Galvanized Cages

Question
Hi, i am planning to build a cage. I was reading your apst answers and found out that you also biuld your cages. I just wanted to ask you if hardware cloth is ok for the birds. I heard it has zinc. What kind do you use? is there any anti-zinc? I am going to build a cage that is 18 w,24 h and 40 L (all in inches) What sizes do you use for your breeding pairs?
thnx

Answer
Hi, Zuhair.

I don't know much about galvanized wire.  I read years ago that there are 2 types and one is better to use with birds.  I don't know what you mean by hardware cloth.  I use 1x1 inch or 1x2 inch fencing wire that I scrub and disinfect really well before I use it.  This is much easier to clean than say chicken wire.  I don't know of any anti-zinc wire, except perhaps the metal dog cages, which work well for larger parrots.  

For my breeding pairs of cockatiels, I use a minimum size cage 18 inch wide x 24 inch long by 18 inch deep, with nesting box on the outside.  

Chrys