Blue Parakeet: Info, Pictures, Personality, Food & Care Guide (Vet-Reviewed)
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Pet birds come in all shapes, colors, and sizes. Adored by bird enthusiasts all over the world, the blue parakeet (Melopsittacus undulatus) is a friendly and sociable bird with a unique and striking blue appearance, all packed in a tiny body!
Blue parakeets have captured the hearts of bird lovers for decades. If you’re considering adopting a blue parakeet, it is crucial to do your research on the care requirements for this pet. As a color variation of the parakeet, there is so much to explore about this beautiful blue bird! Blue parakeets are not a specific species but rather a color variation, so they will need the same care as a Melopsittacus undulatus of any color!
A parakeet isn’t a specific type of parrot, but rather a term given to several small to medium-sized species of parrots with long tail feathers. The term parakeet isn’t a taxonomical reference to any genus or family of parrots; the parrots, sometimes referred to as parakeets, span multiple genera.
In the US, the term is sometimes used interchangeably with budgie or budgerigar, which is a reference to the species Melopsittacus undulatus. In this article, the term parakeet refers to a budgie.
Species Overview
| Color: | Blue with black and white accents |
| Size: | 6–7 inches (15–18 cm) |
| Weight: | 1.1–1.4 ounces (30–40 grams) |
| Wingspan: | 11–13 inches (28–33 centimeters) |
These small parakeets are native to Australia, where they inhabit a diverse range of environments, from open grasslands to arid deserts. Their nomadic nature and ability to adapt to varying conditions have contributed to their resilience as a species and their allure as pets.
But the fascination with blue parakeets goes beyond their appearance. These birds are celebrated and loved for their social and intelligent nature. They readily form deep bonds with their human companions, displaying affection and curiosity. Their ability to mimic sounds, including speech, has made them entertaining and beloved companions through the years.
Blue Parakeet Characteristics
The Earliest Records of Blue Parakeets in History
Parakeets have been part of the Australian ecosystem for millions of years, but the budgerigar was first scientifically described in 1805 by English zoologist Dr. George Kearsly Shaw, according to Australian Geographic.1
The blue variation of Melopsittacus undulatus does not exist in the wild; it is a man-made variant produced from selective breeding. The wild variation Melopsittacus undulatus is the green variant. In the wild, the green budgies are found in a variety of habitats, ranging from open grasslands to arid deserts. They are known for their nomadic nature, often moving in search of food and water. Their ability to adapt to diverse environments is a testament to their resilience as a species, which has contributed to their popularity as pets.
How Blue Parakeets Gained Popularity
In the mid-1800s, these birds were highly craved because of their vibrant colors and have since become one of the most commonly kept pet bird species worldwide. In fact, the Melopsittacus undulatus is the most popular pet bird and has been for decades.
Unfortunately, back then, the birds were not always kept as pets to admire. Their feathers were used as “fashion”, so thousands of parakeets were plucked or stuffed, equaling almost 680 tons of feathers sold in London’s Mincing Lane auction houses annually.
Because of this, the Australian branch of the Society for the Protection of Birds made pleas about the welfare of the parakeet and that the use of feathers at this rate will lead to the decline of this species and other bird species.
Formal Recognition of Blue Parakeets
There are no formal societies that recognize bird species as there are for cats and dogs. In fact, parrots are not considered domesticated, either.
However, to protect endangered birds and reduce illegal trade, there is a list of bird species that can be kept as pets as defined by the Animal Welfare Regulation.2
3 Little-Known Facts About the Blue Parakeet
1. They Are Prolific Breeders
Blue parakeets have a well-deserved reputation as prolific breeders. In the wild, these birds have adapted to unpredictable environmental conditions by rapidly reproducing. When kept as pets, blue parakeets are known to have an average clutch size of 4 to 6 eggs, and they can produce multiple clutches per year. Their nesting and breeding behavior is a testament to their remarkable reproductive adaptability.
However, it’s crucial for responsible breeders and pet owners to manage their breeding pairs to ensure the health and well-being of the birds, as constant breeding can deplete their resources and impact their overall health.
2. They Can Speak Up to 100 Words
One of the most endearing and fascinating traits of blue parakeets is their capacity for speech and mimicry. Although not as clear as other parrot species, these small parrots are surprisingly skilled vocalists, capable of learning and repeating words and phrases.
