Budgerigar

The Budgerigar, also known as the Common Pet Parakeet, Shell Parakeet or by its nickname the Budgie, is native to Australia. It inhabits scrublands, open woodlands and grasslands. Under favourable conditions these birds form flocks of thousands of individuals. Since they eat seeds and therefore will predate on farm crops such as wheat they are considered by many farmers to be pests.

In the wild the Budgerigar is green and yellow. Captive breeding has produced individuals that are blue, white, yellow or grey.

Fun Facts!

  • Budgies are a favourite pet of bird lovers and can be taught how to talk.
  • Like most parrots, their feathers will fluoresce (glow) under ultraviolet light.
  • Budgies are the third most common pet in North America, right after cats and dogs.

Budgerigar @ Safari Niagara

  • A large number of these birds call Safari Niagara home. You can visit them in their summer home and get up close and personal by feeding them.

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Aves
Order: Psittaciformes
Family: Psittaculidae
Genus: Melopsittacus
Species: Melopsittacus undulatos

Did you know?

  • A feral population of Budgies has been recorded since the 1940’s in St. Petersburg, Florida. The birds are now less common due to competition from introduced starlings and English house sparrows.