Parrot Enclosures - Choosing the Right Cage for Your Feathered Friend

At first thought a bird cage is simple. It is meant to contain your bird. However, finding the right cage for your parrot could mean the difference between a bored, stressed bird and a happy, content bird. As you watch a parrot in and around their cage you will find that they are using their cage in many different ways. As we head off to work or run to the store our parrot is left in its cage. The parrot will have to spend some time entertaining itself. Every bird is different, however each finds ways to play and amuse themselves. A safe and well thought out cage will benefit both you and your parrot!

There are several things to think about when choosing the right cage...

Bar Spacing - This is the distance between the metal bars of the cage. The type of parrot will match the spacing of the bars. A larger bird such as a Macaw would have a recommended bar spacing of ¾ inch to 1 ¼ inch, while a medium sized bird such as a Conure would have a recommended bar spacing of ½ inch to ¾ inch. Lastly a smaller bird such as a parakeet would have a bar spacing of no more than 5/8 inch. This is done as a safety precaution. If the bars in the cage are too far apart the Parrot could get his leg or neck stuck in between the bars and possibly get injured. Also the large bars would be difficult for a small bird to maneuver. Likewise, if a large parrot found himself in a cage with little spacing between the bars he too would struggle to move around in his cage. The bars would not allow room for his large beak and feet to hold on to.

Price- New bird cages can range in price from fifty dollars, for a basic no frills black powder coated cage up to a thousand or more for a custom made scrolled rod iron cage. The price should be a compromise between what you need and what you want. If you price shop often times between $199 to $399 will get you a suitable cage any parrot would appreciate. Take careful note of shipping charges as a cage could be costly to ship and this must be equated into the final cost. Often times companies will include shipping in their price. This should definitely be a deciding factor on the cage you choose. You should take note of what accessories are included in the price of the cage and which accessories you will need to purchase. Food and water dishes will often be included in the package as well as perches.

Perches- In their natural habitat a parrot would spend much of their life in the trees. They would hop, jump or fly from branch to branch. The trees would offer various textures and widths. In order to keep a parrot's feet happy and healthy it is good idea to replicate this in their cage. It is easy to do. Simply buy two or more perches with different widths and textures. This will help your parrot's feet to stretch and bend and avoid tenderness. A perch provides a resting spot for your parrot to stop and eat, sleep or play on. A Manzanita perch or similar soft wood perch is also a fun treat for a parrot, because they can peal back and strip off the bark. Some perches will even benefit a bird by cleaning their beaks or wearing down their nails. Try several different types of perches and watch which ones your parrot prefers.

Food and Water dishes - You should have a minimum of two dishes - one for food and one for water, however four would be even better in order to rotate and wash. Dishes for parrot cages come generally in plastic, ceramic or stainless steel. I prefer stainless steel as they are easiest to clean and sanitize. There are various designs and means of which the dishes will attach to the cage. This is simply a matter of preference.

Toys - When it comes to parrots - toys are essential! In their natural habitat a parrot spends their day foraging for food. This is where a vast amount of their energy is used. In our homes that effort and energy is not used and that can lead to a bored, destructive parrot! With so many wonderful toys made for Parrots there is no reason not to have a stash for your feathered friend to dangle, climb, chew, shred, and swing upon. Don't forget to rotate the toys in your parrot's cage in order to provide variety.

Size - Unfortunately too many parrots find themselves in cages that are simply too small. A parrot should be able to fully stretch his wings out and flap them with out colliding into anything. This is the bear minimum. Give your parrot that extra bit of room he deserves, especially if the parrot is remaining in the cage for any extended length of time.

Design - It is important to have a parrot cage that is easy to clean and functional as well. You should look at the cage and ask yourself some important questions. Is it important to you that the cage has caster to roll? Does it have a play gym atop the cage? Is the tray easy to remove and clean? How about the dishes? Parrots tend to scatter their seed and debris every which way. A great designed cage will help contain the mess a parrot can make and will lead to easier maintenance for the owner.

Although you can purchase cages which are circular in design it is often not recommended, as the parrot may feel it has no corner to hide in and become stressed. When you take the time to look, you will discover that a well designed cage will not only look great in your home, but will provide an enjoyable, secure, and entertaining home for your feathered friend!