Bird Cage Size Calculator
Find the perfect cage dimensions for your feathered companions with species-specific recommendations and expert guidance
Bird Information
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Select a bird species and click Calculate
Why Size Matters
Proper cage size is crucial for bird welfare. Inadequate space leads to stress, obesity, feather plucking, and behavioral problems. Birds need room to stretch wings, climb, and exercise naturally.
Beyond Minimums
Our recommendations are bare minimums. Bigger is always better! Consider flight cages or aviaries if possible. Remember: your bird will spend most of its 10-80 year life in this cage.
Out-of-Cage Time
Even with a large cage, birds need daily supervised time outside their cage (minimum 2-4 hours). This allows for exercise, socialization, and mental stimulation essential for their wellbeing.
Quick Species Comparison
| Species | Wingspan | Min. Cage Size | Bar Spacing | Difficulty | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budgerigar (Parakeet) | 12" | 22k+ cu in | ≤ 0.5" | Beginner | 5-10 years |
| Cockatiel | 15" | 42k+ cu in | ≤ 0.75" | Beginner | 10-25 years |
| Lovebird | 10" | 13k+ cu in | ≤ 0.5" | Intermediate | 10-15 years |
| Canary | 9" | 9k+ cu in | ≤ 0.5" | Beginner | 10-15 years |
| Finch | 8" | 6k+ cu in | ≤ 0.375" | Beginner | 5-9 years |
| African Grey Parrot | 20" | 100k+ cu in | ≤ 0.75" | Expert | 40-60 years |
| Amazon Parrot | 22" | 133k+ cu in | ≤ 1" | Advanced | 25-50 years |
| Cockatoo | 30" | 338k+ cu in | ≤ 1" | Expert | 40-70 years |
| Conure | 14" | 34k+ cu in | ≤ 0.75" | Intermediate | 15-30 years |
| Diamond Dove | 18" | 73k+ cu in | ≤ 0.5" | Beginner | 8-12 years |
| Quaker Parrot | 19" | 86k+ cu in | ≤ 0.75" | Intermediate | 20-30 years |
| Macaw | 48" | 1382k+ cu in | ≤ 1.5" | Expert | 50-80 years |
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I upgrade my bird's cage?
If you start with an appropriately sized cage, you shouldn't need to upgrade unless you're adding more birds or the cage becomes damaged. Quality cages can last 10-20 years with proper maintenance. However, many owners start with "starter" cages that are too small and need to upgrade within the first year.
Can I use a cage that's taller but narrower than recommended?
No. Birds fly and move horizontally, not vertically. Height is important, but length and width are crucial for wing extension and flight. A tall, narrow cage will not meet your bird's exercise needs. Always prioritize horizontal space.
What if I can only afford a smaller cage right now?
If you can't afford an appropriate cage, it's best to wait until you can. However, if you already have the bird, ensure they get extensive out-of-cage time (4+ hours daily) in a bird-safe room. Consider this a temporary solution and save for a proper cage as soon as possible. Your bird's physical and mental health depends on adequate space.
Do different bird personalities need different cage sizes?
While individual personalities vary, all birds need minimum space requirements based on their physical size. More active or anxious birds may benefit from even larger cages. However, no bird should have less than the minimum recommended size regardless of their activity level.
How do I know if my bird's cage is too small?
Warning signs include: feather plucking, excessive screaming, obesity, inability to fully extend wings, tail feathers bent or broken from touching cage bottom, repetitive behaviors (pacing, head bobbing), aggression, or reluctance to move. If you see these signs, your cage is likely inadequate.
Are there any birds that can live in small cages?
No bird should permanently live in a "small" cage. Even the smallest species like finches and canaries need adequate flight space. The smallest appropriate cages are for single finches (minimum 18"L x 18"W x 18"H), and they still benefit greatly from larger enclosures. "Starter" and "travel" cages are only suitable for temporary transport, never permanent housing.