Parrot Cage Size Calculator

Parrot cage size is one of the most important factors in a pet bird’s health and happiness. A cage that is too small leads to stress, feather plucking, aggression, and health problems.

The general rule: The cage should be at least 1.5 times the bird’s wingspan in width, and at least 2 times the bird’s length (head to tail) in depth. Height should be at least 1.5 times the bird’s length.

Minimum cage sizes by species (W × D × H):

• Budgerigar (budgie): 18" × 18" × 18" (46 × 46 × 46 cm) — per bird
• Cockatiel: 24" × 18" × 24" (61 × 46 × 61 cm)
• Lovebird: 24" × 18" × 24" (61 × 46 × 61 cm) — per pair
• Conure (small): 24" × 24" × 30" (61 × 61 × 76 cm)
• Conure (large/Sun): 30" × 30" × 36" (76 × 76 × 91 cm)
• African Grey: 36" × 24" × 48" (91 × 61 × 122 cm)
• Amazon Parrot: 36" × 24" × 48" (91 × 61 × 122 cm)
• Cockatoo (medium): 36" × 24" × 48" (91 × 61 × 122 cm)
• Cockatoo (large): 40" × 30" × 60" (102 × 76 × 152 cm)
• Macaw (small/mini): 36" × 24" × 48" (91 × 61 × 122 cm)
• Macaw (large): 48" × 36" × 60" (122 × 91 × 152 cm)

These are minimums. Bigger is always better for parrots. The bird should be able to fully extend its wings without touching the sides.

Bar spacing matters too:

• Small birds (budgies, finches): 3/8" to 1/2" (10-13 mm)
• Medium birds (cockatiels, conures): 1/2" to 5/8" (13-16 mm)
• Large birds (African greys, Amazons): 3/4" to 1" (19-25 mm)
• Extra large birds (macaws, cockatoos): 1" to 1.5" (25-38 mm)

Bar spacing that is too wide can allow a bird to get its head stuck, causing injury or death.

Additional space considerations:

• Multiple birds need larger cages (add at least 50% per additional bird).
• Toys, perches, and food bowls take up space inside the cage.
• Daily out-of-cage time is essential regardless of cage size.