CHOOSING A BUDGERIGAR
General information
The budgerigar (Melopsittacus undulates), sometimes referred to as a parakeet
or more commonly a budgie, is the most popular pet bird worldwide. This beautiful,
small bird originates from the drier regions of Australia. Escaped budgies are
currently establishing themselves as an introduced population in Florida, USA
Their natural habitat is dry open plains, woods bordering waterways and sparsely
wooded grasslands.
Budgies are generally very social, gentle and affectionate in nature. These
loving companions interact well with most members of the family. Budgies are
inquisitive, active, free spirits who enjoy flying, playing and chewing. Nontoxic
pet-safe toys should be provided for your budgie's entertainment. Although their
voice is not as clear as some of the larger parrots, budgies have the capacity
to develop extensive vocabularies. Talking or mimicking requires some effort
and training. Males seem to talk better than females although both are capable.
One endearing trait of a budgie is its cheerful whistling and chatter. Budgies
can be finger trained and some even enjoy head scratches and petting.
Purchasing a Budgerigar
Budgies may be purchased from a pet shop or, better, a reputable breeder. When
selecting a Budgie, try to choose a young bird as it may be easier to tame and
train. Older, wild, colony or parent raised birds may prove difficult to tame.
Hand raised babies often make better pets since they have been completely socialized
with humans. Young birds are easier to tame and adapt readily to new environments
and situations. Your new bird should be exposed early to different events (young
and old people, males and females, other pets, car trips, visits to the vet,
etc.) to help promote a calm, well adjusted pet. The lively, alert bird that
is not easily frightened is more likely a healthy bird. After purchasing your
new bird, have it examined by your veterinary surgeon.
Veterinary care
Budgies require regular, routine veterinary health checkups. Your vet can perform
a physical examination, grooming (beak, nail or feather trim) and laboratory
tests as needed. During these semiannual checkups., health, nutritional and
maintenance issues can be identified and addressed. Veterinary checkups. help
prevent disease and will aid in the maintenance of a long lasting, healthy relationship
between you and your bird.
Color
Mature
- the wild bird is basically green with yellow on the face. Black and yellow
barring is found on the wings and head, black spots across the throat
- domestic varieties show infinite combinations and shades of green, yellow,
blue, mauve, slate and white
- eye (iris) is white
- legs gray/blue with a reptilian pattern
Immature
- duller color, black barring on forehead, throat spots may be absent
- iris dark gray
Sexing
Mature
- feathering between sexes is similar
- the male's cere (featherless area around the nostrils) is rich blue in
color
- the female's cere is pale blue, pinky blue or brown and sometimes crusty
in the breeding female
- cere color may not identify the sexes 100% and may vary with domestic color
variations
Immature
Weight - average 1.0 - 1.2 ounces (30 - 35 grams), large varieties 1.2
- 1.6 ounces (35 - 45 grams)
Size - average 7 - 7.5 inches (18 - 19 cm) in length
Life span - 6 - 10 years (maximum 18 years)
Diet - consult your vet or see the information page here
Breeding - sexual maturity 6 months old - gregarious birds that breed
best if several pairs are kept within sight and sound of each other - naturally
breeding in the spring but most will easily breed any time of year
Brood size - 3 - 6 white eggs will hatch in 18 days on average, young
leave the nest in 4 -5 weeks
Cage - minimum 1 ft x 1 ft x 2 ft (30 cm x 30 cm x 60 cm)
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