Covering in a porch

[Awnie]

Hi

We have a lovely covered porch just off our bed room. It gets just the right amount of sun during the day and I think it will make an awesome outdoor aviary. I am thinking if I use some sort of netting or chicken wire type fencing I can easily make it secure. I am wondering if anyone has any product recommendations.

Thank you

 

[SailBoat]

One may think that is should be simple to define what would make an outdoor aviary. In fact, it is impossible to answer your question without a ton more information.

As example:

- What kind of Parrot and how many do you have
- Where in this huge World do you live (even a region would be helpful)
- What kinds of Predator are common in your area, including domesticated cats and dogs
- Is this short term, an hour each day or extended stay
- What is your DYI skills
- What 'Code' requires exist in your area
- If you live in a Condominium, Apartment Complex or like regulated living area, what requirements and/or restrictions exist
- If you live in a Flood or Hurricane area or region
- Is this Porch classified as a Fire Exit
- What is the current flooring, wall and covering materials


FYI: Chicken Wire is a Galvanized Product that contains Zinc! Zinc is classified as a Heavy Metal and is toxic to Parrots. Netting will commonly maintain a small parrot or bird, but will not stop a Predator!

 

[Awnie]

Wow all good questions. Here, I will do my best to answer.

- I have a Macaw and an Amazon
- We live in the Vancouver, BC region
- Got plenty of predators. The porch is well off of ground level for any ground animals...they would have to come through the house. I suppose an eagle or hawk could try to get in.
- this would definitely be a short term...while we are home...outside time kind of place.
- between myself and my DH we are fairly handy
- we live in our own home and could most likely do this without breaking any code
- no floods or hurricanes...earthquakes.
- flooring is wooden decking. Most likely I would put their large tree stand out there and fashion some ropes etc then just cover the small amount of decking with paper or puppy pads.

I was thinking whether some netting would be good enough but concerned about the chewing through.

Thanks

 

[SailBoat]

Thank-you! That helps greatly!!!

The MAC would quick be though the netting with that Amazon working on its own area being moments behind! So, Netting is out, unless you plan on being out there 200% of the time.

Coastal Eagles range 50 to 100+ miles inland and the full length of any rivers when the coast is stormy. Your Hawk population is likely regulated by the Eagle population, but they are there. Chicken wire weight and structure would be of little protection from an Eagle or Adult Hawk. In addition, the MAC would make quick work and the Amazon would be a bit longer, but also can cut though.

For all of them (Eagles, Hawks, MAC and Amazon) you are looking for 'Stainless Steel Mesh like product (does not rust and run down the side of the home) that is structured around rectangular segments with bar weights similar to that of your MAC's cage bars. Bar spacing would be based on the head of the Amazon. I recommend 1/2" (13 mm) with 5/8" (16 - 17 mm) being maximum for Amazons, since they all seem to like to stick their head though things. That spacing also keeps out the climbers, like raccoons and smaller climbers.

The floor is a problem since it is likely 'Treated' outdoor lumber! The chemicals are tonic to Parrots and you will need to keep Beaks far away. Double check your flooring to determine thickness. There was a period of time that 1" (25 mm) was really common! Those floorings become dangerous with age and can fail without notice. If that is what you have, replace it!!! Look a the engineered 'plastic' like products now being used. Stronger, very long life, easier to clean and maintain, more resistance to Beaks, but not 100% with MAC's and Amazon's.

Be very careful regarding 'Code' as they can also include: Fireman Access Requirements! If this is the only access to your bedroom (not including interior doors, etc), your local government will not be overly happy.

Outdoor lighting: It (they) will need to be removed or seriously upgraded to 'explosion proof' or like supper strong fully enclosed fixture(s). Think MAC Proof.

Nearest Water Source: Big Parrots represent big clean-ups. So think this one though prior to starting! Freezing is likely in your area, so keep that in mind also!

- This kind of project is something DYI people can complete!
- Assure that you are covered regarding Code and especially the Fireman Access thing!
- After the above, look very closely at your flooring!!!
- Stainless steel meshing can be frightfully expensive, but it will last for near ever!


Enjoy!

 

[Awnie]

Thank you so much. This is amazing and so thorough. I am looking forward to starting my diy project. Will start with the stainless steel meshing. If outrageously expensive it may end up being a larger store bought aviary for the birds.

Thx