Budgerigar
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Cvmontuy" title="User:Cvmontuy">Carlos Valenzuela</a> (CC BY-SA 4.0)
NameBudgerigar
Common NameBudgerigar
Scientific NameMelopsittacus undulatus
FamilyPsittaculidae
Wingspan (cm)30
Length (cm)18
Weight (g)35
Plumage DetailsWild budgerigars typically have green underparts, a yellow face, and black scalloped markings on the back, nape, and wings. Domesticated varieties, like the blue ones pictured, come in a vast array of colors including blue, white, yellow, and grey, often retaining the characteristic black wavy markings on the head and wings. They feature small blue cheek patches and a long, tapered tail. The cere (fleshy area above the beak) color indicates sex, typically blue for males and tan/brown for females in breeding condition.
Vocalization / CallBudgerigars are known for their cheerful chirping, chattering, and whistling calls. They are also capable of mimicking sounds and human speech.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, shrubland, savanna, open woodland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNative to the drier inland regions of Australia, Budgerigars are found across most of the continent, avoiding only the most humid coastal areas and Tasmania.
Identifying Featuressmall size, long tapered tail, wavy black markings on head and wings (in most color mutations), cere color indicates sex (blue for males, brown/tan for females), social behavior
Description
The Budgerigar is a small, long-tailed parrot native to Australia, widely known as a popular pet bird. They are highly social and intelligent, often seen in large flocks in their natural habitat, and are recognized for their cheerful vocalizations.
