When building an aviary or bird enclosure, one important consideration is selecting the right gauge wire. The gauge of the wire determines its thickness and strength. Choosing the right gauge wire is essential to ensure your birds can’t bend or break through it while also providing good visibility. In this article, we’ll discuss the factors to consider when selecting wire gauge for an aviary and provide wire gauge recommendations based on aviary size and type of birds.
What is Wire Gauge?
Wire gauge refers to the diameter or thickness of the wire. The gauge numbering system may seem counterintuitive – higher gauge numbers indicate thinner wires, while lower gauge numbers are thicker. Wire gets thicker as the gauge gets smaller.
For example, 14 gauge wire is thicker than 18 gauge wire. The gauge is based on the number of drawing operations used to obtain the desired diameter. With each drawing operation, the wire gets thinner and the gauge number increases.
Some key wire gauge sizes for aviaries are:
Gauge | Diameter (inches) |
---|---|
14 gauge | 0.080 |
16 gauge | 0.063 |
18 gauge | 0.048 |
20 gauge | 0.035 |
So a 14 gauge wire is thicker at 0.080″ versus 20 gauge at 0.035″. The thicker wire is stronger but reduces visibility.
Factors for Choosing Wire Gauge
There are several factors to consider when selecting the ideal wire gauge for your aviary:
Bird Size
The size of birds you plan to house is important. Larger birds like macaws require thicker gauge wire that they cannot bend or damage. Smaller finches and parakeets do fine with thinner gauge. Know the types of birds you want to contain when choosing the wire.
Aviary Size
Larger aviary structures will require thicker gauge wire than smaller enclosures. Thicker wire is needed to cover longer spans without sagging on larger aviaries. A good rule of thumb is to go up 1 gauge thickness for large aviaries over 6 feet tall or wide.
Predators in the Area
If you live in an area with predators like raccoons or cats, you may opt for thicker gauge wire to prevent them from bending, cutting, or damaging the enclosure. Thicker wire also prevents snakes and rodents from getting into the enclosure.
Bird Behavior
Energetic birds like parrots may bite, claw, or damage thinner gauge wires. Destructive chewing birds like cockatoos may also damage thinner wire. Opt for a thicker gauge if you have destructive or aggressive birds.
Number of Birds
The more birds you intend to house, the stronger the wire should be to withstand heavier use without sagging over time. Crowded birds also have more opportunity to pick on wire and cause damage.
Climate Conditions
Cold climates can make wire brittle and easier to damage. Coastal, humid areas can corrode and degrade wire over time. Select a thicker gauge for durability if dealing with extreme weather swings. Stainless steel wire holds up better to coastal corrosion.
Budget
Thicker gauge wire costs more than thinner wire. Compare costs online to find the best balance of affordability and durability for your needs.
Recommended Wire Gauge by Aviary Size
Here are some general wire gauge guidelines based on the size of your aviary:
Small Aviaries (up to 4 feet)
16-18 gauge wire is suitable for smaller enclosures up to 4 feet wide or tall. This includes finch aviaries, suspended parakeet cages, or small planted aviaries. 1/2″ by 1″ welded wire mesh is also an easy option. The lighter wire maximizes visibility while optimizing cost.
Medium Aviaries (5-8 feet)
14 gauge wire is recommended for mid-size walk in aviaries in the 5-8 foot dimension. Heavier bodied birds like cockatiels, conures, and Pionus parrots do well with 14 gauge, as it withstands moderate biting and chewing. It offers good durability without excessive cost.
Large Aviaries (Over 8 feet)
For big aviaries over 8 feet tall by 8 feet wide, go with 12 gauge or heavier wire. Large macaw and cockatoo enclosures need the thickness to avoid sagging and damage from destructive birds. Stainless steel 12 gauge wire is very strong for large spans. Though more expensive than galvanized, it holds up better outdoors and has a clean look.
Predator Protection Enclosures
Use the heaviest wire gauge your budget allows if predators are a concern. 10 gauge or heavier welded wire is ideal for deterring raccoons and cats. Bury wire 1-2 feet underground to prevent digging underneath. Ensure all doors have sturdy, predator-proof latches and locks.
Best Wire Material for Aviaries
Galvanized steel is the most common wire choice for aviaries due to its strength and corrosion resistance. Stainless steel is also excellent where humidity is high or in coastal areas. Here are some top wire material options:
Galvanized Steel
– Benefits: Strong, rigid, and galvanized coating resists rust. Most economical option.
– Gauge Range: 12 gauge to 20 gauge available
– Considerations: Can eventually corrode in some climates. Avoid chewing birds.
Stainless Steel
– Benefits: Very strong, corrosion resistant, maintains clean look. Best for coastal and humid regions. Withstands chewing birds.
– Gauge Range: Typically 12 to 16 gauge
– Considerations: More expensive than galvanized wire but longer lasting. Limited gauge options.
Vinyl Coated Wire
– Benefits: Galvanized or stainless wire coated in PVC for safety and aesthetics. Easy to clean. Good visibility.
– Gauge Range: 16 gauge to 20 gauge common for aviaries
– Considerations: More expensive. PVC can be damaged by very destructive birds.
Welded Wire Mesh
– Benefits: Affordable, easy to work with, comes in standard size rolls. 1/2″ x 1″ mesh is ideal for small to medium aviaries.
– Gauge Range: Usually 16 or 18 gauge wire
– Considerations: Not the strongest option for large aviaries or destructive birds but very cost effective.
Conclusion
Choosing the proper wire gauge for an aviary depends on the type and size of birds, the aviary dimensions, climate, potential predators, budget, and other factors. With large parrots and macaws, err on the side of thicker gauge wire like 12 or 14 gauge to prevent damage. For smaller birds, 16 to 18 gauge allows great visibility without excess cost. Galvanized or stainless steel offers the best durability outdoors. Ensure all doors and access points are secured with wire of equal gauge and strength. Investing in wire of the appropriate thickness will keep your birds safely enclosed.