They’re small, they’re cute, and they’re full of personality—that’s right, we’re talking about budgies, also known as budgerigars or parakeets. These colorful little birds have become a popular choice for pet owners, partly due to their availability and affordability and partly due to how ridiculously adorable they are.
But before you rush off to the nearest pet store to bring home your new budgie companion, there are a few things you should know about these lively little birds. While small, they require a lot of care and attention, just like any other pet.
Adopt, Don’t Shop
Image Credit: Deposit Photos.It’s a lot easier to drive to your local pet store, walk in, and take home a budgie with no questions asked than to seek out a local rescue or breeder and go through the adoption process.
However, most pet store birds come from breeding facilities known as “bird mills,” where they often stay in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions. By adopting a budgie instead, you can give a home to a bird in need and ensure your new feathered friend comes from a responsible breeder or rescue organization.
The More, the Merrier
Image Credit: Deposit Photos.Budgies are social creatures. They live in flocks in the wild, so you should have more than one budgie if possible. Being in pairs or small groups can provide them with companionship and stimulation, which can prevent boredom and negative behaviors, such as excessive screaming or feather plucking.
You Need a Big Cage!
Image Credit: Deposit Photos.Budgies need room to stretch their wings, climb around, and play with toys. The minimum recommended cage size for two budgies is 30 inches long by 18 inches wide by 18 inches tall. But the bigger the cage, the better.
Instead of asking yourself, “What’s the minimum cage size I need for my budgies,” ask, “What’s the biggest cage I can afford and accommodate in my home?” It’s smarter (and cheaper) to splurge on a big cage to start rather than having to upgrade later on.
They Eat More Than Just Seed
Image Credit: Deposit Photos.Budgies have unique dietary needs, and seed alone isn’t enough for them! Seed-only diets are often high in fat and low in essential vitamins and minerals. Your budgies’ diet should consist of seeds, high-quality pellets, fresh fruits and vegetables, and safe table foods like cooked eggs, whole-grain pasta, and unsalted nuts. Providing a varied diet will ensure your budgies get all the nutrients they need to stay healthy.
They Have Very Sensitive Respiratory Systems
If you plan on having budgies in your home, you’ll need to ditch some household items like non-stick cookware, chemical cleaners, aerosol sprays, and scented candles—just to name a few.
These products can release fumes and particles that are highly toxic to budgies. Even short exposure to these can cause respiratory distress and, in some cases, sudden death. Replace your cookware with stainless steel or cast iron, use natural cleaning products, and try boiling cinnamon sticks if you want your home to smell nice.
These are some of the many things you need to know before adopting a budgie. Other things to consider include their lifespan (they can live into their late teens!), the importance of regular veterinary care, and how noisy they can be.
While budgies aren’t the low-maintenance pets some people may think they are, they can bring endless joy and entertainment to your home. If you want a silly, charming, and social pet that will keep you on your toes, then a budgie could be the perfect addition to your family.
