THE RIGHT HOME FOR THE RIGHT BIRD

When looking for the right home, certain specifications must be met for a house even to be considered. Size, location and design are important factors for all homeowners, and are equally important when choosing the right cage for a pet bird. Some cages are easy to clean, but have a utilitarian look. Other cages have extensive, beautiful scrollwork, but cost more than a rent payment. Customers look for cages they like and that fit within their budget, but not every cage is the correct one. It is our job as bird shop owners to find the cage that will satisfy the owner and, most importantly, the bird.

Size Matters

Size is important when selecting a home for pet birds - the larger the cage, the better the condition of the bird or birds being housed. Birds kept in larger cages can fly and get more exercise, resulting in better health. Unfortunately, large cages are costly and require a lot of space. When choosing the size of the cage, especially for larger birds such as Amazons and Macaws, the cage must be large enough to allow the bird to flap its wings freely and to prevent the tail from being bent against the bars. Housing a single finch or pair of finches is easy, because small cages can be used although the cage should be no smaller than a 12-inch cube. Finches are among the few birds that can be kept in wooden cages, such as bamboo, without the worry of chewing. Nevertheless, wooden cages are difficult to sterilize and clean.

There are many styles of cages for smaller birds on the market. We ask our customers what type of cage they want. If they are unsure, we show them the different options. Cages in the store range from ones that are easy to clean, with deep trays and large dishes that are easy to access, to cages that are decorative and come in a variety of colors. We do not assume the customer wants the economy model. We offer a choice - the customer may choose the more luxurious model at the higher price.

The thickness of the wire bars of the cage, i.e. the wire gauge, is important to keep in mind when housing any bird. Small birds with small bills, such as finches, budgies and cockatiels, can be housed in cages with a fine-gauge wire. The beaks of these birds are too weak to bend wire easily. For larger birds, the wire gauge needs to increase, regardless of the size of the cage. A fine wired large flight cage is ideal for budgies, but is not to be used for conures, even though the size is correct. A conure can break the thinner wire or pull it away from the other wires, making a gap. If this gap is large enough for the bird to push its head through, there is the risk that the bird will become stuck. Unless freed immediately, the bird can suffer serious injury or death. If potential customers say they already have a cage at home, we must see the cage or a picture of it to make sure the cage features the appropriate wire gauge, size and is not rusted, before the bird is purchased. This will save a bird's life.

Style and Substance

The style of the cage is an important consideration for some customers. New colors ranging from naturals to pastels are available, as well as the traditional metallic designs. We also stock black and white cages, because these colors can be placed easily in most homes. A large variety of shapes are also available. Birds that fly a lot may benefit from a longer cage, while tall cages will benefit those birds that enjoy climbing. We are keenly aware of a bird species' normal behavior to help a new bird owner choose the appropriate type of cage. The equipment that accompanies a cage should include at least two large dishes, as well as perches in a variety of diameter sizes. The cage should also allow the bird to be easily removed.

New types of cages are being introduced on a regular basis. These cages feature bright colors, new styles and interesting shapes. As long as the cages are the appropriate size, have the correct wire gauge and good equipment; there is no reason not to carry a selection of cages that appeal to all customers. Of particular interest are the cages that feature a built-in play area on top of the cage. If all houses had that type of entertaining equipment, people would never need to leave for vacation.

Reprinted by Pretty Birds from Pet Business by Robyn Bright

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