Parakeet A.k.a. Budgerigar (Budgies) Care
Parakeet (Budgerigar)
(Melopsittacus undulatus)
Parakeets, also known as budgerigars or "budgies," are small, active parrots native to the grasslands and open scrub of Australia. These birds are well known for their vocalizations, playful demeanor, and beautiful feather colors ranging from green and yellow to blues and whites. At full size, parakeets average around 7 inches in length and are lightweight, making them easy to handle. Their friendly nature and ease of care have made them one of the most popular pet birds in the world.
Lifespan:
7–10 years in captivity with proper care.
Sexing:
Males typically have a blue cere (the fleshy part above the beak), while females usually have a brown or tan cere. However, color can vary slightly with age and mutations.
Enclosure:
Minimum Size: 24” L x 18” W x 24” H
Horizontal space is essential for flight and exercise. Include multiple perches of different diameters and textures, swings, and hanging toys to stimulate natural behaviors.
Rotate toys and rearrange perches frequently to prevent boredom and encourage exploration.
Bedding/ Liners:
Line the cage bottom with newspaper or paper towels and change daily. Clean perches, bowls, and cage surfaces weekly to prevent bacteria buildup.
Lighting & Temperature:
Maintain a 12-hour light/dark cycle using natural daylight or a full-spectrum avian UVB light. UVB exposure supports healthy bones, vibrant feathers, and normal behavior.
Keep the enclosure between 65–80°F, away from drafts and air vents.
Humidity:
Moderate household humidity (40–60%) is ideal. Provide shallow dishes for bathing or mist the bird gently several times per week.
Food:
Feed a high-quality pellet formulated for parakeets, supplemented with fresh vegetables (leafy greens, carrots, broccoli) and occasional fruits.
Seeds can be offered in small amounts as treats or during training.
Always provide fresh, clean water.
Socialization:
Parakeets are highly social and thrive with daily interaction. Talk to them, offer gentle handling, and provide out-of-cage time in a bird-safe room.
Bonded pairs often do well together if kept from a young age.
Provide a variety of foraging toys and enrichment to prevent boredom
Friendly, interactive, and full of personality, parakeets are a fantastic choice for both beginner and experienced bird owners. Their manageable size and lively behavior make them endlessly entertaining and rewarding companions.