BUDGERIGARS

Types:

There are different types of parakeets, commonly known as budgerigars or budgies. These include Australian parakeets, sometimes referred to as “American,” and English budgies, which are the type seen in exhibitions and shows. Budgerigars, often called “parakeets,” are the most popular pet parrots. It’s essential to note that while a budgie is always a parakeet, not all parakeets are budgies. The term “parakeet” simply means a small parrot, and various birds in the parrot family, such as Bourke’s parakeets, green-cheeked parakeets, and orange-chinned parakeets, fall under this category.

Budgies as Pets:

Budgerigars, or budgies, are popular as pets due to their affordability and charming characteristics. Despite their relatively low cost, budgies can make excellent companions. They are cheerful, acrobatic, and amusing birds with a high level of activity and playfulness. While independent, budgies have distinct personalities and often enjoy spending time on their owner’s shoulder. Although not typically cuddly, some budgies may enjoy head scratches. Regular handling is crucial for maintaining their tameness, as insufficient interaction can lead to shyness and occasional nippiness. Budgies are known for their exceptional ability to mimic words and phrases, displaying intelligence and quick learning. Despite their small size, budgies have big personalities, being playful, mischievous, and easily tamed. However, caution is advised during out-of-cage playtime to prevent accidents, as their curiosity can lead them into trouble.

Sexing:

Determining the sex of a budgie can be challenging until after the first molt, usually around 4-6 months of age. In young budgies, the cere (the area above the beak) is beige or light pink. After the first molt, males’ ceres turn blue, while females’ ceres remain beige or tan. Vocalizations can also be an indicator, as males tend to be more vocal and sweet-sounding, while females may have a more lecturing tone. However, exceptions exist based on color mutations.

Caging:

Budgies should be housed in spacious cages with narrow bar spacing (maximum 5/8″) to prevent head entrapment. The cage should have horizontal bars to facilitate climbing, and a bottom grate helps prevent cage paper shredding. Adequate perches with different diameters, including natural branches, cotton rope perches, and cement perches, should be provided. Toys, such as swings, bells, beads, and objects to climb, are essential for keeping budgies amused. Cage placement in an area with social interaction opportunities is recommended.

Diet:

A balanced diet for budgies includes pellets, fresh vegetables, fruits, and some seeds. Calcium supplementation through cuttlebones, mineral blocks, and crushed eggshells is crucial. Grit should not be provided, as it is unnecessary for parakeets.

Wing Clipping:

Wing clipping is an option for keeping budgies tame and preventing escape. Trimming the long flight feathers is not painful and should be done by an experienced person or veterinarian.

Bathing:

Regular baths, either in a dish or through spraying with a mister, are essential for budgies. Providing 2-3 baths per week, preferably in the morning, helps keep them clean.

Health:

Budgies are prone to obesity-related issues, so a varied diet and exercise are important. Regular veterinary check-ups are necessary to address potential health issues. Avoiding drafts and ensuring proper care can prevent problems like scaly face due to mites.

Noise:

Budgies make distinctive sounds, and while they may occasionally produce low, repeated sounds when agitated, they are generally not noisy birds. They are suitable for individuals concerned about noise levels that may disturb neighbors.