Bird Cage Size Requirement Calculator
Calculate the minimum safe cage size for your bird. Includes bar spacing and accessory recommendations.
How many birds will live in the cage
What is the minimum cage size for my bird?
Minimum cage sizes by bird type: Finches/Canaries: 18×18×18 inches per bird. Parakeets: 18×18×24 inches. Cockatiels: 24×24×24 inches. Conures: 24×24×30 inches. African Greys: 36×36×48 inches. Amazons: 36×36×48 inches. Cockatoos: 48×48×60 inches. Macaws: 48×48×72 inches (larger is better). These are MINIMUMS - bigger is always better.
How do I calculate cage size for multiple birds?
Add 50% more space per additional bird of the same species. Two parakeets need 1.5x single cage volume. Two cockatiels need cage 50% wider. For finches (colony birds), add 6 inches of width per additional bird. Large parrots should generally not be housed multiple per cage unless breeding - they're territorial. Always provide multiple perches at different heights.
Why is bar spacing important?
Bar spacing is critical for safety. Too wide = bird escapes or gets head stuck. Too narrow = feet get caught. Safe spacing: 3/8 inch for finches/canaries, 1/2 inch for parakeets, 5/8-3/4 inch for cockatiels/conures, 3/4-1 inch for African Greys/Amazons, 1-1.5 inch for cockatoos/macaws. Horizontal bars allow climbing exercise.
Does my bird need a square or tall cage?
Most parrots need width over height - they fly horizontally, not vertically. Minimum width should allow full wingspan without touching sides. Height should allow highest perch below top (heat rises). Finches/canaries benefit from flight cages (long and wide). Avoid round cages - they disorient birds and don't provide corner security.