Patent Publication Number: US-10779513-B2

Title: Aviary building construction system and method

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application claims priority to and is a continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/071,160, filed Nov. 4, 2013, and having the title “AVIARY CAGE WITH EGG AND MANURE REMOVAL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONSTRUCTING THE SAME,” U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/181,379, filed Feb. 14, 2014, and having the title “AVIARY CAGE,” U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/181,463, filed Feb. 14, 2014, and having the title “CAGE-FREE AVIARY,” U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/217,548, filed Mar. 18, 2014, and having the title “AVIARY CAGE WITH MANURE REMOVAL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONSTRUCTING THE SAME,” each of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE DISCLOSED EMBODIMENTS 
     The embodiments herein generally relate to aviaries and, more particularly, to a system and method for constructing an aviary. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSED EMBODIMENTS 
     Generally, aviaries are constructed as a building having a plurality of cage towers positioned therein. The cage towers include nesting areas for hens, as well as areas for the hens to scratch and peck. The cage towers are enclosed by the building to provide shelter for the hens. This shelter prevents the hens from wandering into the wild; protects the hens from animals outside the housing; protects the hens from dangerous weather, such as storms, excessive heat, excessive cold, and the like; and, in the case of laying hens, provides facilities for automated egg collection. Accordingly, it is important that the building be constructed safely to withstand the weather and keep the resident birds safe. 
     Typically, an aviary is constructed by first pouring a concrete foundation. The building is then constructed and secured to this foundation by building walls and securing them to the concrete. A roof is then constructed and secured to the walls. After construction of the building, the cage towers are constructed within the housing. Unfortunately, this method of constructing the aviary is slow and costly because the building requires its own support framework separate from the framework of the cage towers. A need remains for a system and method for constructing an aviary that permits speedy construction and reduces the building materials required, which speed and reduced building material requirements reduce the cost to build and maintain the aviary. 
     SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSED EMBODIMENTS 
     In one embodiment, a method of building an aviary is provided. The method includes providing a cage tower including a plurality of support members, a frame, at least one wall, and a roof. The method includes attaching the frame to the plurality of support members so that the frame is supported by and affixed to the plurality of support members. The method also includes attaching at least one of the at least one wall and the roof to the frame. 
     In one embodiment, a method of building an aviary is provided. The method includes providing a floor, at least one wall, a roof, a roof frame, at least one wall frame, and a cage tower including a plurality of support members. The method includes disposing the cage tower on the floor. The method includes attaching the roof frame to the plurality of support members so that the roof frame is supported by and affixed to the plurality of support members. The method further includes attaching the at least one wall frame to the roof frame. The cage tower is at least partially surrounded by the attached the roof frame and the at least one wall frame. Additionally, the method includes attaching the at least one wall to the at least one wall frame and attaching the roof to the roof frame. 
     In one embodiment, a method of building an aviary is provided. The method includes providing a floor, at least one wall, a roof, a roof frame, at least one wall frame, and a cage tower including a plurality of support members. The method includes disposing the cage tower on the floor. The method includes attaching the at least one wall frame to the plurality of support members so that the at least one wall frame is supported by and affixed to the plurality of support members. The method includes attaching the roof frame to the plurality of support members so that the roof frame is supported by and affixed to the plurality of support members. The method further includes attaching the roof frame to the at least one wall frame. The cage tower is at least partially surrounded with the roof frame and the at least one wall frame. Additionally, the method includes attaching the at least one wall to the at least one wall frame and attaching the roof to the roof frame. 
     In one embodiment, an aviary is provided that includes a floor and a cage tower disposed on the floor. The cage tower includes a plurality of support members. A roof frame is supported by and attached to the plurality of support members. At least one wall frame is attached to the plurality of support members. The cage tower is at least partially surrounded by the roof frame and the at least one wall frame. A wall is attached to the at least one wall frame and a roof is attached to the roof frame. 
     In one embodiment, an aviary is provided that includes a floor and a cage tower disposed on the floor. The cage tower includes a plurality of support members. At least one wall frame is supported by and attached to the plurality of support members. A roof frame is supported by and attached to the plurality of support members. The roof frame is attached to the at least one wall frame. The cage tower is at least partially surrounded by the roof frame and the at least one wall frame. A wall is attached to the at least one wall frame and a roof is attached to the roof frame. 
     Other embodiments are also disclosed. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS 
       The embodiments described herein and other features, advantages and disclosures contained herein, and the manner of attaining them, will become apparent and the present disclosure will be better understood by reference to the following description of various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawing, wherein: 
         FIG. 1  is a front view of an aviary cage formed in accordance with an embodiment. 
         FIG. 2  is a side view of the aviary cage shown in  FIG. 1  without the interior components of the cage towers. 
         FIG. 3  is a top perspective view of the aviary cage shown in  FIG. 1  without the interior components of the cage towers. 
         FIG. 4  is a front view of an aviary cage formed in accordance with another embodiment. 
         FIG. 5  is a side perspective view of a conventional egg finger belt. 
         FIG. 6  is a front view of an aviary cage formed in accordance with another embodiment. 
         FIG. 7  is a side view of the aviary cage shown in  FIG. 6  without the interior components of the cage towers. 
         FIG. 8  is a top perspective view of the aviary cage shown in  FIG. 6  without the interior components of the cage towers. 
         FIG. 9  is a top view of a mesh floor. 
         FIG. 10  is a front view of an aviary cage formed in accordance with another embodiment. 
         FIG. 11  is a front view of a gate formed in accordance with another embodiment. 
         FIG. 12  is a side perspective view of the gate shown in  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 13  is a front view of an aviary formed in accordance with another embodiment. 
         FIG. 14  illustrates a side view of a cage tower formed in accordance with another embodiment. 
         FIG. 15  is a front view of an aviary formed in accordance with another embodiment. 
         FIG. 16  is a side view of a cage in a cage tower shown in  FIG. 15 . 
         FIG. 17A  is a perspective top view of an egg collector formed in accordance with an embodiment. 
         FIG. 17B  is a perspective top view of an egg collector formed in accordance with another embodiment. 
         FIG. 18  is a front view of a gate formed in accordance with another embodiment. 
         FIG. 19  is a side perspective view of the gate shown in  FIG. 18 . 
         FIG. 20  illustrates a side perspective view of a cage tower formed in accordance with another embodiment. 
         FIG. 21  is a front view of an aviary formed in accordance with another embodiment. 
         FIG. 22  is a front view of an aviary formed in accordance with another embodiment. 
         FIG. 23  is a side view of an aviary cage in a cage tower shown in  FIG. 22 . 
         FIG. 24  is a front view of an aviary formed in accordance with another embodiment. 
         FIG. 25  is a side perspective view of an aviary cage shown in  FIG. 24 . 
         FIG. 26  is a side perspective view of a first aviary cage, a second aviary cage, and a scratching floor shown in  FIG. 24 . 
         FIG. 27  is a top view of a mesh floor. 
         FIG. 28  is an expanded view of a scratching floor, a grate, a side of an aviary cage, and a belt formed in accordance with an embodiment. 
         FIG. 29  is a front view of an aviary formed in accordance with an embodiment. 
         FIG. 30  is a side view of a cage tower formed in accordance with an embodiment. 
         FIG. 31  is a perspective view of a cage tower formed in accordance with an embodiment. 
         FIG. 32  illustrates a method for constructing an aviary. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSED EMBODIMENTS 
     For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the present disclosure, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of this disclosure is thereby intended. 
     The present embodiments provide aviaries having open space that may include a floor serving as a pecking area where hens can move freely, peck the floor with their beaks, and scratch the floor with their feet. By permitting space for the hens to move freely, the aviary cages of the present embodiments satisfy the requirements to be considered “cage free” birds. See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cage-free. In other words, the hens are not continuously confined to a caged area. The present embodiments allow the removal of freshly laid eggs, which eggs may be sold under the label “cage free” because they were laid outside of a nest box environment. The present embodiments also prevent eggs from becoming contaminated due to slow retrieval thereof from the scratching areas or cage floors (during which time the eggs could be infiltrated by bacteria). 
     Some embodiments include at least one belt extending through the cage tower below the nesting area to remove a deposit from at least part of the cage tower. A deposit may include, but is not limited to, one or more items such as manure, an egg, litter, feathers, feed, or a dead bird. In one embodiment, the belt extends through the cage tower along the length of the cage tower. In one embodiment, the belt extends approximately 400 feet along the length of the cage tower. In one embodiment, the belt carries manure from the cage tower to a collection area (not shown) positioned outside of the cage tower. By removing deposits, particularly manure, from at least part of the cage tower, ammonia levels within the aviary are significantly reduced. Additionally, the need for an individual to enter the cage and clean the cage by hand is greatly reduced. Accordingly, the present embodiments permit one person to care for 150,000 to 200,000 birds, compared with the 3-5 people per 150,000 to 200,000 birds required when known cages and aviaries are used. The present embodiments also eliminate the requirement for extreme body positions, including squatting for extended periods of time and crawling and lying on the floor while loading and unloading the cage and while gathering eggs from the cage. The present embodiments further reduce potential respiratory hazards and infection hazards to the workers. If a hen lays an egg outside of the nesting area, the egg will be collected by the belt and carried to an egg collection area (not shown) positioned outside of the cage tower. 
     It should be noted that the various elements of each of the embodiments described below may be combined in any manner to form new embodiments of an aviary. 
       FIGS. 1-3  illustrate an aviary  10  configured with a manure removal system  12  according to one embodiment. The aviary  10  may include a concrete floor  14  enclosed by exterior walls  16 . The exterior walls  16  enclose at least two cage towers  18  where hens may be caged. Although the present embodiment illustrates only two cage towers  18 , it should be noted that the aviary  10  may be constructed with any number of cage towers  18 , including a single cage tower  18 . An open space  20  extends between the two cage towers  18  to provide an inspection area. In an embodiment having more than two cage towers  18 , an open space  20  may extend between each adjacent cage tower  18 . In an embodiment having a single cage tower  18 , an open space  20  is present on at least one side of the cage tower  18 . In an embodiment, open space  20  is positioned between the cage tower  18  and the respective exterior wall  16 . 
     Each cage tower  18  includes at least one nesting area  22 . The nesting area  22 , as illustrated, may include various sloped nesting platforms  24  where a hen may sit to lay eggs. The nesting platforms  24  may be offset from sloped platforms  26  that allow the hens to move freely up and down the cage tower  18  to a desirable nesting area  22 . As the hens lay their eggs, the eggs are collected in egg conveyors  28  that extend along the sides of the nesting platforms  24 . The egg conveyors  28  carry the eggs from the nesting area  22  to a collection area. 
     In one embodiment, the belt  36  forms a floor of the cage tower  18 . Accordingly, the birds are allowed to move freely and walk on the belt  36 . In addition to collecting eggs and manure, the belt  36  may also remove dead birds from at least part of a cage tower  18 . The illustrated embodiment includes a belt  36  positioned beneath each nesting area  22 . In addition to the belts  36  positioned below the nesting area  22 , a belt  36  is likewise positioned above each nesting area  22 . The belts  36  above each nesting area  22  provide additional space for the hens to move freely. Deposits, which may include, but are not limited to, manure, eggs, litter, feathers, feed, or dead birds, within the aviary  10  are collected on the belts  36 . 
     In one embodiment, as illustrated in  FIGS. 11 and 12 , at least one gate  19  is positioned along each belt  36  to permit deposits on the belt  36  to pass thereunder and/or therethrough and to prevent birds from traveling beyond the gate. In the illustrated embodiment, the gate  19  includes plastic strips  21  extending downward from a solid partition  23 . In the illustrated embodiment, the plastic strips  21  may be positioned approximately 1½ inches from the belt  36 . If a deposit on the belt  36  in the illustrated embodiment is taller than the 1½ inch gap between the gate  19  and the belt  36 , then the plastic strips  21  move when in contact with such a deposit to allow the deposit to pass therethrough. In an embodiment, the gate  19  may be positioned so that its lower edge is in contact with the belt  36 . In an embodiment, the gate  19  may include plastic strips. In one embodiment, the gate  19  including plastic strips may be positioned so that the lower edges of the plastic strips are in contact with the belt  36 . In an embodiment, the gate  19  may include a hinged door that moves to permit deposits larger than a gap between the hinged door and the belt  36  to pass thereunder. In an embodiment, the gate  19  may comprise one or more hinged doors to permit deposits larger than a gap between the hinged doors and the belt  36  to pass thereunder. In an embodiment, the gate  19  may comprise one or more swinging doors to permit deposits larger than a gap between the swinging doors and the belt  36  to pass thereunder. In an embodiment, an electric fence may be positioned on the gate  19  to prevent live birds from entering the gate  19 . Alternately, an electric fence may be spaced apart from the gate  19  to prevent birds from reaching and entering the gate  19 . In embodiments including at least one gate  19 , birds are prevented from leaving a part of the aviary  10 , while deposits are permitted to travel away from that part of the aviary  10 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, a scratching floor  38  extends from the cage tower  18 . In some embodiments, the scratching floor is solid. In an embodiment having more than one cage tower  18 , a scratching floor  38  may extend between any adjacent cage towers  18 . Additionally, a scratching floor  38  may extend between the cage tower  18  and the respective exterior wall  16 . In an embodiment having more than two cage towers  18 , a scratching floor may extend from adjacent cage towers  18  but not be continuous between adjacent cage towers  18 . 
