Things to Know Before Getting a Parakeet
Thinking About Getting a Parakeet? Here’s What You Should Know 🐦
So, you're thinking about getting a parakeet? Great choice! These small, colorful birds are full of personality, super social, and can make amazing little companions. Whether you're a first-time bird owner or just looking to add a new feathered friend to your family, here’s everything you need to know before bringing a parakeet home.
What Exactly Is a Parakeet?
“Parakeet” usually refers to budgerigars, or “budgies” for short. These adorable little birds come from Australia, but they’ve been bred as pets all over the world. In the wild, they’re green and yellow, but pet budgies come in tons of colors—blue, white, yellow, even purple!
They’re small (usually about 7 inches long), easy to handle, and full of energy. Think of them as tiny parrots with big personalities.
Why Parakeets Make Awesome Pets
They’re Friendly: Parakeets love attention and can bond closely with their humans. Many will sit on your finger, chirp when they see you, and even learn to talk a little!
They’re Smart: Budgies can learn tricks, mimic sounds, and figure out how to solve simple puzzles. You’ll be surprised how clever they are.
They Don’t Break the Bank: Compared to other pets, parakeets are pretty affordable. Their food, toys, and cages won’t cost a fortune.
They’re Easy to Keep (Compared to Bigger Birds): They don’t need a massive cage or fancy equipment. Just a safe, comfy space and daily interaction.
What to Know Before You Bring One Home
Even though parakeets are small, they still need love, time, and care. Here are some things to think about:
🕊️ They’re Very Social
Parakeets are flock animals, which means they hate being lonely. If you’re only getting one, plan to spend time with it every day. If you're busy or away a lot, getting a pair might be a better choice.
⏳ They Live for Years
With good care, a parakeet can live 7 to 15 years! So this isn’t just a weekend whim—it’s a long-term commitment.
🔊 They Like to Talk
Budgies aren’t super loud, but they do chirp, chatter, and sometimes mimic sounds. It’s usually cute, but not great if you need total silence 24/7.
🏡 They Need Space and Toys
Even though they’re small, they need a roomy cage (minimum 18x18x24 inches), lots of toys, perches, and things to chew on. Switch out toys now and then so they don’t get bored.
🥦 They Need a Balanced Diet
Parakeets can’t live on seeds alone! They need a mix of:
High-quality pellets
Fresh veggies (like broccoli, carrots, spinach)
Occasional fruit (like apple slices—no seeds!)
Clean water daily
And never feed them chocolate, avocado, or anything with caffeine—those can be toxic.
Tips for New Parakeet Owners
Start with a young bird if you want to tame it easily.
Be patient. It can take a few weeks for your budgie to warm up to you.
Talk to them! They love sound, and hearing your voice helps build trust.
Keep their cage clean—about once a week for deep cleaning.
Take them to a bird vet once or twice a year or if something seems off (fluffed-up feathers, staying still, not eating, etc.).
Should You Get One or Two?
If you’re home a lot and want to bond closely with your bird, one parakeet is great. But if you're busy or gone during the day, two parakeets can keep each other company. Just know that two birds might bond more with each other than with you—but that’s okay! You’ll still be part of the flock.
Parakeets are small birds with big hearts. They’re fun, feisty, curious, and full of life. With just a little daily care, attention, and love, they’ll reward you with cheerful chirps, funny antics, and maybe even a few words or phrases.
So if you're ready for a playful, feathered friend who brightens up your home—go ahead and welcome a parakeet into your life. You won’t regret it.
