window screens..

[dawn23]

Hello everyone, I want to find a way i can leave my outward facing windows open when the birds are out. I have been looking at retractable bug screens that fit above the window and pull down with the edges inside a channel fitted to the window recess.  They seal the whole recess so would prevent the birds flying out. However, I am worried that the birds may get their claws caught in the screening material.  Can anyone advise on this. I guess those of you in countries where  screens are commonly used will have more idea about any risks and perhaps ways round them.  Any thoughts appreciated.

[Loz]

I've recently purchases nets from Flat Cats. These are mosquito nets that fit your windows and are attached to the frame using self-adhesive velcro strips.

I cannot currently report on the OP's concerns as so far I have only fitted the screens to a window with net curtains. That said, I have never had an issue with the net curtains themselves where a budgie has been stuck and could not escape on their own.

I am about to fit a screen to the kitchen window (when the screen arrives!) which has no nets. I will soon find out how the budgies fare with it.

[dawn23]

Thanks for responding Loz, My windows are not suitable for the velcro strip solution otherwise I think it might have been a simpler option. I will be interested to know how you fare with your kitchen screen when it arrives though.

[Hezz]

May 30, 2024 11:13:27 GMT dawn23 said:

Hello everyone, I want to find a way i can leave my outward facing windows open when the birds are out. I have been looking at retractable bug screens that fit above the window and pull down with the edges inside a channel fitted to the window recess.  They seal the whole recess so would prevent the birds flying out. However, I am worried that the birds may get their claws caught in the screening material.  Can anyone advise on this. I guess those of you in countries where  screens are commonly used will have more idea about any risks and perhaps ways round them.  Any thoughts appreciated.

There is no safety issue with using fly screens over your windows. The only thing with nylon fly screens is that they are not terribly thick or robust if you have a committed chewer in the shape of a budgie hen. Generally the budgies don’t bother them but I have had hens who, if left to their own devices, can, will, and have chewed holes in the mesh. Actually on second thoughts, not only the hens - I’ve had a male do so as well.

Depending on where in the world you are, you should be able to get a product that is designed to withstand the claws of cats and dogs as well as exclude insects. Where I am it is called “Petmesh” and even my conure’s big(ger) beak has not managed to make a hole in it in spite of his best efforts.

[dawn23]

Many thanks Hezz, This not only answers my original question but also gives a solution to the chewing issue (which I admit I had not even considered). I'm in the UK and have seen pet mesh mentioned on several supplier sites so that is the way I will go. Just need to find a supplier who will measure and fit now as I am not confident I would be able to DIY it.

[Marianne Marlow]

I'd be terrified that one of my hens would get through the mesh and escape, they bite everything.

I have screens that my husband and I made, I do wonder if there is a such product already made up. If not there is a gap in the market!

[Hezz]

May 31, 2024 9:20:15 GMT dawn23 said:

Many thanks Hezz, This not only answers my original question but also gives a solution to the chewing issue (which I admit I had not even considered). I'm in the UK and have seen pet mesh mentioned on several supplier sites so that is the way I will go. Just need to find a supplier who will measure and fit now as I am not confident I would be able to DIY it.

Any window fitter should be able to do this in such a way that you have access to opening and closing the windows as well. I think there are a number of different ways this could be done. Good luck; Petmesh is definitely the way to go.