Budgerigar (Budgie)

Breed: Budgerigar (Budgie)
Scientific name: Melopsittacus undulatus
Place of Origin: Australia
Classification: Parakeet
Average Price: R150 - R300

Size Category: small
Avg. Height: 18 cm.
Avg. Weight: 0.03 to 0.04 Kg.
Avg. Lifespan: 5 to 15 years.

Colours:
Green/yellow (wild type), blue/white, and many other mutations

Covering:
feathers

Vocalisation level:
moderate

Temprament:
Social, cheerful, and playful. Can learn to talk and mimic sounds with surprising clarity.

Trainability:
moderate

Diet type: herbivore
Feeding frequency: Constant access to food.

Foods to avoid:
Avocado, chocolate, caffeine.

Health Concerns:
Prone to tumors, liver issues (often diet-related), and mites.

Recommended Supplements:
Cuttlebone and mineral block are essential.

Grooming:
Low maintenance, provide bathing opportunities.

Exercise:
Needs a large cage for their size and time outside to fly in a safe, supervised room.

Handling:
Easy to handle and tame, especially when acquired young.
Ideal Location:
Kept indoors nationwide. Require protection from temperature extremes.

Space Requirements:
A wide cage is better than a tall one to allow for horizontal flight.

Climate Suitability: variable

Temperature Range: Controlled indoor (18-25°C)

Humidity Range: Adaptable