A Beginner's Guide to Setting Up a Bird Aviary

Bird aviaries are beautiful, functional spaces that provide a safe, enriching environment for your feathered friends. Whether you’re a first-time keeper or looking to expand your knowledge, this detailed guide covers everything you need to know about setting up a bird aviary in the UK.

Planning Your Aviary

Size and Space

Before you start building, consider how much space each bird species requires:

• Finches and Canaries: Minimum of 1 cubic metre per pair.
• Budgerigars (budgies): Minimum of 1.5 cubic metres per pair.
• Cockatiels: Around 2 cubic metres per pair.
• Small parrots (e.g. lovebirds, conures): At least 3 cubic metres per pair.
• Medium parrots (e.g. African Grey, Amazon): 4–6 cubic metres per bird.
• Large parrots (e.g. macaws, cockatoos): 6–10 cubic metres per bird.

Calculate the volume of your aviary:

Length (m) × Width (m) × Height (m) = Cubic Metres (m³)

For example:

An aviary measuring 2 metres long, 1.5 metres wide, and 2 metres high:

2 × 1.5 × 2 = 6 cubic metres

This size would suit a pair of small parrots or several finches.

Location

Choose a sheltered, quiet spot in your garden with protection from harsh weather and good natural light.

Choosing the Right Materials

Framework

• Treated timber: Affordable and easy to work with, but must be sealed to prevent rot.
• Galvanised steel: Highly durable and rust-resistant.
• Aluminium: Lightweight, rust-resistant, but slightly more expensive.

Mesh and Wire

• Galvanised welded mesh: Strong and long-lasting, ideal for predator-proofing.
• Mesh size: 12–15 mm for small birds; 10–12 mm for small parrots.
• Wire gauge: 16 gauge (1.6 mm) for small birds; 12–14 gauge (2–2.5 mm) for larger parrots.

Predator Proofing

• Use welded galvanised mesh instead of chicken wire, which is too weak.
• Bury the mesh or extend it outwards (30 cm deep or 30 cm flat) to stop digging predators.
• Consider a double mesh layer if you have rats, foxes, or other determined predators.
• Secure all doors with strong padlocks or predator-proof latches.
• Inspect the mesh regularly for rust or damage.

Construction Essentials

Foundation and Floor

• Concrete base: Secure and easy to clean.
• Paving slabs: A practical alternative that stops rodents burrowing.
• Wire mesh buried skirt: If using natural ground, bury welded mesh 30 cm deep to stop burrowing.

To create a natural feel, cover the hard floor with sand, gravel, or bark.

Roof and Shelter

• Solid roofing panels: Corrugated plastic or metal sheeting over one-third of the aviary for rain protection.
• Sheltered section: An enclosed, weatherproof area for birds to roost and sleep.

Furnishing and Enrichment

Add:

• Natural perches: Use real branches of varying thicknesses.
• Nesting boxes: Important for breeding or secure sleeping spaces.
• Toys and swings: Rotate regularly to keep birds stimulated.
• Bird baths: Shallow dishes to let birds bathe.

Feeding and Watering

• Provide fresh water daily in spill-proof containers.
• Use feeders that are easy to clean.
• Offer a balanced diet tailored to your birds’ species.

Maintenance and Hygiene

• Daily cleaning of water and food containers.
• Weekly cleaning of perches and toys.
• Monthly disinfection using bird-safe disinfectant.

Safety and Health

• Check for gaps or rust that could allow predators in.
• Watch for signs of illness. Birds hide sickness, so act quickly if you notice changes.
• Quarantine new birds for 30 days to prevent disease spread.

Legal Considerations

Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981

In the UK, the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 is a key piece of legislation protecting native wild birds and their habitats. Under this Act:

• It is illegal to capture, injure, or kill any wild bird, or to take or destroy their eggs and nests (while in use or being built).
• Keeping certain wild bird species without a licence is prohibited.
• If you plan to keep birds that are protected under the Act (such as certain native finches or birds of prey), you must have the relevant licences.

Invasive Species and Planning

• It is illegal to release or allow escape of invasive species such as Indian Ringneck Parakeets or Monk Parakeets.
• Your aviary must prevent accidental escape of these species.
• Large structures may require planning permission from your local council. Check local regulations before construction.

Final Tips

Start small and build confidence with easy-to-keep species before moving to larger parrots. Research each species’ needs carefully. With thoughtful planning and daily care, your aviary will become a thriving, happy home for your birds.