An aviary provides a controlled environment for pheasants, mimicking their natural habitat to support health and well-being. A well-designed enclosure allows these birds to thrive, offering space for natural behaviors like foraging, dust bathing, and flight. Constructing a suitable aviary is a significant but rewarding investment in pheasant welfare.
Designing and Building the Aviary
Adequate aviary size is a primary consideration, preventing stress and aggression among birds. For a pair, a minimum of 10 feet long, 6 feet wide, and 6 feet high is recommended for natural movement and enrichment. Larger setups benefit multiple pairs or chicks, reducing territorial stress and encouraging healthier interaction. GameBirdExpert.com suggests providing at least 15 to 20 square feet per bird.
Selecting appropriate construction materials is important for durability and security. Galvanized wire mesh, with gaps no larger than 0.5 inches, keeps out predators like snakes, rats, and birds of prey. For side wiring, 18 to 20 gauge galvanized wire with 1-inch mesh is used. Wooden or metal frames provide structural support.
Predator-proofing techniques protect pheasants from external threats. Wire mesh should cover all sides, including the roof. To prevent burrowing predators like foxes or dogs, bury the mesh at least 12 inches underground along the perimeter, flared outward. A double-entry system adds an extra layer of security, and doors should have secure locks to prevent unauthorized access.
Furnishing the Aviary Interior
Creating a stimulating interior environment involves elements that cater to a pheasant’s natural instincts. Perches of varying heights and diameters allow pheasants to roost and observe surroundings. While pheasants may not always use elevated perches, they often seek out the highest available spot.
Shelter areas offer protection from adverse weather conditions like rain, wind, or cold, and provide privacy. A simple wooden coop or raised box-like structure serves this purpose, lined with straw, hay, or wood shavings for warmth and comfort. Ensuring parts of the aviary offer natural sunlight while others provide shade helps regulate temperature.
Dust bathing is a natural hygiene behavior for pheasants, helping maintain feather cleanliness and control parasites. A designated dry, sandy corner should be allocated for this activity, using natural soil or sand as flooring. Adding dry leaves, straw, and grass to the ground simulates forest litter, which encourages foraging behavior.
Nesting areas offer privacy and security for hens. Many hens prefer to lay eggs on the ground, so suitable ground-level areas are needed. Adding branches in shelter corners creates secluded spots. If nest boxes are used, they can be placed approximately 4 feet high. Soft wood shavings or clean sand can be used as nesting material to cushion eggs and keep them clean.
Food and water stations should be placed in easily accessible locations. They must be kept clean to prevent contamination.
Ongoing Care and Management
Routine cleaning and hygiene practices maintain a healthy aviary environment. Substrate, such as soil or sand, should be regularly replaced or refreshed to prevent waste buildup and potential pathogens. Disinfection of shelters, feeders, and waterers helps to control bacteria and parasites.
Pheasants require a specific diet tailored to their age and life stage. Commercially developed pellets ensure they receive adequate protein. Mature pheasants need a diet with around 17% protein, while chicks and young pheasants require a higher 28% in initial stages. Supplementing their diet with leafy greens (spinach, dandelion) and fruits (black currants, pineapple, tomatoes) provides additional vitamins and fiber.
Monitoring pheasant health involves observing for signs of illness, including changes in activity, appetite, feather condition, or droppings. Prompt identification of common ailments allows for timely intervention. Enrichment activities, such as varied foraging opportunities or new structures, prevent boredom and promote natural behaviors.
For breeding, well-nourished adult pheasants produce healthy eggs and embryos. Hens should be on breeder pellets, fortified with calcium, at least six weeks before they begin laying. Recognizing breeding behaviors helps prepare for egg collection. Eggs should be collected daily for cleanliness, freshness, and to reduce breakage or egg eating. Initial incubation considerations include maintaining specific temperature and humidity levels, with daily egg rotation recommended if stored before incubation.