Abstract: An observatory cage (10) for small animals, sized for ease of handling and use by children and having utility features that also function as child amusement devices, is disclosed. The observatory cage has a floor (11) and a plurality of non-transparent walls (12-16) cooperatively defining an internal cavity (20) for housing small animals for observation. The cavity is provided with access means (12, 22) for loading and unloading, and with ventilation means (24). A plug member (26) normally forming a portion of one of the walls of the observatory is removable to expose an observation port (28) into the cavity. Obstruction means (30) close egress through the observation port when the plug is removed. Means (32, 34) are provided for securing the plug member to the cage when removed from the observation port. Additional features include a reservoir (40), a counter (46), a foliage hanger (40) and a carrying handle (50).