Parakeet (Budgie) 101
Quick Facts
LIFESPAN: Approximately 7-10 years
SIZE: Up to 7” (18 cm) long
EXPERIENCE LEVEL: BEGINNER
Socialization & General Care
Parakeets require human interaction and like to be held. If you work all day, consider purchasing a pair of parakeets, as they will be able to keep each other company.Talking and whistling to your parakeet will provide the interaction and socialization it requires.New surroundings can be stressful for your parakeet. Allow 3-4 days for him to get adjusted to his surroundings.
DID YOU KNOW?
Budgies poop every 12 to 15 minutes!
Nutrition
Parakeets are herbivores and should be fed a fortified pellet-seed blend.Parakeets peel every seed and let the hull drop back into their dish. You will need to remove empty seed hulls daily out of their food dish.Fresh vegetables should be offered daily and any uneaten food should be removed before it spoils. Acceptable choices are dark leafy greens, zucchini and broccoli. Fresh fruit such as papaya, bananas and melon should be offered weekly.
Treats such as spray millet and packaged treats can be offered sparingly.Fresh water should be available at all times and food and water dishes should be cleaned daily.
Moulting
Moulting is a natural process when birds lose and replace their feathers.A nutritious diet is needed to promote the re-growth of lost feathers.Protect your parakeet from temperature fluctuations drafts and frightening experiences while moulting.
Health Issues to Watch For
Change in the consistency, frequency or colour of droppings.Ruffled feathers for prolonged periods.Decreased appetite and weight loss.
Sitting on bottom of cage for prolonged periods.Laboured breathing, sneezing, coughing and crusty beak or eyes.If you notice any of the symptoms above, seek veterinary care.
Fun Parakeet Facts
The Parakeet's country of origin is Australia.
Parakeets can learn to talk
Parakeets have two toes that face forwards and two toes that face backwards.
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