temperature changes

[javabuzz553]

Could someone please tell me what the temperature range is for keeping birds in an aviary. We just recently got a pair of Greys and I also have other breeds of birds, but I do not know what is too cold. I know that they should not be in an over 90 condtition, but what about the cold low. Please advise. Thank you Javabuzz

[The Outlaw]

If you just got your birds, you really can't acclimate them this season. Birds can live between 65 degrees to 90 degrees F. However, at either end of that number, they will be stressed. Birds allowed to acclimate over many months can actually live outdoors in many temperate climates year round so long as shelter from the elements is provided and a good heat source. This, of course, is only for younger and healthy birds. Also, outdoor birds must also have access to water to bath. Without water to bath in, they can't keep their feathers clean and fluffy enough to insulate themselves. Obviously, plucked birds cannot be left outside. They have no protection whatsover.

Ideally, most tropical species should be maintained between 70 and 80 degrees, just like most humans prefer.

[javabuzz553]

Thank you Outlaw that is exactly what I needed to know. I have had my greys for about 2 1/2 months, they are 9 and 10 years old and I have them in the aviary now but the weather is getting colder at night, in the 50's. They have complete shelter but the building is metal and loses alot of heat at night. We are in Arizona, so the day time temp has still been in the 90's. I worry that the drastic temp change from day to night is too hard on them. We are in the process of building a new aviary that is better insulated so hopefully that will help alot. Again thanks for the information. It is really appreciated. Java