How To Make A Bird Cage [The Perfect DIY Bird Cage From Scratch] (2024)

You finally got the lovely pet bird you want! Yaay! Now it’s time to welcome your new buddy to its new home. But you don’t want the boring old same bird enclosures!

So, how to make a bird cage, and where to begin?

Choose bird-safe materials like wood, metal, or PVC pipes. Gather essential tools. Cut and assemble a sturdy frame, then attach secure wire mesh based on your bird’s size. Add door and latches to prevent accidents and injury. Place it in a suitable location. Don’t forget to add perches and toys!

Easy peasy, right? So grab your tools, unleash your creativity, and let me show you how to make a bird cage at home and more! Get ready to build a masterpiece!

It’s time to gather the essential bird supplies to create your avian friend’s dream home! So, What should bird cages be constructed from? Let me break down the materials and tools you’ll need to make a bird cage that’s both safe and stylish.

Selecting Bird-Safe Materials

Safety first! Opt for sturdy, non-toxic bird cage building materials that won’t harm your feathered companion. Let me share my some top picks for different types of cages for bird-

Metals:

If you want a metal bird cage but don’t want to clean the rust off bird cage from time to time, choose rust-free or corrosion-resistant metals. Stainless steel and aluminum are top-notch choices!

Avoid any materials with lead, zinc, or coatings, as these can be toxic to birds.

Wood:

If you prefer a natural look, opt for treated or hardwood like oak, maple, or cherry. Steer clear of softwoods like pine or cedar or common wood finishing coatings, as their resins and toxic fumes can irritate birds.

PVC:

Food-grade PVC offers a lightweight and rust-proof alternative, but it’s not as strong as metal or wood.

See Also

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Essential Tools For Construction

As you gear up for your DIY bird cage project depending on your bird cage ideas, make sure to have these tools on hand-

Measuring Tape:

Precision is key for ensuring a sturdy and comfortable cage. Take accurate measurements to guide your construction process.

½-Inch Drill:

A reliable drill will make quick work of assembling the cage frame and attaching mesh or perches.

Wire Cutters:

These are essential for trimming wire mesh to size and creating clean edges for a polished look.

Saw:

If you’re working with wood or PVC, a suitable saw will help you cut pieces to the correct dimensions. Choose a hand saw for smaller projects or a power saw for larger cages.

Safety Glasses:

Protect your eyes from flying debris or potential hazards during construction.

How To Make A Bird Cage: Constructing The Frame

Here comes the exciting part. Now, it’s time to unleash your inner avian architect and construct the skeletal structure of your feathered friend’s palace! Let me show you how to build a wooden bird cage with these easy steps-

Building The Main Structure

Planning And Design

• Sketch a detailed plan for ample space for your bird’s movement and activities.
• Choose bird-safe wood like untreated pine(perfect for dresser drawer bird cage), birch, or poplar. Avoid plywood, MDF wood, or particle board due to potentially toxic chemicals.

Estimate Cage Size

Consider these measurements according to the species and sizes of bird you have-

Assembly Techniques

1. Precisely cut each wood piece according to the marked dimensions.
2. Sand down edges. Eliminate any rough edges or splinters to prevent injury.
3. Join the wood pieces according to your design, creating the main structure of the cage. Use screws to secure the joints.
4. Pre-drill holes for dowels, apply wood glue for added strength.
5. Let the wood glue dry completely before further assembly or attaching wire mesh.

Ensuring Stability And Durability

Level Up

Check for levelness throughout the construction process to prevent wobbling or tipping.

Add Supports

Use extra braces for larger cages or heavy-bodied birds.

Corner Confidence

Pay close attention to corners. Make sure they are tightly secured and free of gaps that could trap beaks or toes.

Test For Strength

Before moving on, gently test the frame’s stability by applying a bit of pressure to different points.

Attaching Wire Mesh

How to make bird cage with wire?

