Pet birds are happiest when they can fly free and are exposed to ample natural sunlight. The best way to provide these simple requests to a companion bird is by building an outdoor aviary. Depending on the weather, not too many freezing days, many pet birds and parrots are able to live fulltime in an outdoor aviary. Even those birds that originate from a tropical climate are able to adapt to changing weather patterns and colder temperatures. Of course, it is always best to check with an avian veterinarian before placing a bird outdoors permanently.
Aviary Location
When choosing a location for an outdoor aviary, it is important to look at the terrain. Level ground, with open space on all sides and access to plenty of sunlight is the ideal. The aviary location should also be free of trees and shrubbery.
Aviary Materials
There are different types of outdoor aviaries for different types of pet bird. Budgies and Love Birds, for example, can be housed in a wood framed aviary. They also require a much smaller grating to the walls of their aviary, something like chicken wire.
Larger birds, like African Greys, macaws or even conures, need to be housed in an all metal framed aviary. These larger parrots will make short work of any wood framing and easily tear the entire aviary down on their own heads. Larger birds like African Greys and macaws can also use chainlink fencing for their aviary.
Considerations for a Healthy Aviary
Many people, especially those that live in areas with many natural predators, prefer to lay a concrete foundation for their aviary. The concrete will keep unwanted plants and animals from invading an aviary and causing harm to pet birds.
It is most important to provide pet birds and parrots housed in an outdoor aviary with a shelter. Birds need to have shelter from wind, rain, snow and even excessive sun. The shelter must also be off of the ground. Perches are very important to the health of all birds. Varying sized perches should be placed throughout an aviary to allow the birds to rest and keep their feet and legs healthy. Large, branchy perches can be used as artificial trees, simply fill a bucket with cement and sink the perch in to the bucket.
A double door system will allow entry to the aviary without the risk of escaping birds. Since all birds need constant access to clean and fresh food and water, the entrance to an aviary is an important consideration.
Do it yourself aviary projects are very possible and can enhance the lives of companion birds, but they do require a great deal of planning. Before taking on an aviary project, make sure to detail the entire project on paper and seek the advice of an avian vet.
Janine Logue - Logue is a freelance writer with several years experience in the newspaper industry as both a reporter and editor.
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