Quick Facts
Basic Information
- Scientific Name: Melopsittacus undulatus
- Average Lifespan: 5-8 years (up to 15 years with excellent care)
- Size: 18-20 cm (7-8 inches)
- Weight: 30-40 grams
- Colors: Green (wild type), Blue, Yellow, White, and various mutations
Care Requirements
- Cage Size: Minimum 45x45x60cm for one bird
- Temperature Range: 18-24°C (64-75°F)
- Diet: Seed mix, pellets, fresh vegetables, and fruits
- Social Needs: Highly social, best kept in pairs
Costs
- Purchase Price: NZ$30-100
- Monthly Care: NZ$20-30
- Initial Setup: NZ$200-400
Image Gallery
Detailed Information
Characteristics & Personality
Budgerigars are intelligent, playful, and social birds that make excellent companions. They are known for their cheerful disposition and ability to mimic human speech.
Positive Traits
- Excellent talkers and mimics
- Playful and entertaining
- Relatively easy to care for
- Good for beginners
Challenges
- Can be messy eaters
- Require daily social interaction
- Need regular cage cleaning
Care Guide
Housing Requirements
Provide a spacious cage with horizontal bars for climbing. Include perches of varying diameters, toys, and a cuttlebone. Place the cage in a well-lit area away from drafts and direct sunlight.
Diet & Nutrition
A balanced diet includes: high-quality seed mix (30%), pellets (40%), fresh vegetables (20%), and fruits (10%). Always provide fresh water daily.
Health & Wellness
Common health issues include respiratory infections, scaly face mites, and obesity. Regular veterinary check-ups and maintaining a clean environment are essential.
Training & Intelligence
Budgerigars are highly intelligent and can learn various tricks and words. They are excellent mimics and can develop extensive vocabularies.
Training Difficulty
Moderate - They are quick learners but require consistent training sessions. Start with basic commands and gradually progress to more complex tricks.
Speech & Mimicry
Excellent - They can learn hundreds of words and phrases. Males are generally better talkers than females.
Buying Guide
Best Time to Buy
Spring and summer are ideal times to purchase a budgie, as they are more active and healthy during these seasons.
Where to Buy in Christchurch
- Christchurch Bird Club members (recommended)
- Reputable pet stores in Christchurch
- Registered breeders
What to Look For
- Clear, bright eyes
- Clean, smooth feathers
- Active and alert behavior
- Clean vent area
- Good body condition
Is This Bird Right For You?
Ideal Owner Profile
Budgerigars are perfect for first-time bird owners, families with children, and people who can dedicate time to social interaction and training.
Lifestyle Considerations
- Daily interaction time (minimum 1-2 hours)
- Regular cleaning schedule
- Quiet environment for sleep
- Space for a proper-sized cage