SETTING UP A BIRD CAGE

A bird cage isn't usually the most "Pinterest-worthy" décor item in the home, but it's more important than Nanna's china hutch for your bird. Most bird cages currently available are a powder coated wrought iron/steel, which is quite strong and durable. It is important to avoid metals such as zinc and lead which will poison and potentially kill your bird, however these are much less common in bird cages these days, thankfully. Poor quality galvanised steel and wire can also be dangerous, so it is important to thoroughly wash with soapy water, especially if you are using galvanised wire to construct your own enclosures. 

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Small birds like conures and quakers don't need a massive cage if they are getting frequent, engaged time out of their enclosure. There are two rules of thumb: 1) buy as large as what fits to your space and budget, and 2) wider over taller. Your bird will most often be only using the top half of the cage, so prioritise width over height. The absolute minimum dimensions are 60 x 60 x 60cm, but I highly recommend around 80 x 90 x 55cm or larger, with the bar spacing between 15-19mm apart. This will give them ample space to fly and hop and spread their wings without damaging them or injuring themselves. A cage that is too small will cause the wing and tail feathers to appear shredded when they do not have enough room to turn and flap comfortably. This is often mistaken for self mutilation, but thankfully has a much easier solution to fix the problem. Ideally, your bird should be able to fly between perches and platforms not just climb or walk. 

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​Avoid cages that are round, 

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, but recommended with between 15-19mm wide bar spacing.

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When looking at cages in store, make sure the panels are firm and the wire is well attached to the frame, the finish is clean and not flaking off, and the doors are able to close securely to prevent escape. Vertical sliding doors will often need to be fastened with a peg or snap hook (like this one from Bunnings)

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A cage with a playtop and doors with locking mechanisms are an advantage.

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It may be tempting to purchase second hand cages and aviaries on Marketplace or Gumtree, however there is a higher risk that you could be introducing disease and illness to your flock. It is not an automatic 'no', but you will need to be very particular about which cages you consider. With any second hand cage, you must sanitise with F10 veterinary disinfectant at a rate of 1:100 (10 ml per 1L water) to kill any bacteria, viruses and pathogens that can harm your birds. 

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Ask yourself these questions:

• Is it clean? (don't even consider it if the seller has not attempted to clean before advertising)

• Is it complete? (are all doors functional and able to be secured? does it have the bottom grate - some cages this needs to be in place otherwise they can escape)

• ​Is there damage, flaking finish, rust, bent bars that can be escape points?

• Is it the right dimensions and bar spacing? ​​

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Key points

• Ideally 80 x 90 x 55cm, or larger

• Optimal bar spacing 15-19mm, but not over 22mm

• Square, not round

• Made from quality mesh with secure locking mechanisms 

• Swing feeders with stainless steel bowls are super convenient features

• Access doors may need to be secured with pegs or snap hooks

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