Bird cage facts for kids
A bird cage is like a special home designed to keep a bird safe and sound. People often use bird cages to keep pet birds, such as a parakeet or a canary, inside their homes. These cages are usually made from strong metal wire.
What's Inside a Bird Cage?
A bird cage comes with many things a pet bird needs. You'll find dishes for bird seed and water, and often a cuttlebone. A cuttlebone is a natural source of calcium that helps keep a bird's beak healthy. Cages also have fun toys like small bells and mirrors to keep birds entertained. Inside, there are also perches, which are like little branches for the bird to sit and rest on.
Bird cages can be placed in different ways. Some are designed to hang from the ceiling, while others sit on a special stand on the floor. To keep the cage clean, the bottom is usually lined with paper. This paper helps to soak up any bird droppings or water spills, making it easier to tidy up.
Choosing the Right Cage Size
When picking a bird cage, size matters a lot! Generally, the bigger the bird, the larger its cage needs to be. Think about it: a big bird needs more room to move around comfortably.
Also, if a bird spends most of its time inside the cage, it will need an even bigger space. This gives the bird more room to fly, play, and stretch its wings. For birds that are breeding, the cage might need extra space for a nest. This helps them feel safe and comfortable while raising their young.
Images for kids
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Two children with a parrot cage (painting by Georg Friedrich Kersting, around 1835)
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A British birdcage from around 1750, made of mahogany and brass. It is about 217.8 cm (85.7 in) tall and is displayed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.
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Birdcages used in the public artwork called Forgotten Songs in Sydney, Australia.
