How to Build Your Own Outdoor Bird Aviary With a Thatched Roof
The method of using a thatched roof to waterproof a dwelling has been utilized since before the Middle Ages. A thatched roof is defined as any roof that uses vegetation, such as straw. Normally, a thatched roof is attached to a wooden frame, with nothing more than the thatching between the inside of the dwelling and the outside elements. However, to be used atop an aviary, the thatched roof structure must be slightly tweaked so the birds housed inside cannot escape.
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Things You'll Need
- Metal poles
- Chain-link fence or other metal grating
- Heavy wire, at least 12-gauge
- Wire cutters
- Pliers
- Reeds or straw at least two feet long
- Cement
- Post hole digger
- Metal pole connectors
- Fence door
Instructions
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1
Decide how large the aviary should be and dig post holes at the corners at least 12 inches deep. Place corner poles in the center of each hole, fill with cement powder and drench with water.
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2
Using four-way metal pole connectors, install cross poles and roof poles so the frame of the aviary resembles a box with a triangle on top.
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3
Decide where to install the fence door and dig post holes for support posts. Make sure there is enough space to install and open the door, but not enough space to allow the birds to escape.
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4
Using heavy gauge wire, attach fencing or other metal grating to the entire outside of the structure, creating a peaked roof. Install fence door using included directions.
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5
To create roof thatching, bundle reeds together into a tube no less than eight inches in diameter and secure with wire.
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Starting at the bottom of the peaked roof and allowing about half of the thatch bundle to overhang, attach the thatching to the metal grating using wire. Continue across the bottom of the roof for the entire desired length, making sure to butt each new thatching tightly up against the previous one.
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7
Overlap each layer going up the roof by about half. At the peak of the roof, fold thatching in half over the top and attach from both sides.
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Tips & Warnings
If birds will be kept in the aviary full time they will need a shelter. A dog house, elevated by a simple platform, will do the trick.
To keep predators out of the aviary, install a slate or cement floor.
To avoid escapes, try installing a double door system instead of a single door.
Always check local building codes before starting any project.
References
- Photo Credit thatched japanese tea house roof image by TMLP from Fotolia.com
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Comments
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thanx for idea.
