How to Make a Large Flight Cage

Large birds will need a larger flight cage than small birds

Always use size appropriate materials to build a flight cage. Large birds can get toes and beaks stuck in small grating. They are also likely to break through thin chicken wire. Smaller birds, on the other hand, can fly right through the larger holes in chain link fence. The height and width of a flight cage must also be determined by the size of the bird or birds being housed inside.

Things You'll Need

• Metal poles
• Fence pole connectors
• Prefabricated fence door
• Chicken wire, metal grating or chain link fencing
• Cement
• Post hole digger
• Thick fence wire
• Wire cutters
• Pliers

Instructions

1. Measure the area where the flight cage will be located and dig post holes of at least 12 inches deep in each corner. A flight cage should measure at least 8 foot long by 4 foot wide and 8 foot tall, or bigger. Choose a level location gets plenty of sunlight. If predators, such as cats, are a factor, lay down a flooring of cement or brick to prevent them from being able to burrow into the flight cage.

2. Measure and dig post holes for the fence door according to door measurements. Leave enough space so that the door can open, but not enough space that the bird will be able to fit through the gap.

3. Place a metal pole in the center of one hole. Fill the hole with cement powder, then water the powder until completely drenched. Repeat at each hole. In warm, dry climates, cement will dry enough to continue within a couple of hours. In damp or cool climates it may require overnight drying.

4. Complete the frame of the flight cage by attaching metal pole cross pieces at the top of each corner piece and above the door frame with fence pole connectors.

5. Cover tops and sides of the metal frame with metal grating, chicken wire or fencing. Attach by cutting pieces of fence wire to length and tightening around the poles with pliers. Make sure the connectors are secure and not easily undone by a curious parrot.

6. Install fence door using hinges and directions supplied by the door manufacturer.

Tips & Warnings

• To get the spacing for the door exactly right, try installing the door on to its support post first. Lay the door assembly on the ground where it will be installed and use it as a marker for the post holes.

• If the flight cage is for very small birds, the gap left by the fence door's hinges might be too big. Cut chicken wire to the exact size of the gap and attach it to the door near the hinges and then to the support post using wire.

• Before starting any building project, including the construction of a flight cage, check with local and state ordinances for any necessary permits or restrictions.

References

• Hoover Fence Co.; Chain Link Fence Installation Manual

Resources

• Bird Channel; Build An Outdoor Aviary