     The scratching floor  38  is oriented with respect to at least one belt  36 . In one embodiment, the scratching floor  38  is planar with a belt  36  from which the scratching floor  38  extends. Alternatively, the scratching floor  38  is sloped to allow deposits to move back toward the belt  36 , as shown in  FIG. 4 . The scratching floor  38  extends into the open space  20  of the aviary  10 . The scratching floor  38  provides yet another pecking area for the hens to utilize while they are not nesting. In particular, the scratching floor  38  provides a scratching area for the birds within the aviary  10 . When the birds scratch the scratching floor  38 , they scratch much of the deposits made on the scratching floor  38  onto the respective belt  36 . Accordingly, since it is common for birds to defecate in a scratching area, the scratching floor  38  becomes relatively self-cleaning as the hens scratch. The scratching floor  38  is configured so that the deposits are scratched back to the respective belt  36 . Such configuration greatly reduces the amount of ammonia captured within the aviary  10  and also reduces the required frequency for cleaning of the aviary  10 . Any eggs laid on the scratching floor  38  may be directed back toward the belt  36  by the scratching of the hens. These eggs are then collected on the belt  36  and removed from the belt  36 . In one embodiment, the eggs are removed through the use of any conventional egg finger belt  39 , shown in  FIGS. 2 and 5 , positioned at the end of the belt  36 . 
     It should be noted that the cage tower  18  illustrated includes two nesting areas  22  positioned in a stacked configuration. Each nesting area  22  may have its own belt  36  extending therebelow. Each belt  36  may be joined to a corresponding belt  36  of the adjacent cage tower  18  by a scratching floor  38 . As will be appreciated by one of skill in the art, the configuration of the nesting areas  22 , belts  36 , and scratching floor  38  can be unstacked to have just one level of nesting areas  22 , belts  36 , and a scratching floor  38  or can be repeated any number of times to create the desired number of levels in a stacked configuration within the aviary  10 . As will also be appreciated by one of skill in the art, each level may contain multiple nesting areas  22  set adjacent each other to permit or prohibit, as desired, bird movement from one nesting area to another. 
     The present invention also provides a method of constructing an aviary  10  for deposit removal. The method includes positioning a belt  36  beneath a nesting area  22  to remove a deposit therefrom. In one embodiment, the belt  36  is configured to capture eggs laid outside of the nesting area  22 . The method also includes extending a scratching floor  38  from the belt  36 . In one embodiment, the scratching floor  38  is planar with the belt  36  from which the scratching floor  38  extends. In another embodiment, the scratching floor  38  is sloped toward the belt  36  to facilitate the movement of deposits, with or without the assistance of gravity, from the scratching floor  38  onto the belt  36 . In one embodiment, the scratching floor  38  forms a scratching area for birds in the aviary  10 . In one embodiment, the scratching area is configured for the birds to scratch manure on the scratching floor  38  onto the belt  36 . In one embodiment, a belt  36  is also positioned along a top of the nesting area  22 . In one embodiment, a belt  36  is also positioned along a floor  14  of the aviary  10 . 
     In one embodiment, the method includes positioning at least two nesting areas  22  in a stacked configuration. The method also includes extending a belt  36  below each nesting area  22 . The method also includes extending a scratching floor  38  from a belt  36  to a corresponding belt  36  of an adjacent nesting area  22 . 
     In one embodiment, the method includes positioning at least two nesting areas  22  in a stacked configuration. The method also includes extending a belt  36  below each nesting area  22 . The method also includes extending a scratching floor  38  from each belt  36 , but not making the scratching floor  38  extending from a belt  36  of a first nesting area  22  continuous with a scratching floor  38  extending from a corresponding belt  36  of an adjacent nesting area  22 . 
       FIGS. 6-8  illustrate an aviary  110  configured with a manure removal system  112 . The aviary  110  includes a concrete floor  114  enclosed by exterior walls  116 . The exterior walls  116  enclose at least one cage tower  118  where hens are caged to lay eggs. Although the illustrated embodiment shows only two cage towers  118 , it should be noted that the aviary  110  may be constructed with any number of cage towers  118 , including a single cage tower  118 . An open space  120  extends between the two cage towers  118 . In an embodiment having more than two cage towers  118 , an open space  120  extends between each adjacent cage tower  118 . In an embodiment having a single cage tower  118 , an open space  120  is present on at least one side of the cage tower  118 . In an embodiment, open space  120  is likewise positioned between cage tower  118  and the respective exterior wall  116 . 
     Each cage tower  118  includes at least one nesting area  122 . The nesting area  122 , as illustrated, may include various nesting platforms  124  where the hen may sit to lay eggs. The nesting platforms  124  allow the hens to move freely up and down the cage tower  118  to a desirable nesting area  122 . As the hens lay their eggs, the eggs are collected in egg conveyors  128  that extend along the sides of the nesting platforms  124 . The egg conveyors  128  carry the eggs from the nesting area  122  to an egg collection area (not shown). 
     A mesh floor  130 , as shown in  FIG. 9 , is positioned beneath each nesting area  122 . In particular, the hens may leave the nesting area  122  and gather on the mesh floor  130 . Like the open space  120 , the mesh floor  130  provides an area for the hens to peck and scratch. The mesh floor  130  is formed from metal, plastic, or the like. The mesh floor  130  includes openings  134  therein that are sized to receive an egg therethrough, but are also spaced so as to support a hen. The openings  134  allow deposits such as, by way of example and not of limitation, manure, feed, litter, feathers, and eggs to pass therethrough. 
     A belt  136  extends below the mesh floor  130  to remove deposits that fall through openings  134  in the mesh floor  130 . In one embodiment, the belt  136  extends substantially the length of the cage tower  118  and carries manure from the cage tower  118  to a collection area (not shown) positioned outside of the cage tower  118 . Moreover, if a hen lays an egg outside of the nesting area  122  on the mesh floor  130 , the egg is likewise collected by the belt  136  and carried to an egg collection area (not shown). 
     In the illustrated embodiment, a scratching floor  138  extends between the mesh floors  130  of the cage towers  118 . In an embodiment having more than two cage towers  118 , a scratching floor  138  may extend between any adjacent cage towers  118 . In an embodiment having a single cage tower  118 , a scratching floor  138  may extend from the cage tower  118 . Additionally, a scratching floor  138  may extend between a cage tower  118  and an adjacent exterior wall  116 . In one embodiment, the scratching floor  138  is planar with the mesh floors  130  between which the scratching floor  138  extends. Alternatively, the scratching floor  138  may be sloped toward the mesh floor  130 , as illustrated in  FIG. 10 . The scratching floor  138  extends into the open space  120  of the aviary  110 . 
     The scratching floor  138  provides yet another pecking area for the hens to utilize while they are not nesting. In particular, the scratching floor  138  provides a scratching area for the hens to scratch and peck within the aviary  110 . When the birds scratch, they may scratch deposits on the scratching floor  138  through the mesh floor  130  and onto the belt  136 . Accordingly, since it is common for birds to defecate in their scratching area, the scratching floor  138  becomes self-cleaning as the hens scratch. The scratching floor  138  is configured so that the deposits are scratched back to the mesh floor  130 . Such configuration greatly reduces the amount of ammonia captured within the aviary  110  while also reducing the requirement for frequent cleaning of the aviary  110 . Any eggs laid on the scratching floor  138  may be directed back toward the mesh floor  30  by the scratching of the hens. These eggs are then collected on the belt  136  and removed from the belt  136 . In one embodiment, the eggs are removed through the use of any conventional egg finger belt  39 , shown in  FIGS. 5 and 7 , positioned at the end of the belt  136 . 
     It should be noted that the cage towers  118  illustrated each include at least two nesting areas  122  positioned in a stacked configuration. Each nesting area  122  has its own mesh floor  130  and belt  136  extending therebelow. Each mesh floor  130  is joined to a corresponding mesh floor  130  of the adjacent cage tower  118  by a scratching floor  138 . As will be appreciated by one of skill in the art, the configuration of the nesting areas  122 , mesh floors  130 , belts  136 , and scratching floors  138  can be repeated any number of times in a stacked configuration within the aviary  110 . As well, a single belt  136  may underlie multiple nesting areas  122  in a single level in a cage tower  118 . 
     The present invention also provides a method of constructing an aviary  110  to facilitate deposit removal. The method includes positioning a mesh floor  130  beneath a nesting area  122 . The method also includes positioning a belt  136  below the mesh floor  130  to remove deposits that fall through openings  134  in the mesh floor  130 . In one embodiment, the belt  136  is configured to capture eggs laid outside of the nesting area  122 . The method also includes extending a scratching floor  138  from the mesh floor  130  to a mesh floor  130  of an adjacent nesting area  122 . In one embodiment, the scratching floor  138  is planar with the mesh floors  130  between which the scratching floor  138  extends. Alternatively, the scratching floor  138  can be sloped toward the mesh floor  130 . In one embodiment, the scratching floor  138  forms a scratching area for birds in the aviary  110 . In one embodiment, the scratching area is configured for the birds to scratch deposits on the scratching floor  138  from the scratching floor  138  to the mesh floor  130  and through the mesh floor  130  to the belt  136 . 
       FIG. 13  illustrates an aviary  1010  having a floor  1014  and which is enclosed by exterior walls  1016  and a roof  1040 . The exterior walls  1016  define an interior surface  1030 . The exterior walls  1016  enclose at least one cage tower  1018  where hens may be caged. Although the illustrated embodiment includes three cage towers  1018 , it should be noted that the aviary  1010  may be constructed with any number of cage towers  1018 , including a single cage tower  1018 . In an embodiment with multiple cage towers  1018 , an aisle  1020  extends between each cage tower  1018  to provide an inspection area and space in which the birds housed in the aviary  1010  may move. In an embodiment having a single cage tower  1018 , an aisle  1020  is present on at least one side of the cage tower  1018 . In an embodiment, an aisle  1020  is positioned between a cage tower  1018  and the respective exterior wall  1016 . At least one scratching floor  1011  extends between each at least one cage tower  1018 . In an embodiment, at least one scratching floor  1011  is positioned between a cage tower  1018  and the respective exterior wall  1016 . 
     Each at least one cage tower  1018  includes at least one aviary cage  1021 . Each at least one aviary cage  1021  includes a first outside surface  1022  enclosing an inside area  1013 . Each at least one cage tower  1018  includes an outside surface  1031  enclosing an inside area  1032 . At least one bump rail  1015  extends from the outside surface  1031  and into the aisle  1020  to allow equipment to be maneuvered through the aisle  1020  without damaging the at least one cage tower  1018  or the at least one aviary cage  1021 . The bump rail  1015  may be used by the birds as a perch. 
     In an embodiment, the aviary  1010  includes at least two cage towers  1018 A and  1018 B. In an embodiment, a first cage tower  1018 A includes a first aviary cage  1021 A, and a second cage tower  1018 B includes a second aviary cage  1021 B, which second aviary cage  1021 B is similar to the first aviary cage  1021 A. In the illustrated embodiment, a third cage tower  1018 C includes a third aviary cage  1021 C, which third aviary cage  1021 C is similar to the first aviary cage  1021 A and the second aviary cage  1021 B. In an embodiment, multiple first aviary cages  1021 A are stacked on top of one another. In an embodiment, each aviary cage  1021  has a first end  1005  and a second end  1007 . In an embodiment, a level in at least one cage tower  1018  is formed by placing at least two aviary cages  1021  in a row, with the first end  1005  of a first aviary cage  1021  adjacent the second end  1007  of a second aviary cage  1021 , as shown in  FIG. 14 . In an embodiment, each first aviary cage  1021 A has a first outside surface  1022 A enclosing an inside area  1013 A. In an embodiment, multiple second aviary cages  1021 B are stacked on top of one another. In an embodiment, each second aviary cage  1021 B includes an outside surface  1022 B enclosing an inside area  1013 B. In an embodiment, multiple third aviary cages  1021 C are stacked on top of one another. In an embodiment, each third aviary cage  1021 C includes an outside surface  1022 C enclosing an inside area  1013 C. The second aviary cage  1021 B is positioned adjacent the first aviary cage  1021 A and an aisle  1020  is formed therebetween. The second aviary cage  1021 B is also positioned adjacent the third aviary cage  1021 C and an aisle  1020  is formed therebetween. 
     In an embodiment, a scratching floor  1011  extends between at least one aviary cage  1021  and the interior surface  1030  of an adjacent exterior wall  1016 . In an embodiment, a scratching floor  1011  extends between the first aviary cage  1021 A and the second aviary cage  1021 B. In an embodiment, a scratching floor  1011  extends between the second aviary cage  1021 B and the third aviary cage  1021 C. In an embodiment, a scratching floor  1011  extends from the outside surface  1031  of the cage tower  1018 . 
