The Budgerigar (Melopsittacus undulatus), often called a budgie or parakeet, is originally from Australia and is undoubtedly the most widespread and beloved pet bird worldwide. Small, affordable, intelligent, and with a cheerful disposition, it has everything to please. Behind its constant chirping lies a social animal that can form very strong bonds with its owner. This complete guide will help you learn everything about this feathered marvel.
While the wild form is green, decades of selective breeding have produced an incredible palette of colors (mutations).
You can find blue, yellow (lutino), white (albino), violet, grey, and many other combinations of budgies. The black "undulated" or scalloped markings on its head and wings gave it its name and are present in most varieties.
Distinguishing the sex of an adult budgie is simple: just look at the **cere**, the fleshy part right above the beak.
The budgie isn't a great singer in a melodic sense, but it is very talkative! Its repertoire consists of a variety of chirps, whistles, and small squawks. A soft, continuous song is often a sign of a happy, content bird. Some individuals, especially males, are capable of mimicking words and sounds from their environment.
The budgerigar is a very social and gregarious bird. In the wild, it lives in huge flocks. This is why it is often recommended to get at least two if you are not home much. If kept alone, a budgie will require a lot of attention and interaction to avoid loneliness and boredom. It's a very intelligent bird, capable of learning tricks and solving small problems.
This is a major dilemma for many prospective bird owners. Both are excellent pets but have different personalities.
| Feature | Budgerigar (Budgie) | Cockatiel |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Small (approx. 7 inches) | Medium (approx. 12 inches including crest) |
| Noise Level | Constant chattering and chirping, but not very loud | Melodious whistling, but can produce loud contact calls |
| Temperament | Energetic, curious, very active | Calmer, cuddly, often very attached to its human |
| Talking Ability | Good, can learn a large vocabulary | Limited, mainly mimics whistles and melodies |
Provide the largest cage possible, wider than it is tall, to allow for short flights. The diet should be varied: a high-quality seed mix, formulated pellets, and fresh fruits and vegetables (like carrots, broccoli, apples) given regularly.
The price of a budgie is very affordable, which contributes to its popularity.
With proper care, a suitable diet, and a stimulating environment, a budgerigar can live between 8 and 15 years.
Yes, some budgies are remarkable talkers and can acquire a vocabulary of dozens, or even hundreds, of words. Males are generally better talkers than females.
It is "chatty" but not "loud" like a large parrot. Its song is a rather pleasant background noise and is rarely disturbing to neighbors.