Building an outdoor aviary

Things to be considered before you start:

Budget

Permanent structure vs. portable (able to knock down and re-set-up)
Do you plan to expand has finances allow?

Location

Does it offer some protection from severe whether?
Distance from house (water, electricity, security)

Purpose:

Type of birds to be housed
Will you be able to view the birds ( from inside or looking into)?
Breeding vs. conditioning
Will the aviary be used year round or seasonally?

Local regulations and restrictions

Type of potential predators

The original design was for 2 aviary a 6' x 4' x 6' and a 8' x 6' x6' with a safety connecting the two. Note the bottomof the aviaries have 1/2" wire attached to the frame. My home backs up to a wetland area and the potential for rodents to enter the aviary was a serious consideration. In the past two seasons I have not seen any evidence that the aviary has been penetrated by any unwanted visitors. Weather treated wood was used and the base frame was 10" high. UV protective plastic was used to reduce direct light exposure and cover from heavy rains. The door shown in the lower right picture was made to fit into the frame. An improvement was made on the larger area where the door closes against the frame providing more security and less problems with whether related swelling of the wood. This door is far preferred is housins smaller waxbills as it essentials eliminates any small spaces for potential escapes.

A third aviary was added by adding a wall connecting the two existing aviaries and adding a door entry from the safety. The aviaries are heavily planted with tropical plants and bamboo. The ficus trees and large palms are potted and brought into the bird room during the winter. Heavy foliage creates a sense of security and protection. The mistake I made the first year was too many birds/species. the second year breeding was interupted by pulling birds for shows 1-4 times a month. This coming year I will but fewer species/birds and they will not be pulled for the entire season. In the mid-Atlantic region I feel comfortable housing the birds outdoor from mid-April to late October depending on seasonal variations. A fellow fanciers has housed finches even blue caps outdoors all year with minimal heating and had minimal loss. For me going outdoors in cold weather is not my idea of fun. Going out to fill the bird feeders for the resident birds is enough for our winter months. If you have questions or want more details feel free to email me and I will gladly providing guidance based on my experiences. My aviaries were designed to fit into my small garden and I created sitting areas so I can enjoy the birds.

Finch Madness

Robert Mehl

Owings Mills, Maryland 21117

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