     In an embodiment, the scratching floor  1011  is configured so that a worker can walk across the scratching floor  1011  between the cage towers  1018 A and  1018 B. In an embodiment, a scratching floor  1011  is configured so that a worker can walk between cage tower  1018 A and the respective exterior wall  1016 . In an embodiment, the scratching floor  1011  is configured so that a worker can walk across the scratching floor  1011  between the cage towers  1018 C and  1018 B. In an embodiment, a scratching floor  1011  is configured so that a worker can walk between cage tower  1018 C and the respective exterior wall  1016 . The scratching floor  1011  serves as a scratching area where hens can move freely, peck the floor with their beaks, and scratch the scratching floor  1011  with their feet. In one embodiment, the scratching floor  1011  is sloped (not shown) toward the respective aviary cage  1021  to allow deposits to move back toward the aviary cage  1021 . In an embodiment including a belt positioned under each aviary cage  1021 , the scratching floor  1011  is sloped toward the respective belt to allow deposits to move back toward the belt. 
     The first outside surface  1022  of the at least one aviary cage  1021  includes a first perch  1029  extending into the aisle  1020 . In an embodiment, each perch  1029  may extend a portion of the length of the at least one cage tower  1018 . In an embodiment, each perch  1029  may extend substantially the entire length of the at least one cage tower  1018 . In an embodiment, the interior surface  1030  of the exterior wall  1016  includes a second perch  1029 D extending into the aisle  1020 . In an embodiment, each perch  1029 D may extend a portion of the length of the interior surface  1030  of the exterior wall  1016  of the aviary  1010 . In an embodiment, each perch  1029 D may extend substantially the entire length of the interior surface  1030  of the exterior wall  1016 . 
     In some embodiments, the perch  1029 ,  1029 D is solid. In one embodiment, the perch  1029 ,  1029 D may be square. In one embodiment, the perch  1029 ,  1029 D may be round. In one embodiment, a square perch  1029 ,  1029 D may have a width of ¾ inches to 2 inches. In one embodiment, a round perch  1029 ,  1029 D may have a diameter of ¾ inches to 2 inches. The width or diameter of the perch  1029 ,  1029 D is configured to allow a hen to stand on the perch  1029 ,  1029 D. 
     Referring to an embodiment, a first perch  1029 A extends from the first outside surface  1022 A and is positioned above a first egg conveyor  1028 A that extends from the first outside surface  1022 A and that extends substantially the length of the first cage tower  1018 A. When hens lay their eggs, the eggs may be collected in the first egg conveyor  1028 A. The first egg conveyor  1028 A carries the eggs from the aviary cage  1021 A to a collection area. The first perch  1029 A extends into the aisle  1020  at a first vertical distance  1023  from the scratching floor  1011 . A second perch  1029 B extends from the second outside surface  1022 B and is positioned above a second egg conveyor  1028 B that extends from the second outside surface  1022 B and that extends substantially the length of the second cage tower  1018 B. The second egg conveyor  1028 B carries the eggs from the aviary cage  1021 B to a collection area. The second perch  1029 B extends into the aisle  1020  at a second vertical distance  1025  from the scratching floor  1011 . The first vertical distance  1023  is not equal to the second vertical distance  1025 . 
     In an embodiment, each of the perches  1029 A,  1029 B may extend a portion of the length of the respective cage tower  1018 A,  1018 B. In an embodiment, each of the perches  1029 A,  1029 B may extend the entire length of the respective cage tower  1018 A,  1018 B. In some embodiments, the perches  1029 A,  1029 B are solid. In one embodiment, the perches  1029 A,  1029 B may be square. In one embodiment, the perches  1029 A,  1029 B may be round. In one embodiment, the perches  1029 A,  1029 B may be square or round. The width or diameter of the perches  1029 A,  1029 B is configured to allow a hen to stand on the perches  1029 A,  1029 B. 
     In an embodiment, the first vertical distance  1023  and the second vertical distance  1025  define a third vertical distance  1027 . The third vertical distance  1027  is configured to permit a bird to hop from the first perch  1029 A to the second perch  1029 B or vice versa. 
     It will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art of aviary design that the offset cage and perch design may be replicated for as many cage tower combinations as are desired in an aviary  1010 . In each case of an adjacent set of cage towers  1018 , the perches  1029  of each cage tower  1018  should be offset from the perches  1029  of the adjacent cage tower  1018  by the third vertical distance  1027  to enable a bird to hop from perch  1029  to perch  1029  through aisle  1020  in a ladder-like manner. 
     In an embodiment, the first aviary cage  1021 A may include multiple first egg conveyors  1028 A, and the second aviary cage  1021 B may include multiple second egg conveyors  1028 B, wherein the first egg conveyors  1028 A and the second egg conveyors  1028 B are staggered vertically relative to each other along the first and second outside surfaces  1031 A,  1031 B of the cage towers  1018 A,  1018 B. In an embodiment, the first aviary cage  1021 A may include multiple first perches  1029 A, and the second aviary cage  1021 B may include multiple second perches  1029 B, wherein the first perches  1029 A and the second perches  1029 B are staggered vertically relative to each other along the first and second outside surfaces  1022 A,  1022 B of the aviary cages  1021 A,  1021 B. 
     In the illustrated embodiments, the scratching floors  1011  form similarly configured levels  1017  in the aviary  1010 , wherein each level  1017  may be accessed by a worker. A hen may walk, peck, scratch, socialize, sleep, and lay eggs, as the bird desires, in the inside area  1013  and the inside area  1032 . These same hen activities can be carried out on the at least one scratching floor  1011 . The at least one aviary cage  1021  may house a specific group of birds or it may be open to birds from other aviary cages  1021 . In an embodiment, the cage tower  1018  may be configured to allow the birds to move freely up and down the cage tower  1018 . In an embodiment, the cage tower  1018  may be configured to keep birds in the aviary  1010  segregated by vertical level  1017 . In an embodiment, the cage tower  1018  may be configured to keep birds segregated horizontally within a level  1017  of the cage tower  1018 . When the hens lay their eggs, the eggs may be collected in egg conveyors  1028  that extend substantially the length of the cage tower  1018 . The egg conveyor  1028  carries the eggs from the aviary cage  1021  to a collection area. 
     Each perch  1029  and each bump rail  1015  provide yet other areas for the hens to utilize when they are not confined to the at least one aviary cage  1021 . In particular, hens may sit, hop, walk, scratch, socialize, sleep, and lay eggs from or on any perch  1029  and/or any bump rail  1015 . 
     When a first perch  1029 A and a second perch  1029 B are included in an embodiment, the first vertical distance  1023  and the second vertical distance  1025  define a third vertical distance  1027 , which third vertical distance is configured to facilitate the behavior of birds to hop from one surface to another and thereby create a ladder effect between the outside surfaces  1022 A,  1022 B of the aviary cages  1021 A,  1021 B and, concomitantly, the outside surfaces  1031 A,  1031 B of the cage towers  1018 A,  1018 B. 
     In one embodiment, an angle formed between the first perch  1029 A and the second perch  1029 B is no greater than 45°, which facilitates the behavior of birds to hop or fly from one surface to another. In one embodiment, a plurality of first and second perches  1029 A,  1029 B are spaced apart about the outside surfaces  1031 A,  1031 B of the respective cage towers  1018 A,  1018 B. In an embodiment, each perch  1029 A,  1029 B extends into the aisle  1020  to provide usable vertical space that creates additional habitable cubic inches for the birds, thereby enabling the aviary  1010  to be considered cage free. 
     In an embodiment, the first aviary cage  1021 A may include multiple first perches  1029 A, corresponding to the number of first egg conveyors  1028 A, and the second aviary cage  1021 B may include multiple second perches  1029 B, corresponding to the number of second egg conveyors  1028 B, wherein the first perches  1029 A and the second perches  1029 B are staggered in relation to each other along the first and second outside surfaces  1031 A,  1031 B of the cage towers  1018 A,  1018 B. In one embodiment, the first perches  1029 A and the second perches  1029 B are staggered vertically on the first and second outside surfaces  1031 A,  1031 B of the cage towers  1018 A,  1018 B. In one embodiment, the first perches  1029 A and the second perches  1029 B are staggered horizontally along the first and second outside surfaces  1031 A,  1031 B of the cage towers  1018 A,  1018 B. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, a cage tower  1018 C is positioned adjacent the exterior wall  1016  and includes an aviary cage  1021 C adjacent the scratching floor  1011 . An egg conveyor  1028 C extends from an outside surface  1022 C of the aviary cage  1021 C and into the aisle  1020 . A perch  1029 C extends from the outside surface  1022 C of the aviary cage  1021 C and is positioned above the egg conveyor  1028 C. A perch  1029 D extends from the interior surface  1030  of the exterior wall  1016  and into the aisle  1020 . 
     In an embodiment, a perch  1029 C is elevated at a first vertical distance  1033  from the scratching floor  1011 , and a perch  1029 D is positioned at a second vertical distance  1035  from the scratching floor  1011 . In an embodiment, the first vertical distance  1033  and the second vertical distance  1035  define a third vertical distance  1037 , which third vertical distance  1037  is configured to facilitate the behavior of birds to hop from one surface to another and thereby create a ladder effect between the aviary cage  1021 C and the exterior wall  1016 . In one embodiment, an angle formed between the perch  1029 C and the perch  1029 D is no greater than 45°, which configuration facilitates the behavior of birds to hop from one surface to another. In one embodiment, a plurality of perches  1029 C is spaced apart about the outside surface  1031 C of the cage tower  1018 C. In one embodiment, a plurality of perches  1029 D is spaced apart about the interior surface  1030  of the exterior wall  1016 . Each perch  1029 C,  1029 D extends into the aisle  1020  to provide usable vertical space that creates additional habitable cubic inches for the birds, thereby enabling the aviary  1010  to be considered cage free. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 14 , each of the perches  1029  may be offset horizontally with respect to one another. The perches  1029  are offset in a spaced apart arrangement to accommodate the behavior of birds to hop from one surface to another and thereby create a ladder effect on the outside surface  1022  of the aviary cage  1021  and, concomitantly, the outside surface  1031  of the cage tower  1018 . In an embodiment (not shown), the perches  1029  are sloped downward from the cage tower  1018 . In an embodiment, the perches  1029  extend from the outside surface  1022  parallel to the scratching floor  1011 . In an embodiment (not shown), the perches  1029  may extend upward from the outside surface  1022  relative to the cage tower  1018 . 
       FIG. 15  illustrates an aviary  1110  having a floor  1114 , exterior walls  1116 , and a roof  1140 . The exterior walls  1116  define an interior surface  1130 . The exterior walls  1116  enclose at least one cage tower  1118  where hens may be caged. In an embodiment with multiple cage towers  1118 , an aisle  1120  extends between each cage tower  1118  to provide an inspection area and space in which the birds housed in the aviary  1110  may move. In an embodiment having a single cage tower  1118 , an aisle  1120  is present on at least one side of the cage tower  1118 . In an embodiment, an aisle  1120  is positioned between an end tower  1118  and the respective exterior wall  1116 . At least one scratching floor  1111  extends between each at least one cage tower  1118 . In an embodiment, at least one scratching floor  1111  is positioned between an end cage tower  1118  and the respective exterior wall  1116 . 
     Each at least one cage tower  1118  includes at least one aviary cage  1121 . Each at least one aviary cage  1121  includes a first outside surface  1122  enclosing an inside area  1113 . Each at least one cage tower  1118  includes an outside surface  1131  enclosing an inside area  1132 . At least one bump rail  1115  extends from the outside surface  1131  and into the aisle  1120  to allow equipment to be maneuvered through the aisle  1120  without damaging the at least one cage tower  1118  or the at least one aviary cage  1121 . The bump rail  1115  may be used by the birds as a perch. 
       FIGS. 15 and 16  illustrate at least one cage tower  1118 . In an embodiment, the aviary  1110  includes at least two cage towers  1118 A,  1118 B. In an embodiment, a first cage tower  1118 A includes a first aviary cage  1121 A, and a second cage tower  1118 B includes a second aviary cage  1121 B, which second aviary cage  1121 B is similar to the first aviary cage  1121 A. In the illustrated embodiment, a third cage tower  1118 C includes a third aviary cage  1121 C, which third aviary cage  1121 C is similar to the first aviary cage  1121 A and the second aviary cage  1121 B. In an embodiment, multiple first aviary cages  1121 A are stacked on top of one another. In an embodiment, aviary cage  1121  has a first end  1105  and a second end  1107 . In an embodiment, a level in at least one cage tower  1118  is formed by placing at least two aviary cages  1121  in a row, with the first end  1105  of a first aviary cage  1121  adjacent the second end  1107  of a second aviary cage  1121 . In an embodiment, a divider  1103  may be positioned between the adjacent aviary cages  1121 . For example, the divider  1103  may be positioned at the juncture of the first end  1105  of the first aviary cage  1121  and the second end  1107  of the second aviary cage  1121 . In that embodiment, the divider  1103  prevents birds from roaming between the first aviary cage  1121  and the second aviary cage  1121 . In another embodiment (not shown), a gap may be positioned between the first end  1105  of the first aviary cage  1121  and the second end  1107  of the second aviary cage  1121 . In that embodiment, the gap may be sized to prevent birds from traversing the gap and roaming between the first aviary cage  1121  and the second aviary cage  1121 . 
