Guide for your budgerigar's first 24-48hrs

Congratulations on your new feathered best friend/s

    

Eating and Drinking

During the initial 24-48 hours of bringing a budgerigar (commonly known as a parakeet) home, it is common for them to be cautious and not eat or drink in plain sight. This behavior stems from their natural instinct to assess whether their new environment and the people around them are friend or foe. However, you may notice the discarded husks of the seeds, indicating that they are eating even when you are not present.

As your budgerigar gradually becomes more comfortable in their new surroundings and develops trust with you, they will start eating and drinking in front of you. However, this process may take up to a week or even longer, as budgerigars are inherently wary creatures. It is important to allow them the time they need to adjust and establish a sense of security before they feel confident to eat and drink openly.

In conclusion, it is a normal behavior for budgerigars to initially refrain from eating or drinking in front of humans due to their instinctual wariness. With patience and time, they will eventually acclimate to their new environment and feel comfortable enough to eat and drink in your presence.

Handling

When bringing a new bird into your home, it's important to establish a strong bond early on. One effective way to do this is by engaging in activities that promote closeness and trust. For the first 24-48 hours, it's recommended to spend quality time with your bird, gently encouraging them to step up onto your finger, and allowing them to explore their new surroundings in a quiet and calm space (Yes I know, its hard with all the excitement in air!).

In addition, reading stories to your bird in a soft, soothing voice can help them become more familiar with your presence and voice. Using millet spray as a treat during these bonding activities can also help strengthen your bond with your budgerigar or parakeet.

By taking these steps, you can ensure that your new feathered friend feels safe, secure, and loved in their new environment. As your bond grows stronger over time, your bird will become more comfortable and responsive to your care and attention.

Noises & Stress

It is important to be aware that loud and startling noises can be extremely stressful for a budgerigar, especially during the first 24-48 hours in their new home. These noises can include loud music and/or TV, dogs barking, and loud musical instruments such as drums.

To further reduce stress, it is recommended to minimize sound and fast movements around the cage. Using a towel to cover the cage over night can also help to create a more calming environment for your budgerigar. It is important to allow your budgerigar to familiarize itself with its new environment before making any changes to the location of the cage or moving the cage and bird around the house. This will give your budgerigar time to adjust and settle in.

As your budgerigar is already experiencing stress from the unfamiliar environment, it is important to minimize any additional stressors to promote a healthy and happy transition. In line with this, we also recommend using Vetafarm Spark liquid to help alleviate stress and support your budgerigar's well-being during this transition period.

Overall, reducing stress and providing a comfortable and calming environment for your budgerigar is crucial for their well-being and happiness. By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a smooth and less stressful transition for your new pet.

Covering your budgies cage for bedtime

As responsible budgerigar owners, it's important to ensure that our feathered friends get the proper amount of sleep they need to stay healthy and happy. In the wild, budgerigars are naturally accustomed to sleeping in darkness when the sun goes down. However, in our homes, with the potential for bright lights from TVs, lamps, or other sources, it's crucial to provide them with the darkness they need for bedtime.

One effective way to achieve this is by covering their cage with a dark sheet or towel. This not only darkens their sleeping area but also creates a sense of security for them. It's important to use a dark-colored sheet or towel that blocks out light effectively. This can help mimic the natural darkness that budgerigars experience in the wild, allowing them to get the uninterrupted sleep they need.

It's worth noting that while most budgerigars benefit from being covered at bedtime, some birds may not prefer it. As with any aspect of pet care, it's important to observe your budgerigar's individual personality and preferences. If your budgerigar appears to be uncomfortable or stressed when covered, it may be better to leave the cage uncovered. Pay attention to their behavior and adjust accordingly to ensure they get the quality sleep they require.

In general, budgerigars need a minimum of 12 hours of sleep per night to maintain their optimal health and well-being. Providing them with a dark, quiet sleeping environment can help them rest properly and thrive. Remember, it's all about understanding your bird's unique needs and preferences through trial and error, and providing them with the best care possible.