Heat lamps for indoor aviary?

[mystica]

I have built a 6 x 12 indoor aviary for my gouldians. It is inside so temp controlled, but has two windows and even though I will winterproof those I feel like they would be more comfortable with a couple of heat lamps at night. Can those be hung directly inside the aviary? Does anyone have any ideas for placing them so that the heat radiates to them but they can't get to the actual bulbs? I have the black plastic hardware cloth on the outside. I'm wondering if it would melt that if I try to place it outside the aviary but close enough to benefit them.

[debbie276]

It is perfectly normal for the birds to have cooler temperatures at night then during the day. But, if you want to add heat you might want to consider ceramic heat bulbs like these, http://www.thatpetplace.com/ceramic-hea ... d=26456243 They must be used with a clamp lamp or reflector dome that has a porcelain socket. You could wrap wire around the bottom of the reflector dome so the birds can't get to the bulb and hang it over a favorite perch. When they want the heat they would go under it and still be able to get away from the heat if need be.

[mystica]

What would you consider acceptable temps? I keep the house at about 70 in the winter, but I know it gets chillier than that in their area just because of the windows. Thanks!

[debbie276]

When you say you winterize the windows do you mean wrap them in plastic or something like that so that drafts do not come from them? As long as there are no drafts you should be fine. How big of a temperature drop are you talking about?
Acceptable temperatures for mine that are outside are as high as 100F to a low of 55F but they are used to that.

[Angeldov222]

i have a floor lamp which i can direct the lighting .............it has 3 lighting fixtures, .............i put heat bulbs into each socket..........it works well

[mystica]

Yes, plastic over the windows to prevent drafts. I don't think it would ever get to below 60, so I guess they will be okay. Thanks!