What do budgies need?

• Companionship - to be with other budgies and to have human company.
• A balanced diet of bird food, seed shaken through a fine sieve to get rid of dust, and regular treats like fresh washed lettuce, carrots, apple and millet.
• A constant supply of fresh, clean water.
• A large aviary or cage, safe from predators and with sleeping areas or nesting boxes to give protection from cold, wind and direct sunlight.
• Daily exercise. There must be plenty of space for flying in the aviary, or the budgie/s have to be let out of the cage indoors to fly.
• Lots of wooden perches for sleeping on. Budgies like to perch high up and all at the same level,
• Branches, toys and vegetation in the aviary to create an interesting environment.
• Clean water for bathing.
• Grit to help digestion.
• A cuttlefish bone to peck at.
• A mineral block yo peck at.
• The aviary / Cage to be cleaned regularly.
• To be taken to a vet if they are ill or injured.
• To be looked after when you are on holiday.

Life span
Budgies live for an average of 4-8 years but if cared for properly and well can live for 10-13 years and even known to live for 18 or so years.

Behaviour
In the wild, budgies live in large groups so it is normal to have more than one bird. Get a pair or a group of male or female birds at the same time to avoid jealousy. Budgies should not be kept in the same aviary as canaries, as they are smaller and may be bullied. All captive birds need a stimulating environment and space to fly around.

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