Creating an outdoor walk in aviary for your feathered friends is not only a rewarding project, but it also provides a secure and enriching environment for your birds. However, designing an aviary that meets both the needs of your pets and your backyard space can feel overwhelming. With so many options available, you might be unsure where to start or how to ensure it’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Luckily, with the right guidance, building a walk-in aviary is entirely possible and can be a fun DIY project. In this article, we’ll walk you through 10 fantastic outdoor walk in aviary ideas, each complete with DIY plans that cater to a variety of bird species and backyard spaces. Whether you’re a seasoned bird enthusiast or a beginner, these ideas will inspire you to create a safe and beautiful aviary that will enhance your backyard and provide your birds with plenty of space to thrive.
Outdoor Walk In Aviary Ideas: 10 Inspiring Designs for Your Birds
Creating an outdoor walk-in aviary is a great way to give your birds the freedom they need while keeping them safe from predators. These designs vary from simple enclosures to more elaborate structures, and we’ve got the top 10 ideas for your backyard aviary project.
1. Walk In Aviary with Perching Station
If you want a versatile aviary that works well for multiple bird species, consider building a walk-in aviary with a perching station. This design features multiple perches at various heights, allowing birds to spread out and reduce conflicts. The aviary’s double-door system ensures your birds stay secure while you enter or exit.
- Materials Needed: Redwood lumber, stainless steel wire mesh (1/2” by 1/2”), PVC roofing sheets
- Why It Works: Perfect for mixed-species aviaries like parrots, finches, and canaries.
2. Sheltered Geometric Dome Aviary
For those with larger species like chickens or quails, a geometric dome aviary offers a unique and spacious solution. The dome shape adds an aesthetic touch and provides a sturdy, predator-resistant structure.
- Materials Needed: Wood, galvanized steel tubing, wire mesh, gravel perimeter
- Why It Works: Strong and safe, perfect for ground-dwelling birds.
3. Custom-Made Balcony Aviary
If you’re limited on space, a custom-made balcony aviary can be an excellent way to bring birds into your living area while keeping them safe. This design integrates seamlessly with the existing structure of your home.
- Materials Needed: Custom wood, bird-safe mesh, sturdy framing
- Why It Works: Utilizes unused balcony space and provides a controlled environment for birds.
4. Simple Square Aviary Plan
A simple square aviary is perfect for daytime use for birds like parrots or pigeons. It’s easy to build and can be customized with perches and nesting shelves for comfort.
- Materials Needed: Galvanized steel, aluminum wire mesh, wood for framing
- Why It Works: Quick and budget-friendly build, ideal for temporary bird enclosures.
5. Homemade Quail Aviary
Quails require a unique space that encourages natural behavior. This design is simple yet effective, providing shelter and space for growth and breeding.
- Materials Needed: Hardware cloth, wood for the frame, natural plants
- Why It Works: Close to the quail’s natural habitat, with plenty of room for nesting.
6. Easy Walk-In Pigeon or Dove Aviary
For pigeon or dove lovers, this easy-to-build aviary can be constructed over the weekend. It uses a prefabricated dog kennel as the base structure, making it an affordable and efficient option.
- Materials Needed: Dog kennel, wire mesh, cable ties, shade cloth
- Why It Works: Quick to set up, providing both sunlight and shade for your birds.
7. PVC Piping Aviary
A simple and lightweight PVC piping aviary is ideal for parrot owners looking for a temporary or playpen-style aviary. It’s inexpensive and straightforward to assemble, and can be customized with toys and perches.
- Materials Needed: PVC pipes, stainless steel mesh, cable ties
- Why It Works: Portable, affordable, and easy to build.
8. Easy Backyard Aviary Plan
This backyard aviary design is simple to build and is perfect for smaller birds like finches or cockatiels. It features a concrete foundation and a sheltered area, providing safety and comfort.
- Materials Needed: Concrete pavers, hardware cloth, OSB board, roofing materials
- Why It Works: A durable and functional aviary for smaller birds.
9. Walk-In Deck Aviary
Utilize your existing wooden deck by transforming it into a spacious aviary. This design integrates with the deck’s structure, providing a seamless addition to your home.
- Materials Needed: Untreated lumber, stainless-steel wire mesh
- Why It Works: Perfect for larger birds like parrots, offering an aesthetically-pleasing outdoor space.
10. Designer Chicken Coop Aviary
For a more sophisticated aviary, a designer chicken coop with a gabled roof and sheltered breeding area can be both functional and beautiful. This project requires some advanced carpentry but results in a stunning aviary.
- Materials Needed: Mesh, wood, plywood, roof tiles
- Why It Works: Offers a high-end design while providing shelter for chickens or other birds.
Conclusion:
Whether you’re looking for a small, simple aviary or a larger, more intricate design, there are many outdoor walk-in aviary ideas to choose from. These DIY plans cater to different bird species and backyard spaces, ensuring you can build the perfect aviary for your feathered friends. Remember to consider the specific needs of your birds, such as space, shelter, and protection from predators, as you select the ideal aviary design for your home.
