Building Indoor Aviary

[Lacybug]

So, these questions have probably been answered 100 times, but I'm a worrywart and want to double check on here!

I'm wanting to build my zebra finches an indoor aviary (something like 3' long x 1 & 1/2' wide x 4' tall), and I'm a little concerned/confused about what supplies to use. I've heard different stories about galvanized wire, so I just don't think I'll be going with that... But if I do, soaking it in vinegar and painting it with bird-safe paint will make it ok? I'm also having to keep in mind that I have a parrot now as well, and while she's not allowed near the finch cage, she's naughty and very curious about them, and I don't want anything to cause her harm if she does indeed get her mouth on it.

One alternative I've come up with is using screening meant for covering windows or keeping mosquitoes out such as this:
http://www.homedepot.com/b/Doors-Window ... 5yc1vZbch7
Would that be safe for birds? I've heard aluminum is safe from some people, while others have told me it's toxic. What about fiberglass? I'm not needing it to be too strong because I'm not having to worry about predators and stuff.

Secondly, there is the plastic mesh. I just don't know what to go with. I really don't want to order something online to have it shipped to me, so being able to get it in a store is necessary.

What would you use?

Another thing I'm wondering about is feeding doors and the tray for the bottom. Anyone have any ideas? Thanks!

[finchandlovebird]

I hope someone gives you links to previous posts on this subject; it's a super endeavor & many people have done tons of different things; this forum is a great place to learn.

[dutch]

Lacybug.....galv wire is fine....just wash it with vinegar once...then wash it down with water and wire is safe to use.....no need to paint it

[Toddmin]

Definitely don't use the mosquito screening. They could get their nails hung in it and be injured.

[Lacybug]

dutch
Is that what you use for your birds?

[Sally]

Galvanized wire is fine, that is what most people use on outdoor aviaries. Do as dutch says, that vinegar wash removes the zinc from the wire. On indoor aviaries, you can use the plastic mesh. I had black 1/2"x1/2" plastic mesh when I had an indoor aviary. The only downside to plastic mesh is that it is a bit harder to get taut on the frame.

There are many threads on here about people building flight cages, small aviaries, etc. I just don't have time to search for them right now.