Bookshelf Headboards

I'd like to build my own aviary or large cages.....?

How do I go about getting that done? I have plenty enough parakeets, but I want to have my own caging system, preferably one in which they can have a "jungle gym" and/or tree system and rocks etc. in it, and it looks like the tropical wild or be like one of those Star Trek naturalistic environments or habitats that I can walk into and be with them, complete with the sounds of the streams, storms, and other bird and animal noises. Of course I don't know the how to on getting accomplished that which I have in my head... I have never built something and don't even know how to build a nightstand or bookshelves or headboard for beds, let alone a project such as this. I don't much like some of those online caging systems.... How do I get started?

Public Comments

1. With your lack of experience..............do lots of research. You can use pvc pipe as the frame and make a separate room for you to enter and exit. The wire must be 1x1/2 inch and be stainless steel not galvanized. Galvanized has zinc in it and will poison the birds. Google - aviary plans and read, read, read. Be sure to hang perches from the wire ceiling so the perch moves freely when they land on it - like in the wild. Good luck.
2. What type of birds are you interested in keeping? That is the most important factor when determining the size of the cage/aviary. First, consider your design. If you don't have one, now is a good time to brainstorm about how much space you have and what you may be able to accomplish in the next month or so. Where do you want to put the aviary? Second, consider your expenses. A good sized aviary will run you close to $400. Third, consider your materials. Are you going to use 2X4's or 1X2's? The former is very heavy. I recommend making a walk-in aviary. These can be built for under $400 if you shop around. Design your aviary like a box, square with 4 corners. These are easier to build, as you will build panels and then put them together at the end. You will want to use cage wire that is 1/2"X1/2" or smaller. Anything larger, and rats will take your efforts as an open invitation to nest, rest, steal seeds, and (believe it or not) eat your birds. Run some pvc roof panels along the bottom to deter mice from taking refuge in the aviary. Do your research on aviary mesh. Bigger birds will need thicker wire. A place I recommend is KW cages in California. They have good prices and a large selection of wire. Are you going to install a safety door to prevent birds from escaping? Are you going to run wire into the aviary to power heating, any sound effects or other electrical equipment? These are a few points to consider.
3. The other posters have good ideas I wanted to add a few. You should have a cement/slab liked floor with a drain also and bury the fencing in the cement floor. Make sure there is a hose near to help clean the floor also.