Inside or outside: where do you place an aviary?
, 11 min reading time
#VALUE!
An aviary gives birds a safe and spacious environment to live and fly — but the location you choose has a direct impact on the wellbeing, health and behaviour of your birds. Should you opt for an indoor aviary or an outdoor aviary? Or is a combination of both the best solution? The right choice depends on the species of birds you keep, the space available and the conditions in your garden or home. In this article, we cover the advantages and disadvantages of each option, what to look out for when choosing a location and how to create a safe and comfortable environment for your birds.
What is an aviary?
An aviary is a large cage or enclosed space specially designed for keeping birds. Unlike a small birdcage, an aviary provides enough room to fly, which is essential for the wellbeing of most bird species. Aviaries come in a wide range of sizes and styles — from a compact indoor aviary for inside the home to a large outdoor aviary in the garden. The location and type of aviary largely determine how comfortably and healthily your birds can live.
Why is the location of an aviary so important?
The location of an aviary determines not only the comfort of your birds, but also their health and lifespan. The wrong spot — too much direct sunlight, too much draught or too close to predators — can lead to stress, illness and behavioural problems in birds.
- Temperature: Birds are sensitive to extreme cold or heat. The right location offers protection against temperature fluctuations.
- Protection from predators: An outdoor aviary in particular must be secure against cats, martens and birds of prey.
- Daylight: Natural light is essential for the wellbeing of birds, but direct intense sunlight should be avoided.
- Noise and stress: Busy, noisy environments significantly raise the stress levels of birds.
Advantages and disadvantages of an indoor aviary
Advantages
- Constant temperature: Indoors it is easier to keep the temperature stable, which is especially important for exotic bird species.
- Protection from predators: No risk from cats, martens or other external threats.
- Less maintenance: Indoor aviaries are less exposed to rain, wind and dirt.
- More control: You have full control over light, temperature and ventilation.
Disadvantages
- Limited space: Indoor aviaries are generally smaller than outdoor aviaries, which means less flying space.
- Less natural light: Artificial light is not a full substitute for natural sunlight.
- Smell and noise: Birds kept indoors can cause odour and noise nuisance.
Advantages and disadvantages of an outdoor aviary
Advantages
- More space: Outdoor aviaries are often larger, giving birds more flying space and freedom of movement.
- Natural light: Birds have access to real sunlight, which is essential for vitamin D production and general wellbeing.
- Fresh air: Outdoor air promotes wellbeing and is in keeping with the natural habitat of birds.
- No indoor nuisance: Smell, noise and dirt stay outside.
Disadvantages
- Weather conditions: Rain, wind, frost and intense sun require additional protective measures.
- Predator risk: An outdoor aviary must be well secured against cats, martens and birds of prey.
- More maintenance: Outdoor aviaries require more upkeep due to weather exposure and dirt.
Comparison table: indoor aviary vs outdoor aviary
| Feature | Indoor aviary | Outdoor aviary |
|---|---|---|
| Space | Limited | More generous |
| Natural light | Limited | Optimal |
| Temperature control | Easy | Requires additional measures |
| Predator risk | None | Present — additional security required |
| Maintenance | Low | Medium to high |
| Suitable for exotic birds | Yes | Depends on species |
What to look out for when choosing a location
Whether you choose an indoor or outdoor aviary, the location is crucial. Consider the following factors:
- Shelter: Choose a spot that offers protection against wind and rain, but still has adequate ventilation.
- Daylight: Birds need daily access to light, but avoid spots with constant shade or intense sun all day long.
- Safety: Do not place the aviary near busy roads or other stressful environments.
- Noise level: Avoid locations with a lot of noise, such as machinery or heavy traffic.
- Accessibility: Choose a spot where you can easily reach the aviary for daily feeding, water changes and cleaning.
Step by step: choosing the right location for your aviary
- Determine the type of birds: Exotic or heat-loving birds do better indoors; native species generally tolerate an outdoor aviary well.
- Assess the available space: Choose a location with sufficient room for the desired aviary size — birds need flying space.
- Check light and shade: The location should receive morning sun but offer shelter from intense heat in the afternoon.
- Assess the predator risk: Check whether cats, martens or birds of prey are active in the area and adapt the security accordingly.
- Check wind and draught: Choose a sheltered spot or plan a windbreak on the windward side of the aviary.
- Consider a combination aviary: Connect an indoor space to an outdoor aviary via a hatch or tunnel for maximum flexibility.
Tips for an indoor aviary
- Ensure sufficient daylight by positioning the aviary near a window, but avoid direct sunlight that heats up the interior.
- Use a UV lamp specially designed for birds to support a healthy day-night rhythm.
- Ensure adequate ventilation in the room but prevent draught blowing directly on the birds.
- Clean the indoor aviary regularly to prevent odour and bacterial build-up.
