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