An outdoor aviary is great and here's why

sammy | BIRDS | April 14, 2009

Outdoor Aviary’s for Parrots

Many people believe that parrots are fragile creatures that must be protected from the elements. On the contrary, parrots, like most animals, including human beings, flourish if given the opportunity to experience the change of seasons, fresh air and sunlight. Obviously in extreme climates outdoor housing for your bird is not an option but if you live in an area where the temperature change is somewhat gradual and not too extreme than an outdoor aviary may be the best thing to keep your bird happy and healthy.

Before considering the construction of an outdoor aviary it is important to check with you local ordinances about outdoor housing of pets. Some places consider any pet housed outside to be livestock and as such may not allow it. It is also important to consider how close and how tolerant your neighbours are. Most parrots, especially the larger ones that are most likely to be housed outside, can be very loud. They often seem to enjoy the sound of their own voice and may choose to use it at a time when most people would prefer to be sleeping. If their noise is likely to be a problem for your neighbours then it is best to leave your birds inside to avoid conflict. If these things are not an issue for you then you should strongly consider the construction of an aviary. In it your bird can bask in the sunshine or enjoy a summer shower. He can keep himself occupied by watching and interacting with the world around him and he will enjoy the health benefits of fresh air.

Ultimately the design of your aviary is limited only by the space you have available and your imagination, but there are some basic requirements that must be met. First and foremost your aviary must be built of sturdy and durable materials. You need to be sure it safely keeps your birds inside while preventing any wandering predators from getting in. It is best if entry to the aviary is done through a double door system. This way you can close one door behind you before actually opening the cage. This will help to prevent escapes, a bird that escapes from an outdoor cage may disappear for good. It needs to built of materials that can stand up to the weather but are not toxic to your bird as chewing on their cage is a parrot’s favourite pastime.

A portion of the cage must be covered on all sides to protect the bird from inclement weather and provide shade from the sun on warmer days. In cooler climates it is also a good idea to supply a box that is gently heated so the bird can get warm if it wants to. Feed and water dishes should be placed in the covered area and must be well off the ground to prevent insects or mice from getting in to them and perches should be placed far enough apart to allow your parrot plenty of room to spread his wings and fly.

Once the aviary is built you will want to introduce your parrot to it slowly. Remember that the vast majority of pet birds are captive bred and so it is likely that your bird has never experienced the outside world. Most parrots will adjust quickly and in no time you will see the benefits as they soak up the sunshine and enjoy the freedom of room to fly.