9 Signs You're An Expert Macaw Cage Expert
Choosing a Macaw Cage
The best cage can make a big difference in the life of a macaw. It can help strengthen bonding and allow a bird to flourish.
Proper care also includes providing plenty of toys within the cage to keep a macaw entertained and occupied. The best method to select the appropriate cage for your pet is to make an educated choice.
Size
Macaws, which are the largest of domesticated birds require a cage that is that is large enough to accommodate their size. These intelligent birds require plenty of room for play and exercise. They also enjoy engaging toys in their cages that keep them engaged throughout the day. The cage should be at least 3 feet wide 2 feet deep, and 6 feet tall.
The recommended cage size for a macaw is 1.5 to 2 times the bird's total wingspan, to give them enough room to flap their wings for exercise and for moving around. If you decide to add perches, toys and food stations to the cage, it will make more space and leave less room for the bird's wings.
You should also consider the size of the cage when choosing macaw cages. Their tails can grow to be as long as their bodies. The cage should be tall enough so that the bird's tail does not scratch against the cage's walls as it turns.
The size of the bars is a different aspect to be considered. Macaws are sturdy birds with strong feet and beaks, therefore make sure the bars of the cage are constructed of sturdy metal. They must also have enough space between them to prevent your bird's fingers from getting caught. It is also important to avoid cage variations that might affect your bird's safety like round cages or cages with decorative scrollwork.
A high-quality large bird cage is an investment in the well-being and happiness of your macaw. A cage that is suitable will provide your pet with the space needed to live a healthy and happy life, and also allow you to spend more time with him and interact with him outside of the cage.
If you are ready to buy a stunning cage for your macaw bird, check out our selection of cages at Bird Cages 4 Less. We have cages that are ideal for your macaw, no matter if it is the larger Empire Macaw Cage 3157 or the luxurious Double Macaw Bird Cage With Divider.
Bar Spacing
The best cages for macaws have an expansive, solid base and are made of tough material. These cages are an excellent fit for birds that like to climb and hang out. They also offer security for the bird. These features can help prevent the bird from accidentally escaping and stop them from stealing toys or chewing them up that they find in their cage.
Another important consideration when choosing cages is the spacing of the bars. The bars of the cage should not be too close together as birds could get their feet or head stuck between them when climbing. This can be very dangerous for birds, so the spacing between bars should be at least 1/2 inch apart or 3/8 inch for smaller finches. For larger parrots the bar spacing should be either 1 inch or 3/4 inch.
The cage should also have a an expansive, wide door that is easy to open. This makes it easier for you to clean the cage, and get food and water. The front door should be bird-proof. The cage should have the space for a grate as well as a perch as birds like to perch on the perch as well as the grate. The cage should include an opening tray that slides as well as a swing-out feeder entrance, and a bird guardrail.
Finally, the cage should be rectangular or square in shape rather than round as the odd angles can hinder toes and make it difficult for birds to maneuver. Avoid cages with plastic mesh on the sides and top since birds can easily bite through it. Galvanized cages should be rinsed thoroughly as the process may leave tracetraces of zinc and other metals on the wire that can be harmful to birds.
A cage is an essential part of the life of your pet and can bring immense joy or frustration. To ensure you purchase the appropriate cage for your pet make sure you consider all of the factors that are listed above. When you choose the best cage that meets your bird's needs, your pet will have an enjoyable life and you will be happier as well.
Toys
Macaws can live up to 100 years old and are intelligent birds. They can also be destructive, which is why it is crucial that their cages and toys provide them with plenty of stimulation and entertainment.
They are extremely social and enjoy interacting with their owners, so having a variety of toys to play with together or individually is essential. It is also important to provide plenty of chewing materials that will keep their powerful beaks busy. For instance my cockatoo Lily was a fan of shredding books and make them into "confetti" which she would scatter around the room for hours. I would have to spend hours each morning sweeping up the dust.
There are numerous toys available specifically for parrots. However, the top ones available may already be in your home. Natural branches, such as those found outside, can be a source of entertainment for hours and can also be used to create hand or foot toys. Untreated lumber cut from the local home improvement store or even the nearby woodworking shop can be an inexpensive toy that can offer hours of fun for your bird. The trick is to have lots of non-toxic, well-maintained branches that can be strung from the bars of their cage and given to them in small pieces. Some of these branches can also be joined with sisal or cotton and rope to create various toys.
If you have a cockatoo or other bird that is not used to playing with toys, it might take some time and patience to convince them to play with them. At first, keep the toys out of sight and gradually bring them closer. Most birds will eventually be able to play with toys that they don't have.
If harlequin macaw are looking for a larger cage that will accommodate your Macaw we have several stainless steel cages and aviaries in sizes that are ideal for this species of large bird. You can also purchase a birdcage specifically made for this type of large bird so that you can ensure it is safe and sturdy enough to stand the weight of their powerful beaks and claws.
Safety
Macaws are inquisitive, intelligent birds that can be prone to accidents when placed in cages that are not suitable for them. It is essential to consider the safety of your pet when choosing the right cage for your pet. Some important considerations are the size of your cage, the distance between bars, and the materials you use to build your cage.
Macaws require plenty of space to move about to stretch their wings, move around and engage in the natural behaviors that improves their overall health. A larger cage lets them do this and offers the security of a secure, safe enclosure that reduces boredom and stress.
The ideal cage size is 5 to 6 feet in height and width. This will ensure that the bird is able to fly freely within the enclosure, which is vital for their health. The cage should be made of sturdy materials like stainless steel to withstand the frequent biting these large birds get.
Due to their durability and security stainless steel cages are popular with pet owners. They offer better airflow and visibility while preventing your macaws from becoming caught in sharp metal parts that could be dangerous. Additionally some stainless steel cages come with larger door openings to allow easy access for cleaning and interaction with your pet.
Toys offer both enjoyment and enrichment for macaws. The provision of a variety and rotating them on a weekly basis encourages mental stimulation and strengthens your pet's natural instincts to hunt. Additionally, toy items should be made from durable materials that can withstand the force of a macaw flying and are safe from chewing or ingesting.
When building a cage it is also essential to avoid using materials that could be harmful to macaws. Paints and finishes containing lead and other harmful chemicals are some of the most toxic materials. You should look for cages that are made of non-toxic materials and that are in compliance with the regulations of the government.
Allow your macaw to interact outside of its cage. This helps them bond with their human companions, reduces anxiety and stress and encourages an appropriate behavior. Ideal socialization takes place in a quiet, dark area away from children and other pets.