Errol Crosbie.
Copyright © 2002.
All rights reserved.
Revised: Feb 10, 2008


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Structure of Suitable Aviary for the Pin-tailed Parrot Finch

Two benches - food pots are on the left & front.  

Two cages
are at the right-rear with small ledges below to facilitate cleaning.  
The cages continue through into the upper extension on the far right. 
The upper cage is fully open at its left-hand end.

The birds retreat here from sight as we enter the flight.  

Six of the 8 adults were in this upper cage as this photo was taken.

Lighting

Mainly from by  Triton™ fluorescent bulbs, (1x 40W & 1x 25W) - 14 hours a day.  

They emit UV and it is worth debating whether the UV is part of the success with Pin-tailed Parrot Finches. 
Do they see what we cannot see in the opposite sex?

Two normal 60W bulbs on dimmer control give sufficient light (10% setting) during the night to reduce night frights.
Heat & Humidity
The entire 'factory' is double glazed.  Minimum temperature kept at 23°C/ 70°F by a fan heater,  (need for heat is confirmed by many others).  
Temperatures during the summer have reached 32°C/ 90°F without the adults showing the slightest discomfort, perhaps even the reverse.
The double-glazing may also serve to contain and hence enhance cock-bird song.  Could this add to the breeding stimulus of a natural colony bird?

Relative humidity is 50 - 60% depending upon frequency of watering of two pot plants.   Much success with high humidity has been reported by others,  which fits their natural environment.

Screening

Screening is essential.

Generally provided by conifer branches attached to wire cage fronts. Alternatively, use fine plastic garden mesh.
The doors of the cage fronts are always open or removed.
The birds have access to 'protected' areas so the role of the cage fronts is purely as security-enhancing partitions.

Two diagrams - '3D' & a 'Bird's eye view', with measurements, are at Diagrams of Egg Factory