Budgerigar
Melopsittacus undulatus
Common questions
How much does a Budgerigar cost?
Most Budgerigars listed on BirdBreeders.com in the last twelve months were priced between $60 and $175, with a midpoint around $100. That is drawn from 6 real listings by breeders on this site over that period, not an estimate. Price varies with age, hand-feeding, DNA sexing and the breeder's location.
How long do Budgerigars live?
Budgerigars typically live 7-12 years in good conditions. That is a long commitment for any household, and worth planning for before buying rather than after.
How loud are Budgerigars?
Fairly quiet. Noise is the most common reason parrots are rehomed, so it is worth being honest with yourself about your home, your neighbours and the hours you keep before choosing a species.
Do Budgerigars talk?
Good talker. No individual bird can be promised to speak, whatever the species is known for, so buy for the company rather than the conversation.
How big do Budgerigars get?
An adult is roughly 6.5-7.5 in from head to tail, weighing around 30-40 g.
What size cage does a Budgerigar need?
A minimum of 24in x 18in x 18in, and wider matters more than taller - birds fly across rather than up. Bar spacing should be 1/2 in or less. Treat any minimum as a floor rather than a target.
What do Budgerigars eat?
A pelleted base with fresh greens and vegetables. Budgies are the hardest birds of all to convert off seed, so starting a young one properly is far easier than changing an older one.
Are Budgerigars good for a first-time owner?
Suits a first bird. Ask any breeder directly what they think of the match - a breeder who talks you out of a species is worth more than one who does not.
Do Budgerigars produce a lot of dust?
Low. It matters more than most people expect for anyone with asthma, and it is worth raising with a doctor before buying rather than afterwards.
Where do Budgerigars come from?
The arid interior of Australia. Birds offered here are captive bred.