Budgerigar (Budgies)

The budgerigar, also known as the common parakeet, shell parakeet or budgie, is a small, long-tailed, seed-eating parrot. Budgies are the only species in the genus Melopsittacus. 

Budgies are a great choice for beginning bird parents. They are adaptable to a wide range of care conditions, not too demanding in their day-to-day care, and can be trained to be handled with minimal stress. Budgies prefer a habitat with limited noise and traffic but where they can see people doing their activities, such as a living room. Their cage should be positioned away from direct sunlight and drafty doors and windows.

Budgies are small and relatively docile pets. They can be trained using food rewards and consistent attention to establish trust. Like most pet birds, budgies defend themselves by biting at perceived threats. The budgie bite is little more than a painful annoyance. They are most likely to bite people who approach too closely, but generally cause limited injury.

An ideal enclosure for an individual budgie is 18x18x18 inches. When housing two budgies together, the enclosure should measure 30x18x18 inches. For more than two budgies, the enclosure should measure 32x18x20 inches. The bars should be spaced ½-inch apart or smaller.

The bottom of the cage should be lined with paper for daily cleaning, and droppings should be monitored for signs of illness. Several different types of bedding can be used that are inexpensive and easily accessible including: Newspaper, Paper towel, Brown Paper bags and Butcher paper.Perches should be offered in an assortment of sizes, heights, textures, and materials (i.e., rope). This will ensure that the budgie can exercise their feet, which may help prevent sores. Perches should be a minimum of 4 inches long and 3/8 inch in diameter.

A high-quality pelleted diet offers balanced nutrition and should make up 60-70% of a budgie’s dietTreats, vegetables, and fruits should represent about 30-40% of your budgie’s diet in total, with no more than 10% of the diet given as treats. Treats include fortified seed and millet sprays. Fruits may include berries, melons, and papaya, while budgies like vegetables such as broccoli, sweet potatoes, pea pods, and bell peppersMineral blocks or cuttle bones should be provided as a source of calcium and trace minerals, which are necessary for strong and healthy bones, beaks, nails, and feathers.