in over all in that design i put forward it is going to measure 12feet X 12 feet! and that will include the bird shed!

If it's your intention to have the pool half way under the aviary I would rethink it.I know it's a nice idea and can be seen in some public aviaries but deep pools are unwise with birds that often drown.Droppings will contaminate the water.And a leak of water can leave an escape route.As I've said I wouldn't worry about the sun...not in this country.

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Those are some nice aviary pictures posted. I appreciate all the good tips too. I raise horses but my wife wants me to build an aviary for her because she loves birds. It's not something that I'm keen on doing because I really have my hands full already. I'll probably do it to make her happy though. Thanks for the thoughts on an adequate size for small birds. It gives me a better idea of what's involved. If I really get into it I may even have more horses for sale.