise young.
- Perches – For birds to comfortably stand/sleep on at different heights.
- Fresh food and water – Dispensers to supply birds with their dietary needs.
- Shelter – Hiding spots and nesting areas to make birds feel secure.
- Enrichment – Branches, ropes, swings, etc. to engage natural behaviors.
The specific size, materials, and furnishings may vary depending on the species being kept and the aviary’s purpose. An indoor aviary for pet birds may be relatively small, while a zoo flight cage for eagles may be enormous.
What are some common types of aviaries?
There are many different aviary designs, but some common configurations include:
Dome Aviaries
A wire mesh dome that provides maximum height and flight space overhead. Birds access the ground through openings around the bottom perimeter.
Rectangular Aviaries
Simple box-shaped enclosures with a roof that allow keepers to easily access the birds from the side openings.
Hexagonal Aviaries
Aviaries with six equal sides that create a “hub and spoke” flight pattern for the birds inside. Popular for finches.
Walk-in Aviaries
Large enclosures that keepers can enter, often with a lockable door. Allows direct interaction with birds.
Outdoor Aviaries
Open-air aviaries exposed to natural light and airflow. Must have shade and shelter to protect birds.
Flight Cages
Extra long aviaries that allow birds to take sustained flights back and forth between perches. Used for raptors.
What size aviary do I need?
The recommended aviary size depends on the type and number of birds it will house. Some general aviary size guidelines:
Bird Type | Minimum Size |
---|---|
Finches, canaries | 24″ W x 16″ D x 16″ H per pair |
Parakeets, cockatiels | 24″ W x 24″ D x 24″ H per pair |
Lovebirds, conures | 36″ W x 24″ D x 36″ H per pair |
Macaws, amazons | 6′ W x 3′ D x 6′ H minimum per pair |
Raptors, eagles | 8′ W x 8′ D x 8′ H minimum per bird |
Bigger is always better when it comes to aviaries. Opt for the largest enclosure size possible, and add extra vertical height.
What materials are best for building an aviary?
The optimal aviary construction materials are:
- Aluminum: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, easy to clean. Expensive upfront.
- Welded wire: Steel or galvanized welded wire is sturdy and affordable. Prone to rust over time.
- Wood: Looks nice but requires sealing and frequent upkeep to prevent rotting. Not chew-proof.
- ABS plastic: Weather-resistant, chew-proof panels good for modular designs. Can get brittle over time.
- Mesh: Steel, nylon or vinyl-coated fiberglass screening resists damage. Must be kept taut.
The right aviary material depends on your climate, budget, bird species and longevity goals. Do your research to select materials that will stand the test of time and keep birds safe.
Where should I locate an outdoor aviary?
Factors to consider when choosing an outdoor aviary location include:
- Shelter – Pick a protected, wind-blocked area of your yard.
- Sunlight – Birds need sun for natural lighting and vitamin D. Avoid too much shade.
- Climate control – Consider a location that lets you heat/cool aviary in extreme weather.
- Visibility – Select a spot where you can easily observe your birds.
- Access – Ensure you can reach the aviary to clean and maintain it.
- Drainage – Choose high ground to prevent flooding and muddy conditions.
- Predators – Don’t position aviary near trees/roofs where predators can gain access.
- Noise – Pick a quieter area away from street sounds, machinery, etc.
Ideally position your outdoor aviary with protection from prevailing winds and intense midday sun. Provide good drainage and don’t allow predators access from above or below.
What safety measures should be taken with aviaries?
Some important aviary safety practices include:
- Use lockable gates/doors to prevent unintended openings or escapes.
- Line the bottom perimeter with wire mesh or dig barriers to stop digging predators.
- Install misting systems and fans to prevent overheating in sunny locations.
- Slope the roof to prevent rainwater pooling and excess snow weight.
- Use metal flashing strips to seal gaps, corners and vents against predators.
- Place water sources on stands to discourage rodents from entering.
- Use screw-in feeder cups to prevent spilled seed from attracting pests.
- Include emergency perches and shelter areas for bad weather conditions.
- Routinely check for damage and make repairs to maintain enclosure integrity.
Never house predators like cats or raccoons nearby an aviary, and be vigilant about addressing any openings or weaknesses that could allow access.
What accessories and enrichment should I provide?
Equipping your aviary with the right accessories and enrichment items will help keep your birds healthy and engaged. Recommended aviary enrichments include:
- Natural branches and logs – For perching, climbing and shredding bark
- Swings, ropes and ladders – Allow dynamic flying and exercise
- Bells and toys – Visual and noise stimulation
- Running water – Attracts birds to bathe and drink
- Sprinklers and misters – For cooling and feather conditioning
- Nest boxes – For shelter and breeding activities
- Various perch types – Support foot health and exercise
Rotate new toys and accessories regularly to prevent boredom. Offer destructible items for mental stimulation. Position enrichments strategically to encourage flight and exploration around the entire aviary interior.
What kind of routine maintenance is required?
To keep your aviary and birds in optimal health, plan to perform these routine maintenance tasks:
- Daily – Spot clean waste, refill food/water, inspect for damage
- Weekly – Wash food/water dishes, hose down interior, check roof
- Monthly – Deep clean interior, rearrange accessories
- Seasonally – Trim vegetation around aviary, check weatherizing
- Annually – Full roof inspection, repair any loose mesh
Develop a aviary cleaning schedule and remain vigilant for any signs of damage, leaks, holes, loose parts, etc. that could compromise the structure or allow a bird to escape. Record maintenance in a logbook for reference.
Conclusion
Aviaries allow birds to engage in natural behaviors like flying, foraging and socializing in a protective enclosure. Take time to choose the right design, materials and accessories to create a safe, enriching habitat. With proper maintenance and facilities, an aviary can provide an ideal controlled environment for pet birds or research subjects.