Tips for an outdoor aviary
- Use a polycarbonate or felt roof to protect birds from rain and direct sunlight.
- Use wire mesh with small openings — a maximum of 1 x 1 cm — to keep predators out and prevent escape.
- Provide a sheltered night house with extra insulation for cold nights and winter months.
- Bury the wire mesh at least 20 to 30 cm in the ground to prevent predators from digging underneath.
- Regularly check the mesh and locks for wear or damage.
The combination aviary: the best of both worlds
A combination of an indoor and outdoor aviary offers birds maximum freedom and protection. Birds can choose for themselves where they want to be depending on the weather and their needs, while you retain control over safety and comfort.
- Connect an indoor space to an outdoor aviary via a tunnel or hatch.
- Use sturdy materials for both the indoor and outdoor sections.
- Ensure a well-secured transition so birds cannot escape and predators cannot enter.
- Automatically close the outdoor section in extreme cold or storms via an automatic hatch.
Frequently asked questions about aviary location
Can an aviary stay outside all year round?
Yes, provided the aviary has a sheltered night house with insulation and the wire mesh is resistant to frost and wind. For tropical bird species, an outdoor aviary in winter is not suitable without additional heating.
How do I protect an outdoor aviary from cats and martens?
Use wire mesh with openings of a maximum of 1 x 1 cm and secure it firmly to the frame. Bury the mesh at least 20 to 30 cm in the ground to prevent digging. Check regularly for weak spots.
How much daylight does an aviary need?
Most bird species need 10 to 12 hours of light per day for a healthy biological rhythm. Ensure indirect exposure to natural light — direct intense sun all day is harmful and can cause overheating.
What is better for birds: indoors or outdoors?
It depends on the species. Native species thrive in an outdoor aviary with adequate protection. Exotic or heat-loving birds are better suited to an indoor aviary or combination aviary where the temperature can be kept stable.
How large does an aviary need to be?
The minimum size depends on the species and the number of birds. As a general rule: the bigger the better. For an indoor aviary, sufficient flying space is especially important as birds have no access to an outdoor area — consult species-specific guidelines for exact minimum dimensions.
Indoors or outdoors — what suits you?
Choose an indoor aviary if:
- you keep exotic or heat-loving bird species
- you have little outdoor space or live in a flat
- you want maximum control over temperature and safety
- you want to observe the birds daily from inside the home
Choose an outdoor aviary if:
- you keep native or weather-hardy bird species
- you have sufficient garden or outdoor space
- you want to give your birds maximum flying space and natural light
- you want to avoid smell and noise indoors
Common mistakes
- Placing the aviary in full sun without any shade option
- Using wire mesh with openings that are too large, allowing predators to get in
- Not providing a night house for an outdoor aviary in winter
- Positioning the aviary too close to a busy road or noise source
- Forgetting to bury the wire mesh in the ground for an outdoor aviary
At Doika, we are happy to help you find the right aviary for your birds and situation.
Why Doika?
Doika specialises in high-quality aviaries and has extensive experience with the requirements that indoor and outdoor aviaries must meet for a safe and comfortable living environment. We are happy to help you choose an aviary that suits your bird species, space and wishes. For questions about sizes, materials or installation, our customer service team is always on hand.
Conclusion
Whether you choose an indoor aviary, an outdoor aviary or a combination of both — the location and setup determine the wellbeing of your birds. An indoor aviary offers more control and protection; an outdoor aviary gives birds more space and natural light. Browse the full range of aviaries at Doika and find the best solution for your birds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an aviary stay outside all year round?
Yes, provided the aviary has a sheltered night enclosure with insulation and the mesh is resistant to frost and wind. For tropical bird species, an outdoor aviary is not suitable in winter without extra heating.
How do I protect an outdoor aviary from cats and martens?
Use mesh with small openings of no more than 1 x 1 cm and attach it securely to the frame. Bury the mesh at least 20 to 30 cm into the ground to prevent digging underneath. Check regularly for weak spots.
How much daylight does an aviary need?
Most bird species need 10 to 12 hours of light per day for a healthy biorhythm. Provide indirect exposure to natural light — direct bright sun all day is harmful and can cause overheating.
What is better for birds: indoors or outdoors?
That depends on the bird species. Native species thrive well in an outdoor aviary with enough protection. Exotic or heat-loving birds do better in an indoor aviary or combination aviary where the temperature can be kept stable.
How big should an aviary be?
The minimum size depends on the bird species and the number of birds. As a general guideline: the bigger, the better. For an indoor aviary, sufficient flying space is especially important because birds do not have access to an outdoor area — consult species-specific guidelines for the exact minimum dimensions.
Latest blogs
-
9 Common Mistakes When Buying Bronze Statues in 2026 (And How to Avoid Them)
-
The Biggest Mistakes with Planters and How to Avoid Them (2026 Guide)
-
10 common firewood storage mistakes you absolutely must avoid in 2026
