16th June 2025
The AonixAviary v44
In August 2024, we began an exciting volunteering project, working with Brockswood Animal Sanctuary (located in Sedgley) on the restoration of a historic aviary – creating a new home for Meriden, the Spotted Eagle Owl.
Introduction to The AonixAviary
Aonix Limited has been long-term supporters of Brockswood Animal Sanctuary, participating in corporate volunteer initiatives and sponsoring animals on behalf of each team member. In August 2024, we took our partnership to the next level, setting off on an exciting project to restore and modernise one of the sanctuary’s historic aviaries, originally built all the way back in the 1960’s!
Our mission was to help transform two aviaries into one, allowing Meriden to thrive in more space, and in an environment carefully planned to meet his needs. It seemed like such a huge job at the beginning of our journey, but as the weeks progressed, we recognised the progress we were making as a team – with our incredible Brockswood guide, John, who worked closely with us week after week.
Now looking back, there were 4 different parts which lead us to the completion of Meriden’s new home. From cutting down trees and jet washing, to landscaping and construction, it has truly been a journey for all of us – one which has had such an impact not only for the sanctuary, but also for the whole Aonix Limited team.
Here's a look at how the interior of the aviary looked during our first week of the project:
Meet Meriden
Also known as the African Spotted Eagle Owl. Meriden was brought Brockswood Animal Sanctuary by the RSPCA several years ago when his owners could no longer care for him. He prefers his own company, and with his new aviary, he will be able to thrive in more space, and with varied perches and enrichment.
Did you know? The African Spotted Eagle Owl is the most common species of eagle owl in southern Africa. They have an extremely large range, being found in most of sub-Saharan Africa, and parts of the Arabian Peninsula as well.
Part 1 - Tidying & Clearing Out
We excitedly set off on our volunteering journey on a sunny day in August 2024. Throughout these first weeks, we collectively cut off branches, tore off old timber, cut down wired netting, and spent a lot of time clearing out everything, giving us space for the transformation. It was hard work, but it was just as rewarding, and we were already beginning to see the progress we were making as a team!
It wasn’t just the aviary itself which needed attention, there were many trees growing over the aviary, blocking most of the natural light. So, Ben (who clearly does not have a fear of heights), alongside our Brockswood guide, John, went on top of the roof to clear out the mass of branches and leaves, passing them down to the ground team. This made such a huge difference, and the natural light was now spilling into the aviary from above. We were amazed at how the project was shaping up already - meanwhile Meriden was none the wiser that we were working on what was soon to be his new home!
Part 2 - Feathering & Façade
With the AonixAviary already looking drastically different, we eagerly began the next important stages in our volunteering journey, starting with a satisfying jet wash for the brick wall at the back of the enclosure. After the jet wash, the wall was now looking pristine.
We then started the process of feathering – which is simply stacking timber side to side, to create panelling. Brockswood Animal Sanctuary rely on donations and visitors to support their projects, meaning the kindness of others directly impacts what Brockswood, and volunteers can achieve! Due to this, resourceful techniques such as feathering are a great way to create a stunning interior, while utilising the available materials.
Unfortunately, at this point, Brockswood Animal Sanctuary suffered a phase of flooding, just one of the challenges they face. But, after a short while, we were back, and better than ever. We began working on the new façade (front of the aviary) by constructing a frame and fixing wired netting and then fitted this in place of the old façade. This made such an incredible difference, and the original aviary was now unrecognisable, and we were ready to keep moving forward.
The Unveiling of our Progress So Far
The Aonix Limited team holds Brockswood Animal Sanctuary very close to their hearts, and every year, we plan exciting events where we all meet up at the Sanctuary, check in with our sponsored animals, and catch up with the Brockswood team.
We thought it would be a great idea to coincide our next event with the unveiling of our progress on the AonixAviary, with a vibrant Mexican Fiesta lunch, alongside a variety of team-building activities. This event culminated in the official presentation of all the work we had completed so far on the AonixAviary!
Part 3 - The Interior & Landscaping
After our recent event, and now that the front of the aviary was all in place, along with the feathering, it was looking very tidy and full of opportunity. We next constructed a short, staggered timber wall which would sit between the pathway at the front of the interior and raised ground. This would enhance the appearance and be another place for Meriden to perch on and observe the visitors as they pass by. To fix the timber wall in place, we created cement mix, and then used additional gravel to cover the path, uplifting the appearance.
It was now January 2025, and the weather was very cold, but this didn’t stop our progress. The aviary was originally built in the 1960’s, and therefore every part of it needed our attention – so we replaced the old doors with brand new ones, now featuring improved double-door access to help Brockswood provide even better welfare and bioscecurity.
There are so many things to consider when refurbishing an aviary, or for any large project, but taking small steps, and with the incredible oversight of our Brockswood guide, John, the project moved and developed smoothly allowing us to consistently see the difference we were making.
Part 4 - Nest Box & Finishing Touches
We were now onto the final stages of our volunteering journey, and we were so impressed with everything we had achieved so far! Now it was time to put on the new netted roof, and yet again our fearless Ben would help to put this in place. Back near the beginning of our journey, we cleared out the trees hanging over the aviary, so now, with the addition of the new roof, there is now more vertical space for Meriden to enjoy - complete with branches and perches.
John then had the great idea of having an additional perch at the very top of the façade for Meriden, giving him not only an incredible view of the whole sanctuary, but a place to look down on all visitors who pass by – which we all knew Meriden would love!
The end of our journey was near, and we moved onto the finishing touches, where we tidied up the interior and spread around wood chippings, making sure the space was as welcoming as possible for when Meriden moves in. To finish off, we painted Meriden’s next box a vibrant red and fitted it back in place.
And just like that, the AonixAviary was ready for it's awaited resident.
Moving In Day
After almost a year of teamwork and dedication, working closely with our Brockswood guide, John, the AonixAviary was officially complete, and on the 6th June 2025, Meriden moved in! It was an incredible day, and it was truly a special moment shared by all, fixated on Meriden’s grand entrance into his brand-new home, as Ben held the carrier.
Here's the special moment Meriden was welcomed into his new home:
Our Volunteering Project
From start to finish, this has been an incredible project that has had such an impact not only on Brockswood and Meriden, but also the whole Aonix Limited team. It has truly felt like our partnership with Brockswood has grown significantly, and we can’t wait to continue our support for the sanctuary 2025 onwards.
We’d like to dedicate our appreciation to everyone who made this project possible:
The Brockswood team, for their encouragement, and the incredible work they do day in and day out.
John, our Brockswood guide, for supporting us every step of the way.
All of Brookswood's generous supporters and donators.
Amanda Sloan, for bringing Aonix Limited and Brockswood Animal Sanctuary together, beginning our partnership.
The Aonix Limited team, for bringing the AonixAviary to life
Merlin, the sanctuary cat, our adorable lucky charm:
And of course... Meriden, in all his glory:
Brockswood Animal Sanctuary
Loving referred to as "a little oasis in the Black Country", Brockswood Animal Sanctuary is a place of refuge for sick, injured, and mistreated animals. It was founded with a passion for animal welfare and a commitment to making a difference in the lives of vulnerable animals.
The Aonix Limited team admire all of the work Brockswood do, and are honored to support their mission. We encourage you to see Brockswood Animal Sanctuary for yourself, and even have a look at the AonixAviary and meet Meriden!
Brockswood Animal Sanctuary
Catholic Lane
Sedgley
West Midlands, DY3 3YE
