https://www.chewy.com/education/bird/parakeet/budgie-budgerigar
*Parakeets, also known as budgies, are gentle companions with bright energy. The Parakeet Education Hub explores the basics of care, including socialization, cage size, diet, and training - making it easy to support a healthy, happy bird.
Chewy editorial team presents a complete guide to caring for your new pet parakeet, covering everything from habitat and diet to enrichment and health, so you and your budgie can enjoy a happy, healthy life together.
Parakeets, known as budgies, are small, colorful birds that typically live 10 to 12 years with proper care. Measuring about 7 inches long, they thrive in spacious, clean cages lined with safe materials like newspaper or butcher paper, but never glossy magazine pages.
A single budgie needs a cage of at least 18x18x18 inches, while multiple birds require more room. To stay mentally and physically active, budgies should have a variety of toys, including chew toys, foraging items, mirrors, bells, and climbing ropes.
A high quality pellet diet should form the foundation of their nutrition, supplemented with fresh fruits and vegetables (about 30% of their diet) and limited treats. Always provide clean, filtered water for both drinking and bathing, and remember to keep dishes sanitized daily.
Proper handling and regular veterinary care are essential to your budgie’s well being.
Hand raised budgies are generally more comfortable being held, while those raised by bird parents may need gentler handling using a towel.
It is crucial to monitor their health through annual checkups with an avian vet and watch for signs of illness, such as abnormal droppings, feather loss, or breathing issues.
Toxic household hazards like non stick cookware fumes and certain foods - including chocolate, avocado, and onion - should be strictly avoided.
Before bringing your budgie home, make sure you have a checklist of essentials: a birdcage, bedding, UV lighting, food and water dishes, perches, appropriate food, and a variety of stimulating toys.
With the right setup and care, budgies make delightful companions full of charm and personality.
