If your idea of a bird cage is a sad metal box in the corner of the porch, you need to see the ultimate outdoor bird enclosure that TikToker The Green Juan made. Birds are not just pets—they’re feathered drama queens, gymnasts, and opera singers rolled into one. They deserve more than a perch and a tray.
It’s part garden, part jungle gym, part spa, and yes, you can build it yourself. Here’s how to pull off such a masterpiece.
1. Build a Strong Skeleton
They used a strong metal structure that would withstand wind, curious cats, and that one cousin who always leans on things he shouldn’t. A metal frame is ideal—durable, weather-resistant, and not prone to spontaneous wobbling. Wrap it in wire mesh to keep birds in and predators out. Cover the roof with mesh too, so the birds get sunlight without becoming snacks.
And don’t go tiny. Give your birds space to fly, hop, and throw tiny tantrums in peace. A walk-in design works best; it makes cleaning days better and your thinking strolls better.
2. Build Some Walls, But Make Them Bloom
Instead of closing up all the sides with mesh alone, get creative. Coconut fiber mats or liners—yes, the same ones used in hanging baskets—can be attached to parts of the cage wall. They give your birds privacy while acting as planters. Stuff them with trailing flowers, herbs, or even leafy greens, and let nature do the decorating.
Leave some panels open to let in sunshine and fresh air. You want that perfect balance of cute hideout and sunny perch.
3. Give the Birds Furniture They’ll Actually Use
Skip the sad, lone perch. Go all-in with wooden bars, chunky branches, and tree stumps that let your birds climb, swing, and pose like the little acrobats they are. Hang the wooden bars at different heights and angles for variety.
Pop in upright logs or thick branches on the floor for ground-level exploring. These double as foot workout stations and bragging spots when birds need to show off. The more levels you give them, the happier—and busier—they’ll be.
4. Add a Water Feature
A simple DIY fountain made from stacked stones can turn this from a cage to paradise. Use a small solar-powered pump and a shallow basin, and suddenly you’ve got ambient garden noise and a bird bath all in one.
If you want to be extra, toss in a couple of goldfish. Stick to birds known to coexist with tank mates such as budgies, finches, and doves.
5. Flowers, Plants, and Hanging Gardens Galore
Hang planters from the roof mesh, dangle vines from bars, and let some foliage grow wild (but safe) inside the cage. Use bird-friendly plants like nasturtiums, marigolds, or basil—pretty to look at and perfectly nibble-able.
Layer it so your birds have visual interest at all levels: some flowers at the top, herbs at mid-level, and maybe a groundcover or two (hello, creeping thyme!) underfoot. It turns the whole space into a multisensory playground.
6. Choose Your Birds Well
Parrots are the drama queens. Finches are the fast-talking extras. Doves are the chill best friends. Choose birds that can share a space peacefully and that won’t terrorize the fish. Some parrots are curious but polite, while others might see sushi. Some birds thrive in groups; others want their own dressing room.
Also, consider the noise level and the care needs. This enclosure is beautiful, but it’s still a commitment. Don’t adopt a diva if you’re not ready for the backstage demands.
Want more birds without the need for a cage? Here are some favorite backyard birds you can attract.
Is It Worth the Effort?
If you like the idea of turning your garden into a living, chirping, flower-filled retreat, then yes. This kind of outdoor bird cage is a functional piece of living art. It gives your birds the life they deserve, and it gives you a reason to actually spend time in your backyard.
It’ll definitely make you the most interesting house on the block: bird opera at 6 a.m., floral walls, and a fish pond.