     In an embodiment, each first aviary cage  1121 A has a first outside surface  1122 A enclosing an inside area  1113 A. In an embodiment, multiple second aviary cages  1121 B are stacked on top of one another. In an embodiment, each second aviary cage  1121 B includes a second outside surface  1122 B enclosing an inside area  1113 B. In an embodiment, multiple third aviary cages  1121 C are stacked on top of one another. In an embodiment, each third aviary cage  1121 C includes a third outside surface  1122 C enclosing an inside area  1113 C. The second aviary cage  1121 B is positioned adjacent the first aviary cage  1121 A and an aisle  1120  is formed therebetween. The second aviary cage  1121 B is also positioned adjacent the third aviary cage  1121 C and an aisle  1120  is formed therebetween. 
     In an embodiment, a scratching floor  1111  extends between at least one aviary cage  1121  and the interior surface  1130  of an adjacent exterior wall  1116 . In an embodiment, a scratching floor  1111  extends between the first aviary cage  1121 A and the second aviary cage  1121 B. In an embodiment, a scratching floor  1111  extends between the second aviary cage  1121 B and the third aviary cage  1121 C. In an embodiment, a scratching floor  1111  extends from the outside surface  1131  of the cage tower  1118 . 
     In an embodiment, the scratching floor  1111  is configured so that a worker can walk across the scratching floor  1111  between the cage towers  1118 A and  1118 B. In an embodiment, a scratching floor  1111  is configured so that a worker can walk between cage tower  1118 A and the respective exterior wall  1116 . In an embodiment, the scratching floor  1111  is configured so that a worker can walk across the scratching floor  1111  between the cage towers  1118 C and  1118 B. In an embodiment, a scratching floor  1111  is configured so that a worker can walk between cage tower  1118 C and the respective exterior wall  1116 . The scratching floor  1111  serves as a scratching area where hens can move freely, peck the floor with their beaks, and scratch the scratching floor  1111  with their feet. In one embodiment, the scratching floor  1111  is sloped (not shown) toward the respective aviary cage  1121  to allow deposits to move back toward the aviary cage  1121 . In an embodiment including a belt  1136  positioned under each aviary cage  1121 , the scratching floor  1111  is sloped toward the respective belt  1136  to allow deposits to move back toward the belt  1136 . 
     The first outside surface  1122  of the at least one aviary cage  1121  includes a first perch  1129  extending into the aisle  1120 . In an embodiment, each perch  1129  may extend a portion of the length of the at least one cage tower  1118 . In an embodiment, each perch  1129  may extend substantially the length of the at least one cage tower  1118 . In an embodiment, the interior surface  1130  of the exterior wall  1116  includes a second perch  1129 D extending into the aisle  1120 . In an embodiment, each perch  1129 D may extend a portion of the length of the interior surface  1130  of the exterior wall  1116  of the aviary  1110 . In an embodiment, each perch  1129 D may extend substantially the length of the interior surface  1130  of the exterior wall  1116 . 
     Referring to an embodiment, a first perch  1129 A extends from the first outside surface  1122 A of the first aviary cage  1121 A and is positioned above a first egg conveyor  1128 A that extends from the first outside surface  1122 A and that extends substantially the length of the first cage tower  1118 A. When the hens lay their eggs, the eggs may be collected in the first egg conveyor  1128 A. The first egg conveyor  1128 A carries the eggs from the aviary cage  1121 A to a collection area. The first perch  1129 A extends into the aisle  1120  at a first vertical distance  1123  from the scratching floor  1111 . A second perch  1129 B extends from the second outside surface  1122 B of the second aviary cage  1121 B and is positioned above a second egg conveyor  1128 B that extends from the second outside surface  1122 B and that extends substantially the length of the second cage tower  1118 B. The second egg conveyor  1128 B carries the eggs from the aviary cage  1121 B to a collection area. The second perch  1129 B extends into the aisle  1120  at a second vertical distance  1125  from the scratching floor  1111 . The first vertical distance  1123  is not equal to the second vertical distance  1125 . 
     In an embodiment, the first vertical distance  1123  and the second vertical distance  1125  define a third vertical distance  1127 . The third vertical distance  1127  is configured to permit a bird to hop from the first perch  1129 A to the second perch  1129 B or vice versa. 
     It will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art of aviary design that the offset cage and perch design may be replicated for as many cage tower combinations as are desired in an aviary  1110 . In each case of an adjacent set of cage towers  1118 , the perches  1129  of each cage tower  1118  should be offset from the perches  1129  of the adjacent cage tower  1118  by the third vertical distance  1127  to enable a bird to hop from perch  1129  to perch  1129  through aisle  1120  in a ladder-like manner. 
     In an embodiment, the first cage tower  1118 A may include multiple first egg conveyors  1128 A, and the second cage tower  1118 B may include multiple second egg conveyors  1128 B, wherein the first egg conveyors  1128 A and the second egg conveyors  1128 B are staggered vertically relative to each other along the first and second outside surfaces  1131 A,  1131 B of the cage towers  1118 A,  1118 B. In an embodiment, the first cage tower  1118 A may include multiple first perches  1129 A, and the second cage tower  1118 B may include multiple second perches  1129 B, wherein the first perches  1129 A and the second perches  1129 B are staggered vertically relative to each other along the first and second outside surfaces  1131 A,  1131 B of the cage towers  1118 A,  1118 B. 
     When a first perch  1129 A and a second perch  1129 B are included in an embodiment, the first vertical distance  1123  and the second vertical distance  1125  define a third vertical distance  1127 , which third vertical distance is configured to facilitate the behavior of birds to hop from one surface to another and thereby create a ladder effect between the outside surfaces  1122 A,  1122 B of the aviary cages  1121 A,  1121 B and, concomitantly, the outside surfaces  1131 A,  1131 B of the cage towers  1118 A,  1118 B. 
     At least one belt  1136  extends through each cage tower  1118  to remove a deposit from at least part of the cage tower  1118 . In one embodiment, the belt  1136  extends through each cage tower  1118  substantially the length of the cage tower  1118 . In one embodiment, the belt  1136  extends approximately 400 feet along the length of each cage tower  1118 . In one embodiment, the belt  1136  carries deposits from the cage tower  1118  to a collection area (not shown) positioned outside of the cage tower  1118 . 
     A scratching floor  1111  extends between the first aviary cage  1121 A and the second aviary cage  1121 B. The scratching floor  1111  is oriented with respect to and positioned adjacent to a respective belt  1136 . In one embodiment, the scratching floor  1111  is planar with the respective adjacent belt  1136 . In one embodiment, the scratching floor  1111  is sloped to allow deposits to move back toward the respective belt  1136 . When the birds scratch the scratching floor  1111 , they scratch much of the deposits made on the scratching floor  1111  onto the belt  1136 . Accordingly, since it is common for birds to defecate in a scratching area, the scratching floor  1111  becomes relatively self-cleaning as the hens scratch. The scratching floor  1111  is configured so that the deposits are scratched back to the respective belt  1136 . Such configuration reduces the required frequency for cleaning of the aviary  1110 . Any eggs laid on the scratching floor  1111  may be directed back toward the belt  1136  by the scratching of the hens. These eggs are then collected from the belt  1136  and removed from the belt  1136 . 
     In one embodiment, the belt  1136  forms a floor of the aviary cage  1121 . Accordingly, the birds are allowed to move freely and walk on the belt  1136 . 
     In one embodiment, eggs are removed from the belt  1136  through the use of an egg remover  1139  positioned at the end of the belt  1136 .  FIG. 17A  shows one embodiment of an egg remover  1139 A. In the illustrated embodiment, the egg remover  1139 A includes two brushes  1141  that meet at a point  1143 . From the point  1143 , each brush  1141  extends toward a side  1147  of the belt  1136 . In particular, each brush  1141  extends at an angle toward a side  1147  of the belt  1136  in the direction of movement of the belt  1136 , wherein the brushes  1141  extend over the full width of the belt  1136 . In an embodiment, the brushes  1141  are round. In that embodiment, the brushes  1141  rotate in a direction that moves material to at least one side  1147  of the belt  1136 . In one embodiment, the brush  1141  may be an auger-shaped brush. In an embodiment, the brushes  1141  are flat and divert the eggs toward a side  1147  of the belt  1136 . Additionally, in one embodiment, a finger belt (not shown) is utilized to move the eggs to a side  1147  of the belt  1136 . In yet another embodiment, any egg conveying apparatus, including but not limited to a roller having a flange, can be utilized to move the eggs to a side  1147  or both sides  1147  of the belt  1136 . 
       FIG. 17B  shows another embodiment of an egg remover  1139 B. The egg remover  1139 B includes a single brush  1149  that extends the width of the belt  1136  at an angle from one side  1147  of the belt  1136  to the other side  1147  of the belt  1136 . In an embodiment, the brush  1149  is round. In that embodiment, the brush  1149  rotates in a direction that moves material to the downstream end of the brush  1149  with respect to the direction of movement of the belt  1136 . In an embodiment, the brush  1149  is flat and moves material to the downstream end of the brush  1149  with respect to the direction of movement of the belt  1136 . 
     Each brush  1141 ,  1149  is formed from a material having a rigidity that enables the brush  1141 ,  1149  to move eggs toward at least one side  1147  of the belt  1136 . However, the rigidity is such that the brush  1141 ,  1149  is incapable of moving deceased birds. Rather, deceased birds pass through and/or under the brush  1141 ,  1149  and are deposited at an end of the belt  1136 . Additionally, the brush  1141 ,  1149  is positioned above the belt  1136  to enable deposits other than eggs to pass under the brush  1141 ,  1149 . 
     In one embodiment, illustrated in  FIGS. 18 and 19 , at least one gate  1150  is positioned along at least one belt  1136  to permit deposits on the belt  1136  to pass thereunder and/or therethrough and to prevent birds from traveling beyond the gate  1150 . In one embodiment, the gate  1150  includes openings  1152  operative to enable deposits to pass therethrough. In an embodiment, the gate  1150  includes overlapping plastic or cloth strips operative to enable deposits to pass therethrough and/or thereunder and to prevent birds from traveling beyond the gate  1150 . Additionally, in one embodiment, the gate  1150  includes a hinge  1154  operative to rotate the gate  1150  and thereby enable larger deposits, such as eggs and dead animals, to move past the gate  1150 . In an embodiment, an electric fence may be positioned on the gate  1150  to prevent live birds from entering the gate  1150 . In an embodiment, an electric fence may be spaced apart from the gate  1150  to prevent birds from reaching and entering the gate  1150 . In embodiments including at least one gate  1150 , birds are prevented from leaving a part of the aviary  1110  while deposits are permitted to travel away from that part of the aviary  1110 . 
     In one embodiment shown in  FIG. 20 , a plurality of perches  1250  is spaced apart about an outside of a cage tower  1218 . First perches  1252  and second perches  1254  may be offset horizontally with respect to one another. In an embodiment, the first perches  1252  and the second perches  1254  may be offset vertically with respect to one another. The perches  1250 , if they are offset from each other, may be offset by a hopping distance for a bird. The perches  1250  may be positioned above and below the egg conveyors  1228 . Each perch  1250  extends into an aisle formed between adjacent cage towers  1218  or into an aisle formed between a cage tower  1218  and an exterior wall  1216 . The usable vertical space created by the perches  1250  provides additional habitable cubic inches for the birds. 
     In one embodiment, a method of constructing an aviary  1010  is provided. The method includes positioning a first cage tower  1018 A adjacent to a second cage tower  1018 B, wherein the first cage tower  1018 A includes a first aviary cage  1021 A, and the second cage tower  1018 B includes a second aviary cage  1021 B. In an embodiment, the method may include stacking multiple first aviary cages  1021 A on top of one another. In an embodiment, each aviary cage  1021  has a first end  1005  and a second end  1007 . In an embodiment, the method may include forming a level in at least one cage tower  1018  by placing at least two aviary cages  1021  in a row, with the first end  1005  of a first aviary cage  1021  adjacent the second end  1007  of a second aviary cage  1021 . In an embodiment, each first aviary cage  1021 A includes a first outside surface  1022 A enclosing an inside area  1013 A. In an embodiment, the method may include stacking multiple second aviary cages  1121 B on top of one another. In an embodiment, each second aviary cage  1021 B includes a second outside surface  1022 B enclosing an inside area  1013 B. The method may include extending an aisle  1020  between the first aviary cage  1021 A and the second aviary cage  1021 B. 
