Setting Up the Interior

A well-designed aviary interior makes all the difference in keeping your budgies healthy, happy, and entertained. The right setup encourages natural behaviors like flying, perching, foraging, and socializing — while also keeping your flock safe and clean.

This page covers everything you need to create the perfect indoor environment for your budgies.

🪵 Choosing Perches

Perches are the most important fixtures in your aviary. Budgies need perches of various sizes and textures to exercise their feet and prevent pressure sores.

• Natural wood branches are best: they provide different diameters and textures. Avoid chemically treated wood.

• Include a mix of thin and thick perches (around 8–15mm diameter).

• Place perches at different heights and locations to encourage flying and climbing.

• Avoid perches directly above food or water bowls to prevent contamination.

• Smooth dowel perches can be used but shouldn’t be the only option.

🍽️ Food & Water Stations

• Use stainless steel or ceramic bowls for food and water — these are easy to clean and prevent bacteria buildup.

• Place food and water in multiple spots around the aviary to reduce competition.

• Keep fresh water available at all times and change it daily.

• Offer a variety of foods: seed mix, pellets, fresh veggies, and cuttlebone for calcium.

• Consider using foraging feeders or treat holders to stimulate natural searching behavior.

🧸 Toys & Enrichment

Budgies are intelligent and playful birds that need mental stimulation to avoid boredom and destructive behaviors.

• Add a range of toys such as swings, ladders, bells, and chewable wooden blocks.

• Rotate toys regularly to keep things interesting.

• Provide safe mirrors sparingly—too much mirror time can cause frustration or aggression.

• Forage toys and puzzles encourage natural behaviors and reduce stress.

• Incorporate natural elements like fresh branches or safe plants.

🛏️ Nesting & Resting Areas

Even if you’re not breeding, budgies appreciate having a quiet, sheltered place to rest.

• Provide nest boxes or covered huts in quiet corners of the aviary.

• Use soft, clean bedding like shredded paper or aspen shavings.

• Ensure the nesting/resting area is away from drafts and direct sunlight.

• Clean bedding frequently to maintain hygiene.

💨 Ventilation & Lighting

• Ensure good airflow throughout the aviary without drafts blowing directly on the birds.

• Provide natural light as much as possible — birds need UV light to synthesize vitamin D.

• If natural light is limited, consider full-spectrum bird-safe lighting.

• Avoid harsh, direct artificial lights at night — budgies need a dark, quiet environment to sleep.

⚠️ Safety Considerations Inside the Aviary

• Remove any sharp edges or loose wires that can injure birds.

• Avoid toxic plants or items treated with chemicals.

• Make sure toys and perches are securely attached.

• Clean the interior regularly to prevent mold, bacteria, and parasites.