As evidenced by their continued popularity as pets, parakeets can be wonderful, rewarding companions. Originating from Australia, the true name for parakeet is budgerigar or as is more typically seen, budgie. In their native habitat, budgies travel in flocks of thousands of birds or more. This strong flocking and social instinct is a part of what makes these birds such great pets.
Before bringing a budgie into your home, you may first want to consider its future social environment. A budgie kept alone will need a lot of attention and bonding time in order to be happy. If you do not have much time to spend with your new budgie, you may want to consider purchasing two instead of one.
Another important consideration is the moderate noise level produced by a happy budgie. As a result of their need for socialization, budgies are in constant communication with other members of their flock throughout the day, whether that flock is you or another bird will make small difference. You can expect a general increase in noise around sunrise and sunset each day. If you are considering purchasing more than one budgie, keep in mind that the noise level will grow with each additional bird. The more budgies, the more noise. In an apartment setting, the noise of two budgies may be acceptable to your neighbors, but more than that may be too much.
Contrary to traditional beliefs, budgies cannot survive on seeds alone. Although seeds are appropriate as a base food, it is necessary to supplement their diet with fruits, vegetables and grains. Millet is also a favorite with budgies, and is easy to find almost any place bird supplies are sold, and it is very inexpensive. Providing a healthy diet is not difficult, but it will take a little extra effort on your part.
In addition to the cost of the budgie, you will also need to consider the cost of an appropriate cage, along with the cost of providing adequate toys. Plan to purchase at least several toys in order to keep your budgie from boredom. Many toys are both inexpensive and entertaining for any budgie. Several perches of various materials and sizes will also be necessary in order to keep your budgie from developing arthritis or sores. If you are adopting more than one budgie, consider purchasing duplicates of some items to keep the fights over favored perches/toys/treats to a minimum.
Lastly, remember that the cage will need to be cleaned out at least once a week, including all food and water dishes. The perches must be wiped down and any debris removed. The bottom grate of the cage will need to be wiped clean and the papers in the tray replaced. Without proper cleaning, budgies can quickly develop a serious, possibly fatal, infection.
If you feel unable or unwilling to provide for the needs of these wonderful birds, you may want to reconsider before bringing one into your home. Budgies are fun and rewarding pets that can be the source of hours of enjoyment for the entire family.