Now that your frame is sturdy and ready, it’s time to add the walls that will keep your feathered friend safe and comfortable-

Securing Mesh To The Frame

Wire cutters and pliers will be your best friends for this step. Cut mesh panels slightly larger than each frame opening to create an overhang. To secure attachment, make sure there’s no gaps or loose areas where your birds might squeeze through.

Removing Waste And Changing Bedding

Clean bird poop off cage:

Regularly remove bird feces from the cage using a gentle cleaning solution and a soft brush or cloth.

How to make a bird cage seed catcher?

Opt for bird-safe materials like scrap wood, cardboard, or fabric. Create a tray or liner that attaches to the bottom of the cage for easy removal and cleaning.

Installing Access Doors And Latches

Create the gateways to your bird’s kingdom! Plan for doors for convenient access to food and water dishes, to keep the area around the bird cage clean, and also your bird’s favorite hangout spots. Consider placing doors at different levels for easy reach. Let me show you some options-

Designing Doors For Cleaning And Access

Removable Doors

Make some doors completely removable for thorough cleaning of the cage interior. Magnetic closures add a touch of convenience and eliminate the need for latches on removable doors.

Pivoting Doors

These can be helpful for cleaning corners and hard-to-reach areas.

Use double joints on large pivoting doors for added stability and smooth operation.

Sliding Doors

Sliding doors can be a space-saving option. Consider double tracks for wider cages to ensure smooth gliding movement.

Adding Secure Latches

Escape-Proof

Opt for latches that are bird-proof but easy for you to operate. Avoid simple hooks or clips that a clever beak could undo.

Variety Is Key

Use a combination of different latch styles for added security. It prevents your bird from learning how to open any one type.

Regular Checks

Inspect latches regularly for wear and tear. Replace them promptly if any signs of weakness are detected.

Preventing From Other Pets

If you have multiple housepets, for example cats, you may wonder, how to make a bird cage cat proof?

• Smaller Mesh Size: Use wire mesh with a gauge small enough to prevent paws from reaching through.
• Secure Latches: Before leaving your bird unattended, double-check that all doors are securely latched. Choose latches that are difficult for cats to manipulate, like spring-loaded or twist-lock styles.
• Strategic Placement: Position the cage in a location where cats cannot easily access it, such as high up on a sturdy stand.
• Supervision: Never leave your bird unattended when cats are around, even with precautions in place.

Adding Perches And Platforms

Now that your bird’s palace has its sturdy walls and secure access points, it’s time to furnish it with the ultimate avian playground! Perches and platforms are more than just furniture; they’re essential for your bird’s physical and mental well-being.

Placement Considerations

Ensuring Optimal Spacing

Perches shouldn’t be too close together to avoid wing overlap or collisions. A good rule of thumb is to leave enough space for your bird to fully spread its wings between them.

Different Heights

Birds love to explore different levels, so place perches and platforms at varying heights, encouraging climbing and exercise.

Climbing And Resting Spots

Include thicker perches for resting and thinner ones for strengthening grip and balance. Offer a mix of perch materials like natural wood perches (branches, dowels), rope, and acrylic.

Attaching Perches Safely

Ensure perches are securely attached to the cage frame. Avoid wobbly perches or loose connections that could cause injury.

Setting Up The Cage

Only knowing how to make a bird cage is not enough, you need to find an ideal location to set up bird cage properly according to your bird’s preference and well-being-

Placing In A Suitable Location

Considering Sunlight

Place the bird cage in an area with access to natural sunlight, allowing birds to benefit from essential vitamin D. Ensure there are shaded areas within the cage to provide relief from direct sunlight.

Temperature

According to University Of Florida–

‘The ideal temperature range for your bird is between 70 and 80 degrees F. Your pet bird’s cage should be placed away from drafts such as the direct line of an air conditioner or heating vent.’(Source)

Minimizing Drafts And Disturbances

• Position the cage away from open windows, doors, or vents to minimize drafts.
• Consider placing the cage at your eye level for better interaction and bonding with your feathered friend.
• Avoid placing the cage near televisions, washing machines, or other disruptive appliances.

