Parakeets and budgies

Overview

Keet, budgie, parakeet, Melopsittacus undulatus.... Whatever you want to call him, the friendly, funny Budgerigar is the most popular avian companion. Hailing from Australia, this gentle bird is content to perch on his caretaker's shoulder and will keep his human family in good humor with his budgie antics. And though skills vary from bird to bird, members of this highly social species can be taught a repertoire of words.

Budgerigar (shortened to budgie) is the more accurate name for the common pet parakeet, since the term "parakeet" refers to a number of unrelated parrot species.

Commonly seen with green, yellow, blue or grey plumage, budgies have also been bred in a rainbow of colors, including violet and turquoise. In general, you can tell a male bird by his bright blue cere, the fleshy area just above the beak. Measuring in at about seven inches, budgies have an average lifespan of four to seven years.

Selecting your pet budgies

Purchase your bird from a breeder or pet store specializing in avians; you can also look into adopting a bird, too, and give a lucky tweeter a second chance at a good home. Keep in mind that these are social birds, and will be very happy to share cages with one or more budgie pals. One bird kept as a pet will be content, too, as long as you shower him with plenty of attention.

Tips on proper budgie housing

When it comes to selecting housing, the bigger, the better – especially if you are getting more than one bird. A typical cage should be at least 25 inches tall and 25 inches from front to back, large enough for your feathered friend to stretch and flap his wings without hitting the sides of the cage. Because budgies like to climb all over their cages and perches, they prefer slightly taller, rather than wider, cages.

These birds love to play, so your little guy will need toys to keep him busy. Swings, rings, bells and wheels fit the bill, and scout out your pet supply store for toys specially designed with budgies in mind. Your feathered friend will appreciate a shallow dish of water placed on the cage floor every now and then – few things are more fun than a good bath, but be prepared to clean the cage at bathtime's end. You can also purchase a bird bath that fits right in the cage door.

Do keep in mind that the cage is your bird's home. You will need to work on taming exercises before giving him some freedom.

Dietary needs for budgies

To ensure that your bird receives proper nutrition, feed him budgie pellets or seed mix. Make sure you are offering a complete formula that contains nutrient supplements. Small amounts of hard-boiled egg, whole wheat bread and corn bread also make tasty snacks. You should also offer your bird fresh fruit or veggies every day; apples, pears, carrots and leafy greens seem to be budgie faves, but be sure to wash all fresh food first. Lots of fresh water and a cuttlebone round out the requirements.

As with any pet, be alert for symptoms of ill health in your bird. If you think your pet may be sick, consult with your veterinarian. Be sure to read our other articles on bird care – the more you know, the happier you (and your budgie!) will be.