American Budgies
Budgies (commonly known as Parakeets) are one of the best loved pet birds.
These are one of the easiest parrots (yes, they are in the parrot family)
to keep and have good talking ability. They make good pets for children
who learn how to properly handle this delicate little bird.
Life Span: Budgerigars live an average of 5-8 years, but are reported to
occasionally live to 15+ if well cared for.
Size: small, weight 30-40 grams
General requirements & Care: Known to be quite animated and fun loving,
they enjoy toys, bells, etc., and require at cage at least 14"x18"x18"
large, if not larger, with a bar width of no more than 1/2".
Vitamin
A is important for Budgies and since seed mixes are low in vitamin A, budgies
should be given fresh foods to supplement. They enjoy green leafy veggies
and will sometimes bathe in the leaves. They also should be offered grated
carrots, broccoli, apples, and various other fruits and vegetables that
are safe for pet birds. To learn much more, there are many links on the
web about Budgies that you can search.
English
Budgies
These are more calm in nature compare to the American Budgie. The nature
is sweet and even. They make great pets for a family and are very animated.
They are not usually seen in pet stores as much as the American Budgie
and cost a little more as well. They have been known to be called "Show
Budgies".
Life Span: 8-15 years with proper care.
Size: 6"-8", about 2 times the size of the American Budgie
General requirements & Care: Diet is also the same as above. However,
they should be housed in a larger cage, at least 16" x 16" x
24" with bar width of 1/2".
American
Budgie
English
Budgies
Bourke Parakeets
This is a gentle little bird with a sweet disposition and quiet nature.
They make a great pet for the beginner or aviary bird, because they are
usually non-agressive toward Cockatiels, and other small birds. They can
also be beautifully colored (blues, pinks, vibrant violet-blue).
Life Span: 8-15 years
Size: about 7.5", 40-50 grams
General requirements & Care: Bourke's Parakeets should have a fairly
large cage, lengthwise, to allow space for flying. A cage 24"x24"x30"
inches high is recommended, though a larger cage would always be appreciated.
Length is more important than height in choosing a cage for them and bar
spacing of no more than half an inch is required.
Diet
should include fresh foods same as above bird species.
Rosey
Bourke
Pacific
Parrotlets
These are a large parrot in a extremely small body! They are actually a
cousin to the Amazon Parrot and have a strong personality. They are playful
and if handled daily, can be very sweet. They need many toys to keep them
stimulated because they have an active, curious mind. Due their size, caution
should be taken when the bird is out of its cage.
Life Span: 10-25 years
Size: 4-6"
General requirements & Care: recommended cage size - 18x18x24",
with 3/8" bar spacing. Lot's of toys including chew toys. They are
active and enjoy out-of-the-cage time. Best kept as a single bird due to
territorialism.
Diet
should include fresh foods same as above bird species.
