Everything You Need To Know About Budgerigars

Looking for a pet that's as colorful as you are? Budgerigars have you covered!

Originating from Australia, budgerigars are also known as parakeets or budgies. They are one of the smallest breeds of parrots that grow to approximately seven inches in length and weigh between 1.1 and 1.4 ounces.

Budgerigars are known for their outgoing, playful personalities. They love socializing with humans and are endlessly curious, always looking for new areas to explore. Not only do they enjoy the company of their owners, budgerigars have a strong flock mentality. This means that they are happiest when they can be around other budgerigars. Due to this, it is suggested that they are kept in groups of two or more.

Male budgerigars, in particular, are known for their uncanny ability to mimic human speech. They are quick learners, able to pick up simple words or phrases with ease. If you want to teach your budgerigar to speak, the best way to do it is by talking to them on a regular basis.

Due to their size and pleasant nature, budgerigars are one of the most popular breeds of birds to keep as pets. In fact, they are the third most popular pet in the world after cats and dogs! If you are a first-time bird owner or are looking for the perfect pet for children, the budgerigar is the bird for you.

Some other fun facts about this wonderful pet bird? Here's what you need to know about the pet budgie:

• Life span? They tend to have a shorter lifespan than some other parrot species, generally living between 6 and 12 years.
• They need a varied diet that includes formulated pellets, fresh vegetables, and fruits, with grass seeds provided as only an occasional treat.
• What health issues need to be on your radar? Due to extensive inbreeding in the pet trade, budgies can be prone to certain tumors and cancers.
• As far as color mutations, they come in hundreds of brilliant shades of greens and yellows (even dark blue).
• They are typically found in warm regions and coastal areas, from India to Australia and tropical America.
• A group of budgerigars is called a chatter or flock.
• If you want to easily identify your budgie's sex, look at their cere, which is located directly above the beak. If the bird's cere is royal blue during breeding season, it's most likely an adult male budgie.
• The birds are normally found in small flocks but can form very large flocks under favorable conditions.
• Your budgies do not need any materials, as they do not build nests, but the nest box should contain a tray in which the bird can lay her eggs.

There are actually two types of budgies commonly seen in aviculture, Australian (often called American parakeets) and English budgies.

Do you have a budgie? Show us on the Wide Open Pets Facebook page!

READ MORE: Winged Addition: Best Bird Breeds for First-Time Owners