So You Want To Build An Aviary? Read This First

Next to babies, pets are the best source of joy and comfort. For most people, coming home to very energetic and enthusiastic dogs that can’t wait to lick your face or to birds that screech in harmony whenever they see their favorite human is enough to melt away the stress and worries at work. It’s probably because pets offer only unconditional love and really, nothing beats that right?

Talking of screeching birds, most people think that keeping birds only add to your stress since you can’t really keep them quiet and unless they can be taught how to talk, there’s no point in getting them as pets, or so they say. The thing is, keeping birds as pets whether in pairs or multiple breeds, is something that bird lovers can compare to those who like to keep fish in aquariums there’s just something that calms you down whether or not they do something entertaining.

However, not all bird lovers can go ahead and just build an aviary. There are considerations like weather/climate conditions, design/layout, the materials to be used and whether or not you want to build it yourself or just get those aviary kits. Then there’s also the bird species to think of because you have to make sure the species you put together are able to co-exist in harmony because otherwise, you might find yourself cleaning up a whole lot of bird feathers and maybe burying a bird or two from the constant fights that will surely erupt.

More than anything, aviaries are not like bird cages. While they both confine birds, aviaries allow them to fly freely and they are also designed as well to closely mimic a bird’s natural habitat. You have to think of what plants and flowers to put in and make sure they aren’t poisonous and one that the birds can safely nibble on. Let’s not forget that you also have to make sure you keep your aviaries clean and schedule cleanings for it so you don’t get overwhelmed.

With so many things to think about, you’d think building an aviary sounds like a total nuisance but not when you know what to do, how to design it and basically do all the required research so that all you need to do is execute your plan. As long as you are committed enough to keep an aviary, you should be able to make the most out of it and enjoy yourself like bird breeders and bird lovers do. Just make sure you check any local ordinances, building codes or regulations concerning aviaries as there are some states where restrictions are in place against building aviaries.

The thing about birds is that they are flock animals so they truly enjoy the company of their own kind. They also have the need to be able to fly freely which is why you need to make sure that the aviary you build will allow them to do just that. The first thing you need to consider would be to choose materials that will be easy to maintain. In this light, you will need to choose ceramic tiles and linoleum as flooring for your aviaries as these are easy to wipe, sweep or wash.

Next, you should decide on whether you want your aviaries indoors or outdoors. For outdoor aviaries, cement enclosures are best but you can also substitute with large gravel. It may also be prudent to note that certain types of wood can be poisonous for birds and some types of metal can also pose as health risks. You should also plan to build a larger aviary rather one that’s just right because you’ll never know if you want to add more birds later on so it’s best to leave enough space just in case.

When building your aviaries, you should start with the floor, then the frame and then the walls and the roof. If you go for concrete floors, lay on at least 12 inches of foundation and begin planting your foliage while it is setting. As for the frame, stone, metal, plastic or brick piping work as well as treated lumber. You should also construct the walls and roof with welded wire that is thick enough that the birds won’t be able to break it.

Use natural wood perches in your aviaries to prevent the birds from inhaling toxic fumes. Make sure you wash and age the wood before installing the perches inside your aviaries. If you purchase them ready-made, make sure you get them only from reputable pet shops. And lastly, the entrance should be double doors so that the birds can’t escape and predators can’t easily get in. Add lots of toys and trees that the birds can climb to make for hours of entertainment. For the best aviaries, build them yourself with the DIY kits you can find on simplysheds.com.au. You’ll not only enjoy yourself for hours on end but your birds will be healthy and safe as well.