Bird Cages

By Author: Miranda Osborn
Total Articles: 1
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Bird Cages: Choosing Your Parrot's Home Sweet Home

You're pumped with excitement as you prepare to bring your new parrot home. There is so much to get ready. You need food, toys, perches, playstands, dishes, cleaning equipment and a host of other bird supplies to adequately care for you new feathered baby.
Now all these accessories are vital---but the most critical decision you will make is choosing the proper bird cage for your new parrot.

Importance of Choosing a Cage

In all likelihood, your bird will spend more time in his cage than out of it. Even though you may let your bird wander about the house for a good 4-5 hours per day (recommended), your bird will still spend at least 19-20 hours (including sleeping time) inside his bird cage. His cage is his home. Think of it this way, how would you like to live in a house that was too small or felt cramped? You wouldn't like it would you? Well, neither would your bird.

So when it comes to choosing the right bird cage for your pet, you can't be too careful.
A word of caution: if you're on a budget or in a hurry, you may be tempted to ...
... purchase the first or the cheapest birdcage you can find. This is a HUGE mistake. Cheap bird cages are not always bad. The point is, the cage should suit your bird. It needs to provide your pet with a happy & roomy environment. Price should not be the only thing on your mind.

Things to consider

When it comes to choosing a bird cage, there are several factors you should keep in mind. These include:

1. Size.
Size is critical. A cage that is too small will cause your bird to feel cramped and depressed. Could you imagine feeling like you're living in a closet? Doesn't sound fun does it? Your bird doesn't think so either. As a result, choose a cage that allows your bird adequate space to move around. He should be able to extend his wings their full length without touching either panel. Before choosing a cage, think about what type of bird you are purchasing. If it's a large bird, you will need to look for an African Grey Bird Cage or a Macaw Cage (LINK: Http://www.CagesByDesign.com)
If you are purchasing a smaller parrot, a finch cage or canary cage may do just fine.
If you are purchasing a baby parrot, consider how large your pet will be once he is full grown. Some birds such as Macaws can reach a length of 40 inches.

2. Height
Many birds love to climb. So height is important. However, you don't need to run out and purchase a parrot cage that looks like a towering castle. Many parrots will move horizontally (back and forth) instead of vertically (up & down). The cage should be high enough so your bird can climb at least ½- ¾ of the way up without hitting its head. Of course, the larger the bird, the taller the cage should be.

3. Material
You can purchase bird cages in a variety of material including stainless steel, acrylic, aluminum, metal or glass. Stands, hoods and frames are generally made out of wood or metal. The type of material you choose should be based on the type of parrot you want to purchase. Glass bird cages are more fragile and are not as suitable for the more aggressive breeds. However, the gentle Parrotlet or Electus may do just fine in a glass bird cage. Acrylic panels are a good choice as they are extremely durable. Certain acrylic bird cages are five times stronger than glass bird cages, making them ideal for more aggressive parrots such as the African Grey or Amazon.
Wooden frames make an exceptionally decorative bird cage.

4. Space between bars
If the cage bars are spaced too far apart your bird could stick his head or foot through and then get stuck. Spacing between bars varies from bird to bird. Generally, cages for smaller birds should be spaced no further than ½ inch a part. For larger birds, the bars should be spaced at least 1 inch apart.

5. Indoor or outdoor
Some cages are designed for the indoors, while others can be placed outside as well. If you are looking to house your pet outside, aviaries are the best option. These gigantic cages will give your birds room to fly and stretch their wings in the fresh air. In addition, aviaries are ideal for housing a colony of birds, as they provide ample space for a medium-to large sized flock.

6. Design.
You can walk into any bird store or go online to purchase a premade, factory ready birdcage. Or you can purchase a custom parrot cage that is designed specifically for your bird's needs. Custom parrot cages allow you to specify exactly how you want your parrot cage to be built or designed. You can choose various types of material for different sections of the cage. For example, you could choose stainless steel panels and a clear acrylic door.

7. Accessories
In order to make your bird feel at home, you will need to fill the cage with toys, perches, and accessories. You should also try to find birdcages that have pull out floors and trays. You should also utilize disposable liners. This makes cleaning a snap. Simply place the liners at on the cage bottom. When cleaning time rolls around, pull out the floor, gather the liner that is filled with the fallen food and waste materialand throw it away. Push the tray back in—and you're done! It couldn't be easier.
When it comes to setting up your bird's new home—go all out. You want your bird to live the happiest, most fulfilling life possible.
Miranda Osborn is a writer that specializes in research and article writing in the pet idustry. She has done extensive research for many great companies such as http://www.CagesByDesign.com and has extensive experience in writing for the the pet care and pet supplies industry. You are free to publish this article with written permission and active back links. Email articles@cagesbydesign.com to obtain written permission and find out where you can get more great pet related articles, photos, and content to publish free of charge. (c) Copyright 2009 Adam's Specialty Products, LLC. All rights reserved.