There are many species of pet birds, ranging from the small lineolated parakeet to the large hyacinth macaw. Each bird has different housing requirements when it comes to the proper cage size and type of cage. However, there are general factors for consideration that will help you choose the best cage for your feathered friend.
Size
Always purchase the largest size cage that you can afford and fit in your household. Minimum cage size recommendations are the absolute smallest size of cage your bird can live in. When purchasing a cage, especially a larger cage, ensure that the bar spacing is appropriate for your bird. A cage for a larger parrot that has wide bar spacing is not suitable for a small finch, for example. The following is a chart that can serve as a guideline for selecting a cage with the correct bar spacing for your bird.
Species
Minimum Cage Size
Bar Spacing
Finches
18"x30"x18"
1/4" to 1/2"
Canaries
18"x24" x18"
1/4" to 1/2"
Budgies
18"x18"x24"
1/2"
Cockatiels
20"x20"x24"
1/2" to 5/8"
Lovebirds Parrotlets
24"x24"x24
1/2"
Ringneck Parakeets
24"x24"x36"
1/2" to 5/8"
Conures Poicephalus
24"x24"x24"
5/8" to 3/4"
Caiques Pionus
Jardine's
24"x24"x36"
5/8" to 3/4"
Amazons Mini Macaws Goffin's Cockatoos
African Greys
24"x36"x48"
3/4" to 1"
Large Cockatoos
36"x48"x48"
1" to 1.5"
Large Macaws
36"x48"x60"
1" to 1.5"
Cage Shape
Avoid round cages whenever possible. Because round cages lack corners, some birds may feel insecure in a round cage. For smaller, flighted birds, the length of the cage is more important than the height, as this will allow room for the birds to fly. There are many cages on the market that serve well as flight cages for smaller birds. Cages that are rectangular in shape are ideal.
Bar Orientation and Spacing
The spacing of the bars is an extremely important factor to consider when shopping for your pet parrot. Inappropriate sized spacing may pose a hazard and allow your pet to get his wings, beak, neck, or other part of its body caught between the bars. For parrots, bars that are horizontally oriented are important as this allows them to use their beak and feet to climb. For smaller birds such as finches and canaries that do not use their beaks and feet to climb, orientation of the bars is not as important.
Quality
Don’t skimp on cage quality because of the price. Find the highest quality cage you can afford within your budget. A high quality cage should last you and your bird for years to come. A quality cage should be a brand that has been around for years and offers support and cage for your cage in the future. Many solid companies such as A & E and Kings offer replacement parts for their cages as well. Remember to select a cage color and design that fits your aesthetic needs as well – remember that whatever cage you choose will become a part of your home décor.
Easy to Maintain
Select a cage that is easy to maintain. You want to ensure that the tray pulls out easily, the bars are easy to wipe down, and that the seed catchers can be removed for ease of cleaning. You want a cage that is powdercoated or made of stainless steel. We have several varieties of cages that can be found that will suit your birds needs.