     In an embodiment, the method may include extending a scratching floor  1011  from a first aviary cage  1021 A through the aisle  1020  to a second aviary cage  1021 B. The method may include extending a first perch  1029 A from the first outside surface  1022 A of the first aviary cage  1021 A and into the aisle  1020  at a first vertical distance  1023  from a scratching floor  1011 . The method may include extending a second perch  1029 B from the second outside surface  1022 B of the second aviary cage  1021 B and into the aisle  1020  at a second vertical distance  1025  from the scratching floor  1011 . In an embodiment, the first vertical distance  1023  and the second vertical distance  1025  define a third vertical distance  1027  in a spaced apart arrangement to accommodate the behavior of birds to hop from one surface to another and thereby create a ladder effect between the outside surfaces  1022 A,  1022 B of the aviary cages  1021 A and  1021 B. 
     Each of the first cage tower  1018 A and the second cage tower  1018 B may include at least one belt  1136  positioned within the inside area  1013 A,  1013 B. The method further includes positioning the first perch  1029 A and the second perch  1029 B adjacent the respective belt  1136 . In one embodiment, the respective belt  1136  forms at least one floor of each cage tower  1018 A,  1018 B. The at least one belt  1136  is configured to remove a deposit from at least part of the respective cage tower  1018 A,  1018 B. An egg remover  1139  may be positioned at an end of each belt  1136  to remove eggs from the belt  1136 . The egg remover  1139  may include at least one brush  1149  to direct material to at least one side  1147  of the belt  1136 . 
     In an embodiment, the method may include positioning a gate  1150  in relation to each belt  1136  to prevent animals from leaving the respective aviary cage  1021 A,  1021 B. The gate  1150  may include openings  1152  to enable debris to pass therethrough. Additionally, the gate  1150  may include a hinge  1154  to rotate the gate  1150  and thereby enable eggs and dead animals to move past the gate  1150 . 
       FIG. 21  illustrates an aviary  2010  having a floor  2014 , which aviary  2010  is enclosed by exterior walls  2016  and a roof  2040 . The exterior walls  2016  define an interior surface  2030 . The exterior walls  2016  enclose at least one cage tower  2018  where hens may be caged. Although the illustrated embodiment shows three cage towers  2018 , it should be noted that the aviary may be constructed with any number of cage towers  2018 , including a single cage tower  2018 . In an embodiment with multiple cage towers  2018 , an aisle  2020  extends between each cage tower  2018  to provide an inspection area and space in which the birds housed in the aviary  2010  may move. In an embodiment, an aisle  2020  is positioned between a cage tower  2018  and the respective exterior wall  2016 . In an embodiment, at least one scratching floor  2011  extends between each at least one cage tower  2018 . In an embodiment, at least one scratching floor  2011  is positioned between a cage tower  2018  and the respective exterior wall  2016 . 
     Each at least one cage tower  2018  includes at least one aviary cage  2021 . Each at least one aviary cage  2021  includes a first outside surface  2022  enclosing an inside area  2013 . Each at least one cage tower  2018  includes an outside surface  2031  enclosing an inside area  2032 . At least one bump rail  2015  extends from the outside surface  2031  and into the aisle  2020  to allow equipment to be maneuvered through the aisle  2020  without damaging the at least one cage tower  2018  or the at least one aviary cage  2021 . The bump rail  2015  may be used by the birds as a perch. 
     In an embodiment, a first cage tower  2018 A includes a first aviary cage  2021 A, and a second cage tower  2018 B includes a second aviary cage  2021 B, which second aviary cage  2021 B is similar to the first aviary cage  2021 A. In the illustrated embodiment, a third cage tower  2018 C includes a third aviary cage  2021 C, which third aviary cage  2021 C is similar to the first aviary cage  2021 A and the second aviary cage  2021 B. In an embodiment, multiple first aviary cages  2021 A are stacked on top of one another. In an embodiment, each first aviary cage  2021 A has a first outside surface  2022 A enclosing an inside area  2013 A. In an embodiment, multiple second aviary cages  2021 B are stacked on top of one another. In an embodiment, each second aviary cage  2021 B includes a second outside surface  2022 B enclosing an inside area  2013 B. In an embodiment, multiple third aviary cages  2021 C are stacked on top of one another. In an embodiment, each third aviary cage  2021 C includes a third outside surface  2022 C enclosing an inside area  2013 C. The second aviary cage  2021 B is positioned adjacent the first aviary cage  2021 A and an aisle  2020  is formed therebetween. The second aviary cage  2021 B is also positioned adjacent the third aviary cage  2021 C and an aisle  2020  is formed therebetween. In an embodiment, the second aviary cage  2021 B is positioned at a height  2019 B from the scratching floor  2011  that is greater than a height  2019 A of the first aviary cage  2021 A from the scratching floor  2011 . In an embodiment, the second aviary cage  2021 B is positioned at a height  2019 B from the scratching floor  2011  that is greater than a height  2019 C of the third aviary cage  2021 C from the scratching floor  2011 . In an embodiment, the height  2019 A is substantially equal to the height  2019 C. In another embodiment, the height  2019 A is not equal to the height  2019 C. 
     In an embodiment, a scratching floor  2011  extends between at least one aviary cage  2021  and the interior surface  2030  of an adjacent exterior wall  2016 . In an embodiment, a scratching floor  2011  extends between the first aviary cage  2021 A and the second aviary cage  2021 B. In an embodiment, a scratching floor  2011  extends between the second aviary cage  2021 B and the third aviary cage  2021 C. In an embodiment, a scratching floor  2011  extends from the outside surface  2031  of the cage tower  2018 . 
     In an embodiment, the scratching floor  2011  is configured so that a worker can walk across the scratching floor  2011  between the cage towers  2018 A and  2018 B. In an embodiment, a scratching floor  2011  is configured so that a worker can walk between cage tower  2018 A and the respective exterior wall  2016 . In an embodiment, the scratching floor  2011  is configured so that a worker can walk across the scratching floor  2011  between the cage towers  2018 C and  2018 B. In an embodiment, a scratching floor  2011  is configured so that a worker can walk between cage tower  2018 C and the respective exterior wall  2016 . The scratching floor  2011  serves as a scratching area where hens can move freely, peck the floor with their beaks, and scratch the scratching floor  2011  with their feet. In one embodiment, the scratching floor  2011  is sloped (not shown) toward the respective aviary cage  2021  to allow deposits to move back toward the aviary cage  2021 . In an embodiment including a belt  2036  positioned under each aviary cage  2021 , the scratching floor  2011  is sloped toward the respective belt  2036  to allow deposits to move back toward the belt  2036 . 
     The first outside surface  2022  of the at least one aviary cage  2021  includes a first perch  2029  extending into the aisle  2020 . In an embodiment, each perch  2029  may extend a portion of the length of the at least one cage tower  2018 . In an embodiment, each perch  2029  may extend substantially the length of the at least one cage tower  2018 . In an embodiment, the interior surface  2030  of the exterior wall  2016  includes a second perch  2029 D extending into the aisle  2020 . In an embodiment, each perch  2029 D may extend a portion of the length of the interior surface  2030  of the exterior wall  2016  of the aviary  2010 . In an embodiment, each perch  2029 D may extend substantially the length of the interior surface  2030  of the exterior wall  2016 . 
     Referring to an embodiment, a first perch  2029 A extends from the first outside surface  2022 A of the first aviary cage  2021 A and is positioned above a first egg conveyor  2028 A that extends from the first outside surface  2022 A and that extends substantially the length of the first cage tower  2018 A. When hens lay their eggs, the eggs may be collected in the first egg conveyor  2028 A. The first egg conveyor  2028 A carries the eggs from the aviary cage  2021 A to a collection area. The first perch  2029 A extends into the aisle  2020  at a first vertical distance  2023  from the scratching floor  2011 . A second perch  2029 B extends from the second outside surface  2022 B of the second aviary cage  2021 B and is positioned above a second egg conveyor  2028 B that extends from the second outside surface  2022 B and that extends substantially the length of the second cage tower  2018 B. The second egg conveyor  2028 B carries the eggs from the aviary cage  2021 B to a collection area. The second perch  2029 B extends into the aisle  2020  at a second vertical distance  2025  from the scratching floor  2011 . The first vertical distance  2023  is not equal to the second vertical distance  2025 . 
     In an embodiment, the first vertical distance  2023  and the second vertical distance  2025  define a third vertical distance  2027 . The third vertical distance  2027  is configured to permit a bird to hop from the first perch  2029 A to the second perch  2029 B or vice versa. 
     It will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art of aviary design that the offset cage and perch design may be replicated for as many cage tower combinations as are desired in an aviary  2010 . In each case of an adjacent set of cage towers  2018 , the perches  2029  of each cage tower  2018  should be offset from the perches  2029  of the adjacent cage tower  2018  by the third vertical distance  2027  to enable a bird to hop from perch  2029  to perch  2029  through aisle  2020  in a ladder-like manner. In an embodiment, the first cage tower  2018 A may include multiple first egg conveyors  2028 A, and the second cage tower  2018 B may include multiple second egg conveyors  2028 B, wherein the first egg conveyors  2028 A and the second egg conveyors  2028 B are staggered vertically relative to each other along the first and second outside surfaces  2031 A,  2031 B of the cage towers  2018 A,  2018 B. In an embodiment, the first cage tower  2018 A may include multiple first perches  2029 A, and the second cage tower  2018 B may include multiple second perches  2029 B, wherein the first perches  2029 A and the second perches  2029 B are staggered vertically relative to each other along the first and second outside surfaces  2031 A,  2031 B of the cage towers  2018 A,  2018 B. 
     When a first perch  2029 A and a second perch  2029 B are included in an embodiment, the first vertical distance  2023  and the second vertical distance  2025  define a third vertical distance  2027 , which third vertical distance is configured to facilitate the behavior of birds to hop from one surface to another and thereby create a ladder effect between the outside surfaces  2022 A,  2022 B of the aviary cages  2021 A,  2021 B and, concomitantly, the outside surfaces  2031 A,  2031 B of the cage towers  2018 A,  2018 B. 
     In an illustrated embodiment, a cage tower  2018 C is positioned adjacent the exterior wall  2016  and includes an aviary cage  2021 C adjacent the scratching floor  2011 . An egg conveyor  2028 C extends from an outside surface  2022 C of the aviary cage  2021 C and into the aisle  2020 . A perch  2029 C extends from the outside surface  2022 C of the aviary cage  2021 C and is positioned above the egg conveyor  2028 C. A perch  2029 D extends from the interior surface  2030  of the exterior wall  2016  and into the aisle  2020 . 
     In an embodiment, the perch  2029 C is elevated at a first vertical distance  2033  from the scratching floor  2011 , and the perch  2029 D is positioned at a second vertical distance  2035  from the scratching floor  2011 . In an embodiment, the first vertical distance  2033  and the second vertical distance  2035  define a third vertical distance  2037 , which third vertical distance  2037  is configured to facilitate the behavior of birds to hop from one surface to another and thereby create a ladder effect between the aviary cage  2021 C and the exterior wall  2016 . 
     In one embodiment, an angle formed between the perch  2029 C and the perch  2029 D is no greater than 45°, which configuration facilitates the behavior of birds to hop from one surface to another. In one embodiment, a plurality of perches  2029 C is spaced apart about the outside surface  2031 C of the cage tower  2018 C. In one embodiment, a plurality of perches  2029 D is spaced apart about the interior surface  2030  of the exterior wall  2016 . Each perch  2029 C,  2029 D extends into the aisle  2020  to provide usable vertical space that creates additional habitable cubic inches for the birds, thereby enabling the aviary  2010  to be considered cage free. 
     In an embodiment, the perches  2029 A,  2029 B,  2029 C are offset as a result of the aviary cages  2021 A,  2021 B,  2021 C being positioned at different heights from the scratching floor  2011 . Accordingly, by offsetting the heights  2019 A,  2019 B,  2019 C of the aviary cages  2021 A,  2021 B,  2021 C the perches  2029 A,  2029 B,  2029 C become offset. Each of the perches  2029  are offset in a spaced apart arrangement to accommodate the behavior of birds to hop from one surface to another and thereby create a ladder effect on the outside surface  2022  of the aviary cage  2021  and, concomitantly, the outside surface  2031  of the cage tower  2018 . In an embodiment, the perches  2029  are sloped downward from the cage tower  2018 . In an embodiment, the perches  2029  extend from the outside surface  2022  parallel to the scratching floor  2011 . In an embodiment, the perches  2029  may extend upward from the outside surface  2022  relative to the cage tower  2018 . 
       FIG. 22  illustrates an aviary  2110  having a floor  2114 , which aviary  2110  is enclosed by exterior walls  2116  and a roof  2140 . The exterior walls  2116  define an interior surface  2130 . The exterior walls  2116  enclose at least one cage tower  2118  where hens may be caged. In an embodiment having multiple cage towers  2118 , an aisle  2120  extends between each cage tower  2118  to provide an inspection area and space in which the birds housed in the aviary  2110  may move. In an embodiment, an aisle  2120  is positioned between an end cage tower  2118  and the respective exterior wall  2116 . In an embodiment having multiple cage towers  2118 , at least one scratching floor  2111  extends between each at least one cage tower  2118 . In an embodiment, at least one scratching floor  2111  is positioned between an end cage tower  2118  and the respective exterior wall  2116   
       FIGS. 22 and 23  illustrate at least one cage tower  2118 . Each at least one cage tower  2118  includes at least one aviary cage  2121 . Each at least one aviary cage  2121  includes a first outside surface  2122  enclosing an inside area  2113 . Each at least one cage tower  2118  includes an outside surface  2131  enclosing an inside area  2132 . At least one bump rail  2115  extends from the outside surface  2131  and into the aisle  2120  to allow equipment to be maneuvered through the aisle  2120  without damaging the at least one cage tower  2118  or the at least one aviary cage  2121 . The bump rail  2115  may be used by the birds as a perch. 
