Cage "depth" Question

[Mozelle]

I'm raising society finches, and rapidly running out of room (funny how that happens!) but have an idea of converting a cabinet/bookshelf into an enclosure. I know that length is most important for their flight and exercise, but what about depth? I don't want to restrict them, but realistically, what would be a good depth? I've seen bookcases converted, and I know they range from 12" - about 17" deep. One cabinet I was looking at is 40" wide, depth 15". Would that be acceptable?
I'm working on the ways to keep it well ventilated and clean, of course, but any suggestions are welcome (as always!)

Thanks!!

[L in Ontario]

I would think 15" would be okay for the depth. I really like the 40" width! How tall is it? Just curious.

[Mozelle]

Morning Liz

The units I've been looking at are typically about 6' high. There's often drawers or enclosed cabinet in the base (great for storage!). There are usually shelves in the upper area which I would remove leaving a space about 4' high (which in breeding season I would like to convert into 2 2' high sections.

There are some really lovely storage and china cabinets out there for less than a large cage, and converting them may be a bit of work - but I think it will look pretty good (well... hope... )

[L in Ontario]

Hi Tracy, I think those cabinets would be great for housing finches in. 2x2'high would be perfect! With solid sides and back - much less mess for you to clean up (unlike myself with wire cages and a HUGE mess all around).

Go get 'em!

[Mozelle]

LOL

yep - mess was a "bit" of a consideration

Once I've got one on the go I'll post pics.

[poohbear]

The carcass or cabinets made for kitchen units without fittings,drawers,or doors can be ideal for cage construction.They are usually available in white...easily assembled,and melamine faced...so easy clean.

[Mozelle]

That would be Great too - and more depth!

Even with the doors - just punch out the center panel, and replace it with mesh - and a nest box opening. Cleaning time and could just open those bit cupboard doors up...

Ohhhh... i can see it now! Back onto Kijiji!!

Thanks!

[hanauersandra]

This is a great idea. I've been mulling over in my mind using a bookcase/cabinetry type thing too and put mesh on the front. I may need sooner than later as my society family is growing. I'll keep my eye open at garage sales and maybe puruse craigslist. Home Depot may be a little costly. I was thinking of somehow putting the 'bookshelf' on a sofa table to lift it higher off the ground, but if I found like an entertainment center type set up with cabinetry at the bottom, that would be great. Of course we got rid of a perfectly good entertainment center at a garage sale we had a year ago...go figure....that was BF, before finches...

Its great looking at everyone's set ups.