Budgies
All you need to know about your feathered friend.
Budgies can live for 15 – 25 years and will grow to approximately 15cm tall.
Budgies love to be stroked, held and want to interact with their owners as much as possible. They require at least 30 minutes or more of daily interaction. They are smart and easily trained. These birds should be taught basic commands such as “step up” onto your hand and “step down” when putting them back into their cage. This will ensure easier handling.
Their friendly, loving personalities make Budgies the most popular companion bird.
BUT please remember that all pets may bite or scratch, and may transmit disease. Keep your pet’s home clean and wash your hands before and after handling your pet or cleaning his home.
Feeding your Budgie
Feed Budgies 1-2 teaspoons per day of a pellet or seed-based Budgie diet. Also, Budgies only eat off the top layer of the food dish, so if feeding seeds, be sure to check the food daily and remove empty seed hulls. About 5-10% of a Budgie’s diet should be bite-sized fruits and veggies like apples, grapes, sweet potatoes, broccoli, spinach and carrots. Offer every 2-3 days. Also be sure to provide a cuttlefish bone in your Budgie’s cage at all times.
Budgies should always have access to clean, fresh water in a bottle or bowl.
Signs of a healthy budgie are:
- Clean, smooth feathers
- Eats throughout the day
- Normal droppings that are not runny for more than a couple of days
- A curious and active disposition
- Things to watch for (If you notice any of the signs described below, consult your Veterinarian):
- Decreased appetite; weight loss
- Decreased activity and grooming behaviour
- Change in droppings in excess of two days
- Sitting at the bottom of cage
- Discharge from nose or mouth; sneezing
- Feathers fluffed for prolonged periods of time
Your Budgie’s cage must be large enough for them to comfortably stretch her wings, climb and play with their toys. The bigger the cage the better. Minimum cage size is 14″W x 16″L x 16″H. Budgies are very social so they prefer to be kept in pairs or more. Perches in the cage should be at different heights. Cages should be placed away from drafts, smoke & strong odours.
Give your Budgie at least 2-3 toys to keep them busy. But, not too many. They should be able to move about freely without bumping into any in the cage. Rotate toys often to keep them interested.