     In an embodiment, a first cage tower  2118 A includes a first aviary cage  2121 A, and a second cage tower  2118 B includes a second aviary cage  2121 B, which second aviary cage  2121 B is similar to the first aviary cage  2121 A. In the illustrated embodiment, a third cage tower  2118 C includes a third aviary cage  2121 C, which third aviary cage  2121 C is similar to the first aviary cage  2121 A and the second aviary cage  2121 B. In an embodiment, multiple first aviary cages  2121 A are stacked on top of one another. In an embodiment, each first aviary cage  2121 A has a first outside surface  2122 A enclosing an inside area  2113 A. In an embodiment, multiple second aviary cages  2121 B are stacked on top of one another. In an embodiment, each second aviary cage  2121 B includes a second outside surface  2122 B enclosing an inside area  2113 B. In an embodiment, multiple third aviary cages  2121 C are stacked on top of one another. In an embodiment, each third aviary cage  2121 C includes a third outside surface  2122 C enclosing an inside area  2113 C. The second aviary cage  2121 B is positioned adjacent the first aviary cage  2121 A and an aisle  2120  is found therebetween. The second aviary cage  2121 B is also positioned adjacent the third aviary cage  2121 C and an aisle  2120  is formed therebetween. In an embodiment, the second aviary cage  2121 B is positioned at a height  2119 B from the scratching floor  2111  that is greater than a height  2119 A of the first aviary cage  2121 A from the scratching floor  2111 . In an embodiment, the second aviary cage  2121 B is positioned at a height  2119 B from the scratching floor  2111  that is greater than a height  2119 C of the third aviary cage  2121 C from the scratching floor  2111 . In an embodiment, the height  2119 A is substantially equal to the height  2119 C. In another embodiment, the height  2119 A is not equal to the height  2119 C. 
     In an embodiment, a scratching floor  2111  extends between at least one aviary cage  2121  and the interior surface  2130  of an adjacent exterior wall  2116 . In an embodiment, a scratching floor  2111  extends between the first aviary cage  2121 A and the second aviary cage  2121 B. In an embodiment, a scratching floor  2111  extends between the second aviary cage  2121 B and the third aviary cage  2121 C. In an embodiment, a scratching floor  2111  extends from the outside surface  2131  of the cage tower  2118 . 
     In an embodiment, the scratching floor  2111  is configured so that a worker can walk across the scratching floor  2111  between the cage towers  2118 A and  2118 B. In an embodiment, a scratching floor  2111  is configured so that a worker can walk between cage tower  2118 A and the respective exterior wall  2116 . In an embodiment, the scratching floor  2111  is configured so that a worker can walk across the scratching floor  2111  between the cage towers  2118 C and  2118 B. In an embodiment, a scratching floor  2111  is configured so that a worker can walk between cage tower  2118 C and the respective exterior wall  2116 . The scratching floor  2111  serves as a scratching area where hens can move freely, peck the floor with their beaks, and scratch the scratching floor  2111  with their feet. In one embodiment, the scratching floor  2111  is sloped (not shown) toward the respective aviary cage  2121  to allow deposits to move back toward the aviary cage  2121 . In an embodiment including a belt  2136  positioned under each aviary cage  2121 , the scratching floor  2111  is sloped toward the respective belt  2136  to allow deposits to move back toward the belt  2136 . 
     The first outside surface  2122  of the at least one aviary cage  2121  includes a first perch  2129  extending into the aisle  2120 . In an embodiment, each perch  2129  may extend a portion of the length of the at least one cage tower  2118 . In an embodiment, each perch  2129  may extend substantially the length of the at least one cage tower  2118 . In an embodiment, the interior surface  2130  of the exterior wall  2116  includes a second perch  2129 D extending into the aisle  2120 . In an embodiment, each perch  2129 D may extend a portion of the length of the interior surface  2130  of the exterior wall  2116  of the aviary  2110 . In an embodiment, each perch  2129 D may extend substantially the length of the interior surface  2130  of the exterior wall  2116 . 
     Referring to an embodiment, a first perch  2129 A extends from the first outside surface  2122 A of the first aviary cage  2121 A and is positioned above a first egg conveyor  2128 A that extends from the first outside surface  2122 A and that extends substantially the length of the first cage tower  2118 A. When the hens lay their eggs, the eggs may be collected in the first egg conveyor  2128 A. The first egg conveyor  2128 A carries the eggs from the aviary cage  2121 A to a collection area. The first perch  2129 A extends into the aisle  2120  at a first vertical distance  2123  from the scratching floor  2111 . A second perch  2129 B extends from the second outside surface  2122 B of the second aviary cage  2121 B and is positioned above a second egg conveyor  2128 B that extends from the second outside surface  2122 B and that extends substantially the length of the second cage tower  2118 B. The second egg conveyor  2128 B carries the eggs from the aviary cage  2121 B to a collection area. The second perch  2129 B extends into the aisle  2120  at a second vertical distance  2125  from the scratching floor  2111 . The first vertical distance  2123  is not equal to the second vertical distance  2125 . 
     In an embodiment, the first vertical distance  2123  and the second vertical distance  2125  define a third vertical distance  2127 . The third vertical distance  2127  is configured to permit a bird to hop from the first perch  2129 A to the second perch  2129 B or vice versa. In such an embodiment, the perches  2129 A,  2129 B are offset as a result of the aviary cages  2121 A,  2121 B being positioned at different heights. Accordingly, by offsetting the heights  2119 A,  2119 B of the similar aviary cages  2121 A,  2121 B the perches  2129 A,  2129 B become offset. 
     It will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art of aviary design that the offset cage and perch design may be replicated for as many cage tower combinations as are desired in an aviary  2110 . In each case of an adjacent set of cage towers  2118 , the perches  2129  of each cage tower  2118  should be offset from the perches  2129  of the adjacent cage tower  2118  by the third vertical distance  2127  to enable a bird to hop from perch  2129  to perch  2129  through aisle  2120  in a ladder-like manner. It will also be understood by one of ordinary skill that manufacturing, assembly, and installation time may be saved when building aviary  2110  when aviary cage units  2121  are similar to each other. Similar aviary cage units  2121  permit the construction of cage towers  2118  with perches  2129  that are offset in height from perches  2129  on cage towers  2118  that are separated by an aisle  2120  by simply installing the aviary cage unit  2121  in one cage tower  2118  at a height different from the height of installation for an aviary cage unit  2121  in an adjacent cage tower  2118 . 
     In an embodiment, the first cage tower  2118 A may include multiple first egg conveyors  2128 A, and the second cage tower  2118 B may include multiple second egg conveyors  2128 B, wherein the first egg conveyors  2128 A and the second egg conveyors  2128 B are staggered vertically relative to each other along the first and second outside surfaces  2131 A,  2131 B of the cage towers  2118 A,  2118 B. In an embodiment, the first cage tower  2118 A may include multiple first perches  2129 A, and the second cage tower  21181 B may include multiple second perches  2129 B, wherein the first perches  2129 A and the second perches  2129 B are staggered vertically relative to each other along the first and second outside surfaces  2131 A,  2131 B of the cage towers  2118 A,  2118 B. 
     When a first perch  2129 A and a second perch  2129 B are included in an embodiment, the first vertical distance  2123  and the second vertical distance  2125  define a third vertical distance  2127 , which third vertical distance is configured to facilitate the behavior of birds to hop from one surface to another and thereby create a ladder effect between the outside surfaces  2122 A,  2122 B of the aviary cages  2121 A,  2121 B and, concomitantly, the outside surfaces  2131 A,  2131 B of the cage towers  2118 A,  2118 B. 
     At least one belt  2136  extends through each cage tower  2118  to remove a deposit from at least part of the cage tower  2118 . In one embodiment, the belt  2136  extends through each cage  2118  substantially the length of the cage tower  2118 . In one embodiment, the belt  2136  extends approximately 400 feet along the length of each cage tower  2118 . In one embodiment, the belt  2136  carries deposits from the cage tower  2118  to a collection area (not shown) positioned outside of the cage tower  2118 . 
     A scratching floor  2111  extends between the first aviary cage  2121 A and the second aviary cage  2121 B. The scratching floor  2111  is oriented with respect to and positioned adjacent to a respective belt  2136 . In one embodiment, the scratching floor  2111  is planar with the respective belt  2136 . In an embodiment, the scratching floor  2111  is sloped to allow deposits to move back toward the respective belt  2136 . When the birds scratch the scratching floor  2111 , they scratch much of the deposits made on the scratching floor  2111  onto the belt  2136 . Accordingly, since it is common for birds to defecate in a scratching area, the scratching floor  2111  becomes relatively self-cleaning as the hens scratch. The scratching floor  2111  is configured so that the deposits are scratched back to the respective belt  2136 . Such configuration reduces the required frequency for cleaning of the aviary  2110 . Any eggs laid on the scratching floor  2111  may be directed back toward the belt  2136  by the scratching of the hens. These eggs are then collected from the belt  2136  and removed from the belt  2136 . 
     In one embodiment, the belt  2136  forms a floor of the aviary cage  2121 . Accordingly, the birds are allowed to move freely and walk on the belt  2136 . 
     In one embodiment, a method of constructing an aviary  2010  is provided. The method includes positioning a first cage tower  2018 A adjacent to a second cage tower  2018 B, wherein the first cage tower  2018 A includes a first aviary cage  2021 A, and the second cage tower  2018 B includes a second aviary cage  2021 B. In an embodiment, the method may include stacking multiple first aviary cages  2021 A on top of one another. In an embodiment, each aviary cage  2021  has a first end  2005  and a second end  2007 . In an embodiment, the method may include forming a level in at least one cage tower  2018  by placing at least two aviary cages  2021  in a row, with the first end  2005  of a first aviary cage  2021  adjacent the second end  2007  of a second aviary cage  2021 . In an embodiment, each first aviary cage  2021 A includes a first outside surface  2022 A enclosing an inside area  2013 A. In an embodiment, the method may include stacking multiple second aviary cages  2121 B on top of one another. In an embodiment, each second aviary cage  2021 B includes a second outside surface  2022 B enclosing an inside area  2013 B. The method may include extending an aisle  2020  between the first aviary cage  2021 A and the second aviary cage  2021 B. In an embodiment, the method may include positioning the second aviary cage  2021 B at a height  2019 B from the scratching floor  2011  that is greater than a height  2019 A of the first aviary cage  2021 A from the scratching floor  2011 . 
     In an embodiment, the method may include extending a scratching floor  2011  from a first aviary cage  2021 A through the aisle  2020  to a second aviary cage  2021 B. The method may include extending a first perch  2029 A from the first outside surface  2022 A of the first aviary cage  2021 A and into the aisle  2020  at a first vertical distance  2023  from a scratching floor  2011 . The method may include extending a second perch  2029 B from the second outside surface  2022 B of the second aviary cage  2021 B and into the aisle  2020  at a second vertical distance  2025  from the scratching floor  2011 . In an embodiment, the first vertical distance  2023  and the second vertical distance  2025  define a third vertical distance  2027  in a spaced apart arrangement to accommodate the behavior of birds to hop from one surface to another and thereby create a ladder effect between the outside surfaces  2022 A,  2022 B of the aviary cages  2021 A and  2021 B. 
     Each of the first cage tower  2018 A and the second cage tower  2018 B may include at least one belt  2136  positioned within the inside area  2013 A,  2013 B. The method further includes positioning the first perch  2029 A and the second perch  2029 B adjacent the respective belt  2136 . In one embodiment, the respective belt  2136  forms at least one floor of each cage tower  2018 A,  2018 B. The at least one belt  2136  is configured to remove a deposit from at least part of the respective cage tower  2018 A,  2018 B. An egg remover  2139  may be positioned at an end of each belt  2136  to remove eggs from the belt  2136 . The egg remover  2139  may include at least one brush  2149  to direct material to at least one side  2147  of the belt  2136 . 
       FIG. 24  illustrates an aviary  3010  having a floor  3014 , which aviary  3010  is enclosed by exterior walls  3016  and a roof  3040 . The exterior walls  3016  define an interior surface  3030 . The exterior walls  3016  enclose at least one cage tower  3018  where hens may be caged. Each at least one cage tower  3018  includes an outside surface  3031  enclosing an inside area  3032 . In an embodiment having multiple cage towers, an aisle  3020  extends between each cage tower  3018  to provide an inspection area and space in which the birds housed in the aviary  3010  may move. In an embodiment, an aisle  3020  is positioned between a cage tower  3018  and the respective exterior wall  3016 . In an embodiment having multiple cage towers, at least one scratching floor  3011  extends between each at least one cage tower  3018 . In an embodiment, a scratching floor  3011  extends between the interior surface  3030  of each exterior wall  3016  and the adjacent cage tower  3018 . 
