We knew when we got our birds, Ed and Olive the cockatiels, and Harlan the grey parrot, that we wanted them to fly and experience the outdoors. So it was only a matter of time before we started thinking about outdoor aviaries.
We have a very small yard and when we started to look into outdoor aviaries it was apparent that finding a place to put one wasn't going to be easy. We also had specific requirements we wanted which were hard to meet with an already built aviary.
We wanted an aviary that could easily break down and store in the winter. We also required a double door so moving in and out of the aviary would not pose an opportunity for the birds to fly out. Lastly, we needed stainless steel or galvanized stainless steel mesh that was small enough for the cockatiels.
After many Google and Amazon searches, we decided the best solution was to build one and to build it under the maple tree along the front pathway. Right there where Jeff is sitting.
The first step towards building the aviary required the removal of the stones, leveling the ground, and installing pavers.
We placed weed barrier fabric on the ground then sand and gravel, and the pavers over that. We used fairly large pavers to minimize the cracks so the aviary had a sturdy surface.
Using 2 X 2s that were 8 feet long, we built 9 panels that made up the aviary's sides, doors, and roof.
We primed and painted the panels so they would withstand the weather better.
Jeff found a place on the internet that sold a large roll of after weld galvanized steel mesh that met our needs. It was delivered on a large truck and yes, it was heavy.
The mesh was cut and stapled to the panels overlapping the edges to secure it even better as Harlan could most certainly pull out staples. The panels were then bolted together.
The aviary was Jeff's design and he did most the work. It consumed the better part of two weekends and the Fourth of July holiday to make.
Naturally, the birds love it!
Come October, once it starts raining, we can unbolt the panels and store them in the garage.
Right now, while the weather's nice, these caged birds are enjoying the outdoors!
