Budgie Aviary Mesh

Step 1 – Calculate & Plan Design

Measure your area and design your birdcage accordingly.

Calculate its volume based on your birds’ size and quantity, ensuring ample space for flying.

Make sure to include a door for easy cleaning.

Step 2 – Determine the Appropriate Hole Size & Gauge

You have the option to use:

– Holes measuring 13mm x 13mm for smaller birds like finches, budgies, doves, canaries, etc.
– Holes measuring 25mm x 25mm to discourage larger birds such as parrots, macaws, cockatoos, etc.
– Use wire that is 1mm (19g) thick to prevent small birds from chewing through the mesh.
– Use wire that is 1.8mm (15g) thick to deter large birds from chewing through the mesh.

Step 3 – Measure Wood

Bring your treated timber battens and a tape measure. Begin by measuring and marking the sections needed to create the structural frames of the enclosure.

Step 4 – Cut Battens

On a stable surface, place the battens and use a hacksaw to cut them to the required size.

Make sure to wear protective gear for safety while doing this.

Step 5 – Join Battens Together

Employ a utility square to guarantee precise angles. For initial adherence, contemplate applying glue as you connect the battens using wood screws and a drill.

Important: Before assembling, pre-drill and countersink your joints for a flush and securely finished outcome!

Step 6 – Construct Frames

Follow your design plan and proceed with steps 4 and 5 to construct all essential wooden frames.

Ensure to allocate ample space for the installation of a door.

Step 7 – Measure & Cut Mesh

Stretch out the wire mesh over the frames and trim it along the wood, making sure the mesh extends beyond the wood to allow room for attachments like staples.

Step 8 – Attach Netting to Frames

Secure the netting to the frames by using staples spaced at intervals no more than 15cm apart. Hammer them into the wood to ensure the netting is firmly attached. Make sure each side of the aviary, including the bottom, has a corresponding piece of wire attached.

Step 9 – Create a Floor

Constructing a concrete base for your aviary is feasible, but it requires significant effort and is more suitable for larger outdoor aviaries that require a sturdy foundation. For standard outdoor aviaries, just place gravel or sand on top of the wire mesh.

Step 10 – Join Frames

Fasten the frames together securely using screws, ensuring there are at least 4 points per side.

Important: Ensure that the mesh attachments are facing outward.

Note: Pre-drill and countersink your joins for a flush and secure finish!

Step 11 – Create Door

Remember that you’ll need to access the cage for cleaning, so it’s preferable to have more space than less.

Construct the door similarly to the rest of the structural frame, but include diagonal braces to improve its durability.

Step 12 – Attach Door

Affix three latches to the wooden frame using screws.

Moreover, screw in an additional latch to guarantee the door stays securely closed.

Step 13 – Check for Weak Spots

Your aviary should be prepared now.

Carefully examine all sides and joints to confirm that the frames and mesh are firmly attached.

Check for any gaps where birds could potentially escape, and ensure the door closes securely.

You’re now ready to start furnishing the aviary!