       FIGS. 25 and 26  illustrate at least one aviary cage  3021 . Each at least one cage tower  3018  includes at least one aviary cage  3021 . Each at least one aviary cage  3021  includes a first side  3025  and a second side  3023  enclosing an inside area  3013 . At least one bump rail  3015  extends from each of the first side  3025  and the second side  3023  and into the respective aisle  3020  to allow equipment to be maneuvered through the aisle  3020  without damaging the at least one cage tower  3018  or the at least one aviary cage  3021 . The bump rail  3015  may be used by the birds as a perch. 
     Each aviary cage  3021  includes at least one nesting area  3027 . The nesting area  3027  provides space where a hen may sit to lay eggs. As the hens lay their eggs, the eggs are collected in egg conveyors  3028  that extend along the sides  3025  and  3023  of the aviary cage  3021 . The egg conveyors  3028  carry the eggs from the nesting area  3027  to a collection area (not shown). 
     At least one belt  3036  extends through the cage tower  3018  to remove a deposit from at least part of the cage tower  3018 . In an embodiment, a plurality of belts  3036  extends through the cage tower  3018  to remove deposits from at least part of the tower  3018 . The plurality of belts  3036  are positioned at various vertical locations within each cage tower  3018 . At least one belt  3036  of the plurality of belts  3036  is positioned below the nesting area  3027  of each aviary cage  3021 . Additional belts  3036  of the plurality of belts  3036  extend through the nesting area  3027  of each aviary cage  3021 . In one embodiment, at least one belt  3036  extends through the cage tower  3018  substantially the length of the cage tower  3018 . In one embodiment, the belt  3036  extends approximately 400 feet along the length of the cage tower  3018 . In one embodiment, the belt  3036  carries manure from the cage tower  3018  to a collection area (not shown) positioned outside of the cage tower  3018 . 
     In one embodiment, a grate  3039  is positioned over the belt  3036 . A portion of the grate  3039  is illustrated in  FIG. 27 . As illustrated in  FIGS. 25-27 , the grate  3039  includes openings  3082  therethrough that allow deposits, but not eggs, to pass through the grate  3039  to the belt  3036 . The grate  3039  has a first end  3041  and a second end  3043 . The first end  3041  extends to the first side  3025  of the aviary cage  3021 . The second end  3043  extends to the second side  3023  of the aviary cage  3021 . In an embodiment (not shown), the grate  3039  is flat. In an embodiment, the grate  3039  is shaped so that it is sloped toward each end  3041  and  3043 . Each end  3041 ,  3043  of the grate  3039  is positioned adjacent an egg conveyor  3028 . The egg conveyors  3028  are adapted to carry eggs from the aviary cage  3021  to a collection area (not shown). In one embodiment, a grate  3039  is positioned over each belt  3036 . 
     In an embodiment, a first portion  3045  of the grate  3039  is angled downward toward an egg conveyor  3028  positioned adjacent the first end  3041  of the grate  3039 . In this embodiment, a second portion  3047  of the grate  3039  is angled downward toward an egg conveyor  3028  positioned adjacent the second end  3043  of the grate  3039 . In one embodiment, the first portion  3045  and second portion  3047  of the grate  3039  each extend from a centerline  3049  of the grate  3039 . In one embodiment, the first portion  3045  and the second portion  3047  are angled from the centerline  3049  at approximately a 7° to 8° angle. Eggs laid on the second portion  3047  of grate  3039  roll to the respective egg conveyor  3028  adjacent the second end  3043  of the grate  3039 , which is in the direction of arrow A (shown in  FIG. 28 ). The egg conveyor  3028  carries the eggs to the collection area. Eggs laid on the first portion  3045  of the grate  3039  roll to the respective egg conveyor  3028  adjacent the first end  3041  of the grate  3039 . In an embodiment in which the grate  3039  is flat, the hens scratch the eggs to an egg conveyor  3028 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, a scratching floor  3011  extends between adjacent cage towers  3018 . In an embodiment, a scratching floor  3011  extends between the cage tower  3018  and the respective exterior wall  3016 . In some embodiments, the scratching floor is solid. The scratching floor  3011  is oriented with respect to at least one belt  3036 . In one embodiment, the scratching floor  3011  is oriented with respect to a belt  3036  that extends below the nesting area  3027  of an aviary cage  3021 . In one embodiment, the scratching floor  3011  is sloped to allow deposits to move back toward the belt  3036 . In one embodiment, the scratching floor  3011  is crowned so that each side of the scratching floor  3011  slopes toward a belt  3036 . In particular, in the crowned scratching floor embodiment, the scratching floor  3011  is sloped toward the grate  3039 . In one embodiment (not shown), the scratching floor  3011  is flat. In an embodiment, the ends  3041  and  3043  of the grate  3039  are positioned below the scratching floor  3011  so that the egg conveyors  3028  extend below the scratching floor  3011 . 
     The scratching floor  3011  provides a pecking area for the hens to utilize while they are not nesting. In particular, the scratching floor  3011  provides a scratching area for birds within the aviary  3010 . When the birds scratch the scratching floor  3011 , they scratch much of the deposits made on the scratching floor  3011  onto the respective belt  3036 . Accordingly, since it is common for birds to defecate in a scratching area, the scratching floor  3011  becomes relatively self-cleaning as the hens scratch. 
     Particularly, by way of example, deposits may be scratched from the scratching floor  3011  in the direction of arrow B (shown in  FIG. 28 ) toward the grate  3039 . Deposits may be scratched toward a grate  3039  from either direction on the scratching floor  3011 . The deposits small enough to pass through the openings  3082  in the grate  3039  then pass through those openings  3082  and onto the belt  3036 , from which they are removed from the aviary  3010 . Such configuration greatly reduces the amount of ammonia captured within the aviary  3010  and also reduces the required frequency for cleaning of the aviary  3010 . Those of skill in the art will appreciate that, while  FIG. 28  illustrates the movement of a deposit toward the second end  3043  of the grate  3039 , a mirror image of the movement of a deposit toward the first end  3041  of the grate  3039  may occur when a deposit is made on the first portion  3045  of the grate  3039  or on the scratching floor  3011  and scratched back toward the first end  3041  of the grate  3039 . 
     Any eggs laid on the scratching floor  3011  are directed toward an egg conveyor  3028  by the scratching of the hens. By way of example and not of limitation, eggs laid on the scratching floor  3011  illustrated in  FIG. 28  may be scratched in the direction of arrow B toward the grate  3039 . Eggs may be scratched toward a grate  3039  from either direction on the scratching floor  3011 . Upon reaching the grate  3039 , the eggs roll or are scratched toward the respective egg conveyor  3028 , such as, for example, in the direction of arrow A along the grate  3039 , under the scratching floor  3011 , and into the egg conveyor  3028 . In an embodiment (not shown), eggs laid on a flat scratching floor  3011  are rolled by the scratching of the hens toward the grate  3039  and, upon reaching the grate  3039 , are scratched by the hens into the egg conveyor  3028 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, a first cage tower  3018 A includes a first aviary cage  3021 A, and a second cage tower  3018 B includes a second aviary cage  3021 B, which second aviary cage  3021 B is similar to the first aviary cage  3021 A. A third cage tower  3018 C includes a third aviary cage  3021 C, which third aviary cage  3021 C is similar to the first aviary cage  3021 A and the second aviary cage  3021 B. In an embodiment, multiple first aviary cages  3021 A are stacked on top of one another. In an embodiment, each first aviary cage  3021 A has a first outside surface  3022 A enclosing an inside area  3013 A. In an embodiment, multiple second aviary cages  3021 B are stacked on top of one another. In an embodiment, each second aviary cage  3021 B includes a second outside surface  3022 B enclosing an inside area  3013 B. In an embodiment, multiple third aviary cages  3021 C are stacked on top of one another. In an embodiment, each third aviary cage  3021 C includes a third outside surface  3022 C enclosing an inside area  3013 C. The second aviary cage  3021 B is positioned adjacent the first aviary cage  3021 A and an aisle  3020  is formed therebetween. The second aviary cage  3021 B is also positioned adjacent the third aviary cage  3021 C and an aisle  3020  is formed therebetween. The second aviary cage  3021 B is positioned at a height  3019 B from the scratching floor  3011 . The first aviary cage  3021 A is positioned at a height  3019 A from the scratching floor  3011 . Height  3019 B is greater than height  3019 A. 
     Referring to an embodiment, a first perch  3029 A extends from the first outside surface  3031 A of the first cage tower  3018 A and is positioned above a first egg conveyor  3028 A that extends from the first outside surface  3031 A along the sides  3025  and  3023  of the aviary cage  3021 A. The first egg conveyor  3028 A extends substantially the length of the first cage tower  3018 A. When the hens lay their eggs, the eggs may be collected in the first egg conveyor  3028 A. The first egg conveyor  3028 A carries the eggs from the aviary cage  3021 A to a collection area (not shown). The first perch  3029 A extends into the aisle  3020  at a first vertical distance  3070  from the scratching floor  3011 . A second perch  3029 B extends from the second outside surface  3031 B of the second cage tower  3018 B and is positioned above a second egg conveyor  3028 B that extends from the second outside surface  3031 B along the sides  3025  and  3023  of the aviary cage  3021 B. The second egg conveyor  3028 B extends substantially the length of the second cage tower  3018 B. The second egg conveyor  3028 B carries the eggs from the aviary cage  3021 B to a collection area (not shown). The second perch  3029 B extends into the aisle  3020  at a second vertical distance  3072  from the scratching floor  3011 . The first vertical distance  3070  is not equal to the second vertical distance  3072 . In an embodiment, the first vertical distance  3070  and the second vertical distance  3072  define a third vertical distance  3074 . The third vertical distance  3074  is configured to permit a bird to hop from the first perch  3029 A to the second perch  3029 B or vice versa. 
     In an embodiment, the first cage tower  3018 A may include multiple first perches  3029 A, corresponding to the number of first egg conveyors  3028 A, and the second cage tower  3018 B may include multiple second perches  3029 B, corresponding to the number of second egg conveyors  3028 B, wherein the first perches  3029 A and the second perches  3029 B are staggered in relation to each other along the first and second outside surfaces  3031 A,  3031 B of the cage towers  3018 A,  3018 B. In one embodiment, the first perches  3029 A and the second perches  3029 B are staggered vertically on the first and second outside surfaces  3031 A,  3031 B of the cage towers  3018 A,  3018 B. In one embodiment, the first perches  3029 A and the second perches  3029 B are staggered horizontally along the first and second outside surfaces  3031 A,  3031 B of the cage towers  3018 A,  3018 B. In one embodiment, the first perches  3029 A and the second perches  3029 B are staggered vertically and horizontally on the first and second outside surfaces  3031 A,  3031 B of the cage towers  3018 A,  3018 B. 
     In the illustrated embodiments, the scratching floors  3011  form three levels  3017  in the aviary  3010 , wherein each level  3017  may be accessed by a worker. A hen may walk, peck, scratch, socialize, sleep, and lay eggs, as the bird desires in the inside areas  3013 ,  3032 . These same daily activities can be carried out on the at least one scratching floor  3011 . The at least one aviary cage  3021  may house a specific group of birds or it may be open to birds from other aviary cages  3021 . In an embodiment, the cage tower  3018  may be configured to allow the birds to move freely up and down the cage tower  3018 . In an embodiment, the cage tower  3018  may be configured to keep birds in the aviary segregated by vertical level  3017 . When the hens lay their eggs, the eggs may be collected in egg conveyors  3028  that extend along the sides of the aviary cage  3021 . The egg conveyors  3028  carry the eggs from the aviary cage  3021  to a collection area. 
     When a first perch  3029 A and a second perch  3029 B are included in an embodiment, the first vertical distance  3070  and the second vertical distance  3072  define a third vertical distance  3074 , which third vertical distance  3074  is configured to facilitate the behavior of birds to hop from one surface to another and thereby create a ladder effect between the outside surfaces  3022 A,  3022 B of the aviary cages  3021 A,  3021 B and, concomitantly, outside surfaces  3031 A,  3031 B of the cage towers  3018 A,  3018 B. 
     In one embodiment, a method of forming an aviary  3010  including an aviary cage  3021  having a first side  3025 , a second side  3023 , and a nesting area  3027  is provided. The method includes positioning the nesting area  3027  between the first side  3025  and the second side  3023  and extending a belt  3036  through the nesting area  3027 . A grate  3039  is positioned over the belt  3036  so that a first end  3041  of the grate  3039  extends to the first side  3025  of the aviary cage  3021 , and a second end  3043  of the grate  3039  extends to a second side  3023  of the aviary cage  3021 . A first egg conveyor  3028  is positioned at the first end  3041  of the grate  3039 , and a second egg conveyor  3028  is positioned at the second end  3043  of the grate  3039 . 
