Macaw cages have one thing in common – they’re all big. Stands to reason, because macaws are big birds for the most part; up to forty inches high, including the long tail. The largest is the Hyacinth Macaw with the Blue and Gold variety just a couple of inches shorter. Whichever you choose, your new pet is going to need a lot of space because macaws are friendly, active, exuberant – and very vocal. They can mimic human speech but not as well as African Greys, but even so, he’s loaded with personality and needs plenty of action and stimulation. And those activities take up space – which is why macaw cages are big, spacious and take up a considerable amount of room in your house. There is a wide choice of macaw cages online for you choose from, but there are a few essentials to keep in mind.
Choose from the largest macaw cages - at least 30” x 48” by 60” as you’ll be adding toys and food bowls to it. You’ll probably invest up to $2,000 for a good one. This is not something you want to replace frequently - quality macaw cages should last many years. It should be constructed of stainless or powdered-finish steel (avoid galvanized as it’s toxic) with the bars spaced from one inch to one and a half inches apart – very important otherwise you may have to deal with head, wing or tail injuries. Check that the hinges and lock mechanism are also of stainless steel as your macaw will investigate every square inch of his new home and will be doing quality control testing.
Macaw cages should be double-welded as he can exert pressure of up to 2000 pounds per square inch with that powerful beak. Consider getting a cage which you can roll around on casters from room to room, giving your macaw a change of scenery. It also makes taking care of the cage more convenient especially if there’s a removable tray at the bottom for cleaning. Macaw cages generally come fully furnished with perches but ensure that these are thick enough for his big feet and talons.
Then you’ll want to add some toys for him – these should be sturdy and tough. You can provide some plain wood blocks for him to chew on. Hang some braided cotton and wood blocks from the cage roof for him to investigate and chew – also terrific exercise for his feet. There is a huge variety of toys for macaw cages if you search online – bright, colorful and stimulating. There are even toys in which you can hide macaw treats for him to figure out.
Put two or three toys at a time in your macaw cages – each with a different function; chewing, climbing, hanging, etc. and change them before he gets bored. And he’ll need three heavy food dishes – for water, seed and soft foods and these should also be of stainless steel. Of course, his toys are no substitute for spending time with you. He needs affection and interaction with you and he’ll require daily freedom to fly around and exercise his wings in a bird-safe room. Enjoy your macaw – play with him, bond with him and teach him tricks and he will be a wonderful companion for many years to come!
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