We have a large outdoor avairy - 9m x 4m - in which we have 12 budgies. After much deliberation and preperation, we would like to try and breed 2 pairs, which would mean catching 4 of our clever friends to place in the breeding cages that we have also built....they are 1m sq with a breeding box attached to the side.

 

I absolutely hate stressing our beloved pets - so what should I do? I can't see myself running up and down like a madwoman, with a butterfly net in my hands....so would it be better to use a large cotton sheet and gently lower the cover over the flock that we have cornered?

 

Is there a better way? Is there a right way?

 

Thanks in advance of any advice - most greatfully received.

Unfortunately there is alot of practice involved in catching birds in an aviary. I use a large net (like a large butterfly net), I wait until they are settled in a spot where there is only a limitted way they can go to get away and then I put one hand up to encourage them to fly off, then as they fly off I flick the net up and in they go... It is best if you can get a padded net, that way if they accidentally hit the frame they are less likely to inure themselves. You can limit flying space by puttin branches up high in one corner

I use a large net too and normally catch birds in flight or when hanging on the wire.

I just recently caught every single one of my birds (about 40) and moved them into a different aviary as they all got treated for feather mites. It was a tough job, but these things have to be done.

 

I would recommend you catch your birds at least once a month to check them over for weight, mites, poopy vents etc.

Unfortunately there is alot of practice involved in catching birds in an aviary. I use a large net (like a large butterfly net), I wait until they are settled in a spot where there is only a limitted way they can go to get away and then I put one hand up to encourage them to fly off, then as they fly off I flick the net up and in they go... It is best if you can get a padded net, that way if they accidentally hit the frame they are less likely to inure themselves. You can limit flying space by puttin branches up high in one corner

I also catch my birds in this way

I do as those has said above, I find the best way to do it is convince them onto the wire and put the net over them.

I do the same as well- use a net - It's all in the wrist