How to Tell Which Kind of Bird Cage Will Be Perfect for You
By Taylor Johnson
Birds are some of the most interesting and intelligent types of pets to have. Some need to climb constantly and others need an escape-proof latch because they always seem to figure out how to get out! There are lots of options when it comes to bird cages. From bar spacing and what type of metal it should be made of to whether you should get a hanging or free-standing cage, finding the perfect bird cage can be easy if you follow these 3 guidelines:
• Be sure the cage has appropriate bar spacing and overall size • If in doubt, always buy a free-standing cage because some birds cannot live in hanging cages • Cages should be made of stainless steel, powder-coated steel, or powder-coated wrought iron
Appropriate Bar Spacing and Cage Size
Conure cages, for example, should have bar spacing between ½” to ¾” apart. A parrot cage also comes in this bar spacing range because parrots are about the same size as conures. You’ll want to consult with online bird cage sites or your bird breeder for advice about what bar spacing is appropriate for your specific bird. If the bars are too small, they can have trouble climbing up and down the cage; a behavior that most birds enjoy when they aren’t out of the cage for exercise. On the other hand, if a bar’s spaces are too far apart, such as can be the case with a Macaw cage being used as a parrot cage, a bird can get their head caught in between the bars. Cage height and width should be twice the expanse of your bird’s wings when extended.
Free-Standing or Hanging Bird Cage
Conure cages, a parrot cage, and some other types of cages should never hang because the swinging motion can disturb your bird’s sleeping and eating habits. Your bird can become malnourished and overtired if a hanging cage is used for some species. You can find out more information about which of these 2 types of cages is right by asking your breeder or pet shop for advice. The best bet is to buy a cage that stands on the ground and won’t sway or swing. Look for a cage that comes with heavy-duty castors or wheels for easy moving from one room to another. Especially for night time, your bird should be rolled into in a dark, quiet part of the house so it can get the 8 hours of sleep that it needs.
Materials Should Be Safe
What your bird habitat is made of is one of the most important aspects of all. Metal materials should be stainless steel, powder-coated steel, or powder-coated wrought iron. Stainless steel is great because it looks beautiful and wipes clean very easily. Powder-coated steel or powder-coated wrought iron are wonderfully strong and easy to clean and they come in many different colors to fit your preference. The powder-coating should be made from non-toxic paint, free of lead and zinc. This is the safest paint to have on conure cages or any bird habitat for that matter!
With these 3 guidelines in mind, you’ll be sure to give your bird the safest and most comfortable parrot cage, Macaw cage, or conure cages available!
