7 Essential Supplies Every Aviary Keeper Forgets (Until They Need Them!)

Whether you’re a seasoned bird enthusiast or just starting with your aviary, there’s always something you overlook until you’re scrambling at the last minute to address it. As rewarding as maintaining an aviary can be, it comes with its fair share of unexpected challenges. To save you from unnecessary headaches (and emergency runs to the shop!), here are 7 must-have supplies that every aviary keeper often forgets about but desperately needs when the moment strikes.

It’s easy to focus on buying the perfect food mix for your birds – but what about storing it? Many aviary keepers forget about airtight food storage containers, which are essential for preserving freshness and keeping pests, like insects or rodents, away. In humid climates, containers that prevent mould and moisture buildup can be a lifesaver.

Trust us; your birds will thank you when their seed mix or pellets stay fresh and nutritious.

So, you’ve got your daily scoop or brush for managing droppings, but what happens when you need to deep clean the aviary? Many keepers find themselves unprepared for this task until it’s too late. Stock up on spare scrapers, disinfectant sprays, small sponges, and gloves so you’re ready to tackle any messes, from algae buildup on water bowls to stubborn perches caked in grime.

Pro Tip: Always use bird-safe cleaning solutions to avoid harming your aviary’s residents.

Emergencies can strike out of the blue, such as minor injuries or unexpected illnesses. A bird-specific first aid kit can be the difference between a calm response and a panic-stricken trip to the vet. Essentials like styptic powder (for bleeding), tweezers, antiseptic cream, and small bandages are key items that often go overlooked.

Birds rely heavily on perches for exercise, rest, and grooming, but these perches can break or become worn over time. Spare perches, especially of different shapes and sizes, ensure your aviary setup remains engaging and functional, not to mention your birds stay safe.

Natural wood perches are great, but consider adding textured or rotating designs to keep your aviary dynamic. It’s always smart to have replacements handy!

Even the most well-planned diets can leave nutritional gaps. Aviary enthusiasts often forget the importance of supplements to boost their birds’ immune systems, improve digestion, and support overall health.

One excellent option is Aviform Avian Supplements. Whether it’s maintaining vibrant feathers, improving digestion, or boosting overall vitality, Aviform offers specialised products tailored to the nutritional needs of pet and aviary birds. Adding these supplements to your routine can make a noticeable difference in your birds’ health and well-being, especially during times of stress like moulting or illness.

It’s something you might not think about until you urgently need it: a portable transport cage for moving ill or injured birds to the vet, or evacuating them in extreme weather. Lightweight, well-ventilated, and secure travel cages are indispensable for emergencies.

Having one on hand gives you peace of mind for any situation, whether it’s a last-minute vet trip or relocating the birds temporarily.

Enrichment is critical for preventing boredom and ensuring your birds stay happy and healthy. While most aviary keepers provide toys, not every toy suits every species. Aviary owners often forget to prepare species-specific toys that meet the behavioural needs of their feathered residents.

For example: