FINCHforum

Is mesh of said size fine for finches 4" and larger? (ie, societies, zebras, owls)

The aviary is outdoors in a screened patio.

All my aviaries are 1/2 inch x 1/2 inch and I haven't had a problem yet. I keep forbes, owls, gouldians and diamond doves.
I've been told 1/4 inch is better to keep the small snakes out though I haven't had a predator problem with the 1/2".

Good to hear, thanks!

I would use 1/4 inch especially with Florida snakes, mice and raccoons.

I used 1/2 inch mesh in my outdoor aviary with no problems.

Paradise Aviary wrote: Jon

Since you live in Florida you have to be careful specially with snakes. I've heard of a coupe of times when corn snakes have made there way into the aviary and killed some birds. 1/4 would be the best mesh size to use in my opinion.

Honeslty, being an avid breeder of snakes, I WISH I could say I've seen a snake other than a black racer here, but I haven't. I guess I live too far into the suburbs for more forest dwelling species like a corn snake. Also note that my patio is screened. ;) I was more worried about if 1/2 is too big for finches.

If they are on the lania, I agree 1/2 inch is fine. I have had corn snakes get into the lania and into nest boxes.

Only 1/4" will definitely keep out snakes, but it is a lot more expensive than 1/2", and with your situation, I would think you would be OK with 1/2". That size would even work for the smaller waxbills, especially inside a screened porch.