While individual abilities can vary, some blue parakeets have been known to acquire vocabularies of up to 100 words or more. They can mimic not only human speech but also a variety of sounds and noises from their environment. This talent for vocalization, coupled with their social and intelligent nature, makes them a popular choice for those seeking a talkative and engaging pet bird.
3. They Can See in the Ultraviolet Spectrum
One of the little-known but remarkable features of blue parakeets (and all other parrots) is their ability to see in the ultraviolet (UV) spectrum. Unlike humans, who are limited to a different range of visible colors, parrots possess specialized photoreceptor cells in their eyes that allow them to perceive a different spectrum, including UV light.
This unique visual capability has significant implications in their daily lives, aiding them in tasks such as foraging for food, identifying potential mates, and recognizing patterns on plumage. It’s considered one of their evolutionary adaptations, as it provides them with a different perception of their surroundings, allowing them to excel in various aspects of their natural behavior.
Diet & Nutrition
The diet of a blue parakeet should include a variety of foods to meet their nutritional requirements. A well-rounded diet consists of high-quality pellets forming the bulk of their diet, with smaller fractions of vegetables, healthy seeds, nuts, legumes, and a very small fraction of fruit. These components provide essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to support their health.
Fresh water should always be readily available to ensure hydration. Bird parents should be aware of specific dietary restrictions and avoid toxic foods to maintain their bird’s well-being. Many common human foods, such as avocado, are extremely toxic for birds. It’s best to discuss your pet bird’s nutritional needs and safety with your veterinarian. Budgies benefit from having their food offered to them in the form of puzzles or interactive toys, as they are natural foragers.
Cage/Housing Requirements
Selecting an appropriate cage and setting up the ideal housing environment is crucial for the well-being of your blue parakeet. The cage should be spacious enough to allow for natural movement, including flying and hopping between perches. A minimum enclosure size for a single parakeet would be at least 18x18x24 inches, and then 24x24x26 inches for a pair of parakeets. Please note that if housed in a cage this size, your birds would need to be let out everyday for exercise, as such space isn’t suitable for long-term housing.
The cage should also include various perches of different sizes and textures to keep their feet healthy. Toys and interactive elements are essential for mental stimulation and preventing boredom.
Proper placement of the cage is equally important, with avoidance of drafts, direct sunlight, and harmful fumes.
Exercise
Blue parakeets are active birds by nature, and they require exercise to maintain physical and mental health. Ideally, it’s best to provide time outside every day.
Regular flying within a secure and bird-proofed space is essential. In the absence of free flight, owners should provide opportunities for exercise and mental stimulation within the cage through toys, swings, and puzzles.
Social interaction with their owners and other birds, if applicable, is also a form of exercise that promotes their well-being and happiness.
Does the Blue Parakeet Make a Good Pet?
While they are considered easy to care for and are perfect for novice bird owners, caring for a blue parakeet still involves several key considerations. As we’ve discussed, ensuring proper nutrition is crucial for their well-being. Additionally, providing an appropriately sized cage with various perches and stimulating toys is essential.
As mentioned above, blue parakeets are active birds, and they need an environment that allows them to exercise and engage their agile bodies. Regular interaction and mental stimulation are equally important for maintaining their happiness and health, as they are highly social creatures that thrive on companionship.
Regular check-ups by a qualified avian veterinarian are crucial to ensure your pet’s health. Maintaining proper hygiene in their living environment, providing a balanced diet, and monitoring for signs of illness are essential aspects of responsible ownership.
Being proactive in addressing any health concerns promptly is considered as a part of responsible pet ownership and something all parrot parents should actively do.
Conclusion
The blue parakeet, with its rich history, temperament, vocalizations, and unique appearance, has rightfully earned its place as one of the most popular and beloved pet birds in the world.
Providing proper care and attention to their diet, housing, exercise, and health needs is crucial for ensuring their well-being and happiness as cherished companions. As we continue to uncover the hidden facets of these remarkable birds, we appreciate the unique qualities that make them a delightful and rewarding addition to our lives as pet owners!
See also:
- Male vs Female Parakeet: Vet-Reviewed Differences
- Conure vs Parakeet: Vet-Reviewed Differences (With Pictures)
Featured Image Credit: pets in frames, Shutterstock
