Blue Parakeet

Description:Commonly called "parakeets" or "budgies" for short, budgerigars are a species of bird native to Australia. In a surprise to many people, budgies are actually very small parrots! Just like their larger cousins, these birds are full of personality. They tend to be affectionate, build relationships with their owners, and can learn to mimic human speech and other sounds!

Species: Blue Parakeet

Normal Pet Size at Maturity: Parakeets grow up to 7" (18 cm) from head to end of tail.

Average Lifespan: On average, parakeets live for 7 to 10 years.

Basic Diet: For detailed feeding information, check out the care & feeding section of the Parakeet care guide! Parakeets main source of nutrients is provided from a pellet-seed blend. Remove old food left in the dish, and replace with new fresh pellets daily. Keep your Parakeets diet bowl three-quarters full. Fresh fruits, vegetables, and grains every other day are a good way to add variation to your Parakeets diet. To keep your Parakeet in the best shape, refrain from feeding your bird honey sticks, millet spray, and other treats more than twice a month. Never feed your bird chocolate, sugar, fried foods, avocado, or human junk food. These foods can make your bird very sick.

Habitat Necessities: For full details, please visit our setting up you Parakeet habitat section of the Parakeet care guide!

• Keep the enclosure at or below eye level


• Place away from: Kitchens and cooking fumes (especially non-stick cookware)
  Drafts, strong odors, or direct sunlight


• Cover the enclosure at night to help your bird feel secure


• Provide at least three toys and rotate them regularly


• Include puzzles, chewable toys, and foraging items to
  encourage natural behavior


• Add a T-stand or indoor playpen for out-of-cage time


• Use a cage liner and replace as needed to keep the enclosure
  clean


• Offer a birdbath or shallow dish for splashing


• Mist gently with warm water 2-3 times a week

Does this Pet Need a Roommate? Parakeets are social animals and thrive living in same-gender pairs and groups.

Minimum Enclosure Size: The minimum enclosure size is 18"x18"x24", but bigger is always better, especially for multiple birds.

Safety Tips for You and Your Pet: It is recommended to closely monitor any new pet for 30 days in their own enclosure to observe signs of illness, prevent the spread of potential diseases, and to limit stress while your pet acclimates to their new home. All new pets should be seen by a veterinarian within 14 days of purchase to establish care and discuss a health and wellness plan. All animals can potentially carry viral, bacterial, fungal, and parasitic diseases contagious to humans. Thoroughly wash your hands with warm, soapy water before and after contact with any pet or its habitat. Adults should assist children with hand washing after contact with a pet or its enclosure. Use caution when handling pets, and remember they may bite or scratch, especially when stressed.

Vet Assured: Pets purchased at PetSmart are part of our exclusive Vet Assured program, designed by PetSmart veterinarians to help improve the health and well-being of our pets. Our vendors meet a high standard in caring for pets and screening them for common illnesses, including Zoonotic diseases. This program also includes specific standards for in-store pet care.

When to Contact a Veterinarian: In addition to regularly scheduled appointments, contact your avian veterinarian if you notice the following signs: long periods sitting at the bottom of the enclosure decreased appetite or weight loss less activity and grooming feathers fluffed for long periods of time sneezing; discharge from eyes, nose or mouth runny droppings for more than two days constantly plucking feathers or feathers are falling out beak over gown⁄ not closing normally Go to
"find a vet" on AAV.org for help finding an avian veterinarian in your area.

The PetSmart Promise: If your pet becomes ill during the initial 14-day period, or if you're not satisfied for any reason, PetSmart will gladly replace the pet or refund the purchase price.