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Description of the species
The budgerigar (Melopsittacus undulatus) is a small member of the family Psittaculidae and the only species in the genus Melopsittacus. Typical body length is 17-20 cm (show types up to 21-23 cm), wing 9.5-10.5 cm, tail 8-10 cm, mass 40-45 g. The wild-type plumage is grass green with a yellow facial mask and a dark “undulated” pattern on the nape and back. Cheeks show violet patches and three black throat spots on each side. The tail is long and stepped, making the bird appear larger.
Sex is read by the cere: young males violet, adult males bright blue, females bluish to brown. Forehead feathers of males fluoresce under UV light, an important courtship signal. The bill is strong and mobile with well developed palatine bones; the upper mandible is ligament-attached to the skull, making the bill a versatile tool for grasping and processing food and for climbing. Feet are zygodactylous (2 forward, 2 back) and highly prehensile.
Range and habitat
Native to Australia and adjacent islands. The species lives in flocks across semi-arid and steppe habitats with scattered trees, on grassy plains and ecotones. It nomadizes in search of water and grass seeds and can cover long distances with a fast, slightly arched flight. Nesting occurs mainly in the drier interior regions.
Life and behavior
Highly social - forms flocks from a few dozen to hundreds. Very active and “talkative”, using rich vocalizations for contact and alarm. Walks well on the ground and climbs deftly on branches and mesh, using the bill as a “third support”.
Breeding
In the wild they breed year round when food and water are available. Nesting is in tree cavities. The hen lays 4-12 white eggs directly on the cavity floor; incubation 17-20 days. The male feeds the hen. Chicks hatch blind and naked, open their eyes by about day 10 and fledge at around day 30, often staying in contact with parents for a while.
Home care
Provide a rectangular, spacious cage wide enough for short flights and for hanging upside down. Place at eye level, out of direct sun and drafts, away from heat sources. Include several perches of different diameters, a swing, safe toys and items to explore. With proper care average lifespan is 10-15 years, with a possible range of 8-20 years.
Diet and husbandry
Feed in the morning at a consistent time. Size the daily portion so it is eaten within 24 hours. Base diet on quality small-parrot seed mixes (millet, oats, some corn, sunflower and hemp within normal limits) or complete pellets as preferred. Add leafy greens, vegetables and fruits. Useful extras include sprouts and soft foods without salt: rice or oat porridge, a little low-fat cottage cheese, and a hard-boiled egg.
Mineral supplements are essential: cuttlebone or mineral block, clean charcoal, safe branches for bill wear. Water must be fresh at all times. Hygiene includes regular tray and accessory cleaning and periodic disinfection with a mild baking soda solution; during deep cleans the cage can be scalded with boiling water.
Historical note
Scientifically described in the early 19th century by British naturalists and introduced to Europe in the 1840s, budgerigars quickly became one of the most popular pet parrots and have been bred successfully in captivity ever since.
Buy a budgerigar: ordering and shipping
You can purchase budgerigars from our farm. Delivery across Ukraine. To check availability and delivery, contact via Viber, Telegram, or by phone 050-182-27-27.
Common questions
What age is best for a “talker”
Ideally 1.5-3 months old. Young birds tame faster and learn sounds more readily.
Can I keep a single budgie
Yes, if you provide daily interaction and enrichment. If that is not possible, consider a compatible pair.
Which foods are off limits
Salt and sweets, chocolate and cocoa, avocado, alcohol and coffee, fried or spicy foods, sugary dairy, and any moldy feed.
Do they need sunlight and UV
Indirect sunlight is beneficial. For indoor setups, use safe UV lamps as directed. UV enhances male feather fluorescence and courtship signals, but avoid uncontrolled direct exposure.