LogoPet-1.png
BestForPets is reader-supported. Your purchases via our links may earn us an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Our Affiliate Disclaimer

Budgie (Parakeet): Complete Care Guide

The Budgie, sometimes known as a parakeet, is a popular pet in the United States and elsewhere. These colorful birds are frequently grown in captivity, so their purchase does not affect their natural environment, and selective breeding allows you to choose the colors and patterns of your bird.

If you are considering bringing one of these creatures into your house but would like to learn more about it beforehand, continue reading "Budgie (Parakeet): %year% Complete Care Guide" by BestForPets (bestforpets.org) as we cover its colors, nutrition, habitat requirements, and even common health issues to help you make an informed purchase.

Species Overview

  • Common Names: Budgie, Budgerigar, Parakeet, Shell Parrot, Canary Parrot, Zebra Parrot
  • Scientific Name: Melopsittacus undulatus
  • Adult Size: 7 inches
  • Life Span: 15 – 20 years

Origin and History

According to biologists, the Budgie is an Australian bird that goes back between 50,000 and 70,000 years.

The origin of its name is unknown, however some experts say it means “excellent bird” in its original tongue. It was initially described by George Shaw in 1804, and captive breeding began in the 1850s.

They are one of the most popular pets in the United States due to the fact that they are affordable, readily available, entertaining to watch, and very healthy, with most birds lasting close to 20 years.

Temperament

Budgies are highly sociable and lively birds who prefer human company. Their vocalizations are pleasant and musical, without unpleasant screeches or squawks, but they do not learn how to articulate words correctly.

They get along nicely with other birds, and their diminutive size necessitates only a little cage, making them ideal for small dwellings. Budgies have distinct personalities, and the most effective method for taming them is to acquire them young and begin teaching them immediately. Your Budgie may become obstinate and mischievous if it is not trained immediately.

Pros

  • Simple to locate
  • Inexpensive
  • Many color variants
  • Easy to teach

Cons

  • Can be obstinate

Speech & Vocalizations

Budgies converse often during the day. They are a talented vocalist who sings high-pitched tunes in the morning and when joyful. Moreover, you will hear occasional staccato chirps and lengthier contact sounds used for communication.

Generally, grinding their beaks before going to sleep indicates that they feel safe, however a “tssk tssk” sound might indicate anger or an issue with anything in their cage. Many male birds may learn multiple words.

Budgie Colors and Markings

Because to their extensive history of captive breeding, budgies are available in a vast array of hues. There are two color sequences: white and yellow. The white-based hues consist of white, blue, and grey, whereas the yellow hues are green, grey-green, and yellow.

These two categories yield 32 color mutations, each of which creates a distinct Budgie, and these 32 mutations can spawn hundreds of secondary mutations and hues.

Moreover, there are two sizes of parakeets: the Normal Budgie and the English Budgies, often known as Exhibition Budgies, which are almost twice as large as the regular form.

Caring for the Budgie

Minimum suggested Budgie cage dimensions are 12 inches wide, 18 inches deep, and 18 inches tall. Nonetheless, these birds like flight, therefore we advise purchasing the largest cage that your money and room will allow. Moreover, the minimum cage size must be doubled if a second bird is added.

If you must adhere to the minimal cage size, we recommend providing your bird with ample time outside the cage. In addition to various toys, a water bowl, a feeding bowl, a mineral block, and fine sand for the bottom of the cage, your bird will require the following: These components are readily available, and only the cage will be costly.

You will feed your Budgie a balanced diet of seeds, grains, and commercial pellets after the habitat has been established. A cuttlefish bone will aid in the maintenance of your pet’s beak.


Common Health Problems

The majority of your captive-bred indoor Budgie’s health issues arise from germs and parasites that it is less likely to meet. Dirty or poor-quality perches can occasionally cause the bird to develop bumblefoot.

Moreover, certain birds may acquire tumors that may or may not be malignant. If you see any lumps on your bird, we strongly advise that you take it to the veterinarian.


Diet and Nutrition

In addition to high-quality seed, your Budgie requires fresh fruits and vegetables. Excessive seed consumption might result in obesity, which can create serious health issues for your pet. Iodine toxicity can also result from consuming an excessive amount of seed.

Sprouts and vegetable greens can contribute to a well-balanced diet, but they must also consume a particular number of animal proteins or other seeds in order to obtain them. Eggs are an excellent source of protein, and many processed meals contain them.


Exercise

The greatest approach to exercise your Budgie is to provide it as much freedom as possible. Your bird will love exploring your house, which will provide it with plenty cerebral stimulation, and flying about will provide it with the necessary activity to maintain its health.

Where to Adopt or Buy a Budgie

Budgies are incredibly popular in the United States and can be found at virtually any pet store. Standard budgies typically cost between $20 and $30, but display birds can cost up to $100 or more. You may also be able to get them at your local animal shelter, where they are typically sold at a discount.

Conclusion

The Budgie is an ideal companion for compact dwellings and makes an excellent first pet for a young child. You may get them in a variety of hues, allowing you to choose the ideal one for your house. Budgies are readily available and quite affordable, especially in comparison to a cat or a dog.

We hope you found “Budgie (Parakeet): Complete Care Guide” by BestForPets (bestforpets.org) useful in answering your queries and entertaining.

Author Image

Dr. Deborah Fletcher

Deborah R. Fletcher, DVM, is a skilled veterinarian with more than 15 years of experience dealing with companion and exotic animals. She has experience caring for a variety of animals, including household cats and dogs, reptiles, birds of prey, and even primates. Dr. Fletcher is a valuable part of the BestForPets team, where she contributes to their aim of providing pets and their owners with the finest possible treatment and services.

Veterinarian (DVM) Dr. Deborah Fletcher

Comment

0.0
Rated 0 out of 5
0 out of 5 stars (based on 0 reviews)
Excellent0%
Very good0%
Average0%
Poor0%
Terrible0%

There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one.

Related articles