     In one embodiment, the grate  3039  is flat. In one embodiment, a first portion  3045  of the grate  3039  is angled downward toward the egg conveyor  3028  on side  3025  of aviary cage  3021 , and a second portion  3047  of the grate  3039  is angled downward toward the egg conveyor  3028  on side  3023  of aviary cage  3021 . In one embodiment, the belt  3036  is positioned to capture and transport debris that falls through the grate  3039 . In one embodiment, a scratching floor  3011  is extended from the aviary cage  3021  adjacent to the grate  3039 . In one embodiment, the scratching floor  3011  is sloped toward the grate  3039  to facilitate movement of a deposit on the scratching floor  3011  to the grate  3039 . In one embodiment, the scratching floor  3011  is a solid floor. In one embodiment, a belt  3037  is extended above the aviary cage  3021 . The belt  3037  is positioned to capture and transport deposits that fall onto it. Birds are allowed to move freely and walk on the belt  3037 . 
     In an embodiment (not shown), the cage tower  3018  includes the belts  3036  without the grates  3039 . In such an embodiment, the belts  3036 ,  3037  carry deposits from the cage tower  3018 , as described previously. In particular, deposits may be scratched onto the belts  3036  from the scratching floor  3011 . In one embodiment, eggs are laid directly on the belts  3036 ,  3037  and the birds walk on the moving belts  3036 ,  3037 . 
     In one embodiment, a first aviary cage  3021 A and a second aviary cage  3021 B are provided and are positioned adjacent each other. In such an embodiment, the method includes extending an aisle  3020  between the first aviary cage  3021 A and the second aviary cage  3021 B. A first perch  3029 A is extended from the first aviary cage  3021 A and into the aisle  3020  at a first vertical distance  3070  from a scratching floor  3011 . A second perch  3029 B is extended from the second aviary cage  3021 B and into the aisle  3020  at a second vertical distance  3072  from the scratching floor  3011 . The first and second vertical distances  3070 ,  3072  from the scratching floor  3011  are not equal. 
     In one embodiment, the aviary  3010  includes a plurality of first perches  3029 A and a plurality of second perches  3029 B. The method in this embodiment includes horizontally offsetting the plurality of first perches  3029 A from one another and horizontally offsetting the plurality of second perches  3029 B from one another. In one embodiment, the aviary  3010  includes a plurality of first perches  3029 A and a plurality of second perches  3029 B, and the method includes vertically offsetting the plurality of first perches  3029 A from one another and vertically offsetting the plurality of second perches  3029 B from one another. In one embodiment, the first vertical distance  3070  and the second vertical distance  3072  define a third vertical distance  3074 . The third vertical distance  3074  enables an animal to hop between the first perch  3029 A and the second perch  3029 B or vice versa. In such an embodiment, the perches  3029 A,  3029 B are offset as a result of the aviary cages  3021 A,  3021 B being positioned at different heights. Accordingly, by offsetting the heights  3019 A,  3019 B of the similar aviary cages  3021 A,  3021 B the perches  3029 A,  3029 B become offset. 
     It will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art of aviary design that the offset cage and perch design may be replicated for as many cage tower combinations as are desired in an aviary  3010 . In each case of an adjacent set of cage towers  3018 , the perches  3029  of each cage tower  3018  should be offset from the perches  3029  of the adjacent cage tower  3018  by the third vertical distance  3027  to enable a bird to hop from perch  3029  to perch  3029  through aisle  3020  in a ladder-like manner. It will also be understood by one of ordinary skill that manufacturing, assembly, and installation time may be saved when building aviary  3010  when aviary cage units  3021  are similar to each other. Similar aviary cage units  3021  permit the construction of cage towers  3018  with perches  3029  that are offset in height from perches  3029  on cage towers  3018  that are separated by an aisle  3020  by simply installing the aviary cage unit  3021  in one cage tower  3018  at a height different from the height of installation for an aviary cage unit  3021  in an adjacent cage tower  3018 . 
       FIGS. 29-31  illustrate an aviary  5010  configured to house hens. It should be noted that the system and method described in  FIGS. 29-32  may be utilized with any of the embodiments described in  FIGS. 1-28 . The aviary  5010  may include a floor  5014 , exterior walls  5016 , and a roof  5012 . In an embodiment, the floor  5014  is concrete. The exterior walls  5016  and the roof  5012  enclose at least one cage tower  5018  where hens may be caged. Although  FIG. 29  illustrates three cage towers  5018 , it should be noted that the aviary  5010  may be constructed with any number of cage towers  5018 , including a single cage tower  5018 . In an embodiment having more than two cage towers  5018 , an open space  5020  may extend between each adjacent cage tower  5018 . In an embodiment having a single cage tower  5018 , an open space  5020  is present on at least one side of the cage tower  5018 . Open space  5020  may likewise be positioned between the cage tower  5018  and one or more respective exterior walls  5016 . The open space  5020  may include a scratching floor  5011  on which hens can move freely, peck the floor with their beaks, and scratch the floor with their feet. 
     Each cage tower  5018  includes a plurality of vertical support members  5050  that are disposed on the floor  5014  and support and provide attachment points for the roof  5012 . In one embodiment, the vertical support members  5050  are continuous from the floor  5014  to the roof  5012 . In an embodiment, the vertical support members  5050  extend from a top of the cage tower  5018 . In an embodiment, the vertical support members  5050  extend from the sides of the cage tower  5018 . In one embodiment, the vertical support members  5050  include several members that are joined together between the floor  5014  and the roof  5012 . The vertical support members  5050  support at least one aviary cage  5021  within the cage tower  5018 . In one embodiment, the vertical support members  5050  extend above the at least one aviary cage  5021 . In one embodiment, the vertical support members  5050  extend below the at least one aviary cage  5021 . Those of skill in the art will recognize that vertical support members  5050  may exist in any configuration, including but not limited to trusses, I-beams, A-frames, etc., that are capable of supporting at least the at least one aviary cage  5021  and the roof  5012 . 
     In at least one embodiment, the at least one cage tower  5018  includes a plurality of support members  5051  that support and provide attachment points for the exterior walls  5016 . In one embodiment, the support members  5051  are continuous from the cage tower  5018  to the exterior walls  5016 . In one embodiment, the support members  5051  include several members that are joined together between the cage tower  5018  and the exterior walls  5016 . The support members  5051  support at least one aviary cage  5021  within the cage tower  5018 . Those of skill in the art will recognize that support members  5051  may exist in any configuration, including but not limited to trusses, I-beams, A-frames, etc., that are capable of supporting at least the at least one aviary cage  5021  and the exterior walls  5016 . 
     The aviary cage  5021 , as illustrated, may include various sloped nesting platforms  5024  where a hen may sit to lay eggs. The nesting platforms  5024  allow the hens to move freely up and down the cage tower  5018  to a desirable inside area  5013 . As the hens lay their eggs, the eggs are collected in egg conveyors  5028  that extend along sides of the nesting platforms  5024 . The egg conveyors  5028  carry the eggs from the inside area  5013  to a collection area. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, a scratching floor  5011  extends from the cage tower  5018 . In some embodiments, the scratching floor  5011  is solid. In an embodiment having more than one cage tower  5018 , a scratching floor  5011  may extend between any adjacent cage towers  5018 . Additionally, a scratching floor  5011  may extend between the cage tower  5018  and the respective exterior wall  5016 . In an embodiment having more than two cage towers  5018 , a scratching floor may extend from adjacent cage towers  5018  but not be continuous between adjacent cage towers  5018 . In an embodiment in which the scratching floor  5011  extends between two cage towers  5018  and is connected to each cage tower  5018 , the scratching floor  5011  may additionally provide stability to each of the cage towers  5018  by joining the cage towers  5018  together. Moreover, the scratching floor  5011  may join the cage tower  5018  adjacent one or more of the exterior walls  5016  to one or more of the exterior walls  5016  to provide stability to the aviary  5010 . 
     In one embodiment, the roof  5012  includes a roof frame  5052  to which the roof  5012  is attached. In an embodiment, the roof frame  5052  is constructed of wooden beams. In one embodiment, the roof frame  5052  is constructed of metal beams. In an embodiment, the roof frame is constructed in a truss configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the roof frame  5052  is attached to the plurality of vertical support members  5050 . In an embodiment having a plurality of cage towers  5018  each with at least one vertical support member  5050 , the roof frame  5052  is attached to at least one vertical support member  5050  of each of the plurality of cage towers  5018 . The roof frame  5052  may be attached to the vertical support members  5050  piecemeal, i.e. one beam of the roof frame  5052  at a time, for example. In an embodiment, the roof frame  5052  may be constructed separately and then secured to the vertical support members  5050 . The roof frame  5052  is attached to the plurality of vertical support members  5050  so that the roof frame  5052  is supported by the plurality of vertical support members  5050 . The roof frame  5052  is constructed above the cage tower  5018  so that the roof frame  5052  at least partially covers the cage tower  5018 . The roof  5012  is attached to the roof frame  5052  to at least partially cover the cage tower  5018 . In an embodiment, the roof  5012  may comprise metal. In an embodiment, the roof  5012  may comprise underlayment and roofing shingles. In an embodiment, the roof  5012  may comprise underlayment and metal panels. 
     In an embodiment, at least one wall frame  5054  is attached to the roof frame  5052 . In an embodiment, the at least one wall frame  5054  is attached to the plurality of support members  5051  so that the at least one wall frame  5054  is supported by the plurality of support members  5051 . In an embodiment, the at least one wall frame  5054  is attached to both the roof frame  5052  and the plurality of support members  5051 . In an embodiment, the wall frames  5054  are constructed around the at least one cage tower  5018  so that the wall frames  5054  surround the at least one cage tower  5018 . In an embodiment, at least a portion of each wall frame  5054  is secured to the floor  5014 . An exterior wall  5016  is attached to each wall frame  5054  to enclose the at least one cage tower  5018 . In an embodiment, the at least one wall frame  5054  is attached to a side of the cage tower  5018  by the plurality of support members  5051 . Those of skill in the art of construction will understand the variations of materials available for use in constructing the floor  5014 , roof  5012 , roof frame  5052 , at least one wall frame  5054 , and exterior walls  5016 . 
       FIG. 32  illustrates a method  5100  of building an aviary  5010 . At step  5102 , the floor  5014  is constructed to support the aviary  5010 . It should be noted that the floor  5014  may be constructed of concrete, timbers, simple attachment points set in the ground for vertical support members  5050 , and other options familiar to skilled artisans. The choice of materials may depend on the soil, cost considerations, or the like. In one embodiment, a cage tower  5018  is constructed with at least one aviary cage  5021 , at step  5104 , with a plurality of vertical support members  5050  that are disposed on and extend upward from the floor  5014 . At step  5105 , the cage tower  5018  having at least one aviary cage  5021  is disposed on the floor  5014 . At step  5106 , a plurality of support members  5051  are extended from the aviary cage  5021 . In an embodiment, the plurality of support members  5051  include horizontal supports inside the cage tower  5018 . In an embodiment, the vertical support members  5050  and support members  5051  support the at least one aviary cage  5021 . In an embodiment, the vertical support members  5050  and support members  5051  support a plurality of aviary cages  5021 . 
     At step  5107 , a roof frame  5052  is attached to the vertical support members  5050 . In an embodiment when the aviary  5010  includes a plurality of cage towers  5018 , the roof frame  5052  is affixed to the vertical support members  5050  of each cage tower  5018 . The roof frame  5052  is connected to the cage tower  5018  by the vertical support members  5050  and supported by the vertical support members  5050 . The roof frame  5052  at least partially covers the cage tower  5018 . 
     At step  5108 , wall frames  5054  are affixed to and supported by the support members  5051 . At step  5109 , wall frames  5054  are attached to the roof frame  5052 . By supporting the wall frames  5054  with the support members  5051  and the roof frame  5052 , time and materials may be saved in constructing the aviary  5010 . The wall frames  5054  extend between the roof frame  5052  and the floor  5014 . In one embodiment, the wall frames  5054  may be disposed on the floor  5014 . In one embodiment, the wall frames  5054  may be secured to the floor  5014 . 
     At step  5110 , the roof  5012  is attached to the roof frame  5052  to at least partially cover the cage tower  5018 . At step  5112 , the exterior walls  5016  are attached to the wall frames  5054 . Attaching the wall frames  5054  to the support members  5051  and the roof frame  5052  stabilizes the wall against winds and other elements that may create a force against the exterior walls  5016 . In one embodiment, the exterior walls  5016  partially enclose the cage tower  5018 . Alternatively, the exterior walls  5016  may entirely enclose the cage tower  5018 . 
     Accordingly, the vertical support members  5050  and support members  5051  of the cage tower  5018  support the external structure, i.e. exterior walls  5016  and roof  5012 , of the aviary  5010 . By constructing the aviary  5010  with the vertical support members  5050  and support members  5051  of the cage towers  5018 , time and costs associated with constructing the aviary  5010  as a standalone structure may be reduced. Additionally, the use of the vertical support members  5050  and support members  5051  to support the aviary  5010  may increase the stability of the aviary  5010  in storms or the like. 
     While the embodiments have been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only certain embodiments have been shown and described and that all changes and modifications that come within the spirit of the embodiments are desired to be protected.