Bird Cage Design Outdoor

While keeping your bird indoors offers optimal control over temperature and environment, some species may thrive in an outdoor aviary. If you consider an outdoor setting, ensure:

• Avoid placing the cage in high-traffic areas where people could bump into it or startle your bird.
• Plant greenery or add natural elements like branches and rocks to create a stimulating and enriching environment.
• Provide shelter from direct sunlight, rain, and wind.
• Clean a bird cage as frequently as possible. Clean clean bird cage with dish soap and water solution at least once a week.

Ta da! Your bird cage is all set!

Adding Accessories

If you want to enhance your bird enclosures, it’s a must to include various accessories-

Feeders And Water Dispensers

• Bowl For Bird Bath: Place a shallow bowl or tray for bathing to provide an opportunity for birds to engage in natural behaviors.
• Types Of Feeders: Provide various feeder options for a well-balanced diet. Choose stainless steel or ceramic bowls for dry food, and consider hanging mesh feeders for seeds or millet sprays. Clean mold from bird feeder if you spot any mold spores or mold growth.
• Homemade Bird Food: To ensure a varied and nutritious diet for healthier birds, try to provide different homemade recipes with their favourite foods.
• Water Dispensers: Choose spill-proof water dispensers to keep your birds hydrated without creating a mess.

Toys For Enrichment

Bird Play Gym:

Install a bird play gym with various perches, swings, and interactive elements to keep the birds mentally and physically engaged.

Fun Bird Crafts:

Include handmade toys, like origami birds or pom-pom birds, to add a personalized and entertaining touch to the bird aviary.

Natural Wood Toys:

Include bird-safe, natural wood made toys to encourage chewing and play, and to increase mental stimulation and beak health.

Creating A Stimulating Environment

• Tame Birds: Spend quality time interacting with and taming your birds to build trust and strengthen the bond between you and your feathered friends.
• Indoor Bird Aviaries: If possible, create bird aviaries inside with sufficient space for flying, perching, and exploring.

DIY Projects For Accessories

Check these out-

How to make a bird cage skirt?

Materials:

• Fabric of your choice (lightweight cotton, linen, or muslin are good options)
• Measuring tape
• Scissors
• Sewing machine or needle and thread
• Elastic or ribbon band

Instructions:

1. Measure the border of the bottom of your bird cage and the desired length of the skirt. Add a few inches to each measurement for seam allowances.
2. Cut two rectangles of fabric based on your measurements.
3. Place the right sides of the fabric together and sew along three sides, leaving the top edge open.
4. Fold the top edge down twice and sew a narrow hem to create a casing for the elastic or ribbon.
5. Thread the elastic or ribbon through the casing. Make sure it’s snug but not too tight. Secure the ends of the elastic or ribbon by sewing them together.
6. Slide the skirt over the bottom of the cage and adjust the elastic or ribbon for a secure fit.

How to make a bird cage cover?

Materials

• Dark, breathable fabric (lightweight cotton, fleece, or mesh are good options)
• Measuring tape
• Scissors
• Sewing machine or needle and thread
• Hook and loop fasteners or ties

Instructions

1. Measure the dimensions of the cage.
2. Cut the fabric to match the dimensions, leaving extra for seams.
3. Sew the fabric pieces together, leaving openings for access points like doors.
4. Sew hook and loop fasteners or ties onto the cover and the cage frame to secure the cover in place.
5. Make sure the cover is not too heavy or bulky, as this could weigh down the cage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Final Words

Congratulations! You finally got to learn how to make a bird cage! Now you can customize it to the best fit to your house and personal taste.

Building a bird cage is not just an art, but an act of love and care for your feathered friend. A good bird house can help your birds stay happy and in utter peace. So, will you give it try? Share your experience in the comment section. Happy Birding!