The cage that you bring home with your pet bird should be chosen with care and knowledge as it will be one of the most important decisions you’ll make. You want to avoid making a mistake that will be detrimental to your bird and can actually be the catalyst to creating bad bird behaviors or even injuries and possible death to your bird. The cage is everything to your bird. It will be where he/she sleeps, eats, plays, and where he needs to feel safe and secure. The size of the cage and the cost of the cage will depend on the type of bird you choose, and what his/her requirements are. Some cages might even exceed the cost of the bird.
There are several factors to consider when choosing a bird cage. The size and type of the bird that will be housed in your new cage will be one of the major considerations when choosing the size. An example of a small cage might be one that measures 18 inches wide by 18 inches deep by 27 inches in height or 22″ by 17″ by 33″ high. This size cage might best accommodate Lovebirds, Parakeets, Parrotlets, Budgies, Canaries, Finches, Cockatiels, small Cockatoos, small Conures, Grey Cheeks, and other small Parrots.The main rule of thumb is to remember that bigger is better. If you’re having trouble deciding, pick the larger size. However, it is important to note that if your bird is going to be able to spend most of the day in an open play area, you can opt for a smaller cage used mostly for sleeping. Knowing your bird, his personality, and his physical needs will help in choosing the best cage for your particular bird. A medium cage might measure 32″ by 23″ by 45″ high and accommodate Cockatiels, Conures, Congo African Greys, and small Cockatoos. A large cage might be one that measures 42″ by 26″ by 55″ high or 40″ by 26″ by 62″ high and be suitable for large birds like the Amazons.
In addition to size, it is important to be aware of the placement of the bars, what material the cage is made of, and the configuration of the cage. As a general rule, the spacing between the bars should be approximately ¾ inches for Cockatiels, Canaries require smaller bar spacing, and large Parrots require larger spacing. It is important that the spacing of the bars to not allow the bird to get his head between the bars. In addition, Parrots do best with horizontal bars since they prefer to “walk the bars” and the shape of the cage works best if it isn’t dome shaped or round. Rectangular shape gives the bird more room to exercise and play safely. The best cage is made of steel, wrought iron, aluminum, brass or galvanized wire. It is important to avoid painted cages, wood cages, or any material that is prone to flake or rust. Any one who has had experience with the bill of a Parrot would know that wood cages would be a set-up for disaster.
There are other issues to consider when choosing the best bird cage for your bird. Alert: Don’t choose your bird, yet.
