The term “English Budgie Parakeet” typically refers to a variety of budgerigar (parakeet) that is bred for specific characteristics, particularly larger size and exhibition qualities.
If are you curious about learning more details about English budgie Parakeets then you are at the right place because in this article we will discuss in detail the price, personality, and life span of these fluffy budgies.
History & Biodata of English Budgie
There is only one species of budgerigars, Melopsittacus Undulatus was first scientifically described in 1805 by English zoologist Dr George Kearsly Shaw.
Origin: The budgerigar’s natural habitat is Australia, where it is found in open grasslands, scrublands, and forests. The species was first discovered by Europeans in the late 18th century.
Introduction to Aviculture: Budgerigars were introduced to aviculture in the 19th century, and their popularity as pets began to rise. Breeders started selective breeding for various traits, including color mutations and size.
Development of the English Budgie: According to the history, around the 1840s some wild Australian budgies were taken to the United Kingdom. Over time, breeders aimed to create a distinct variety with specific characteristics. The English Budgie emerged as a result of selective breeding for larger size, different color mutations, and features that would make it suitable for exhibition.
English Budgie Size and Appearance
So now, you come to know that English budgies are larger than other wild budgies, but the question arises how much exactly they are larger?
The average body weight of a wild budgie is 30-40 grams (1.1-1.4 oz), on the other hand, an English budgie body weighs about 45-65 grams (1.7-2.3 oz) on average.
If you talk about the length, they can reach remarkable length, because the average length of wild budgie is 18cm (7in), and on the other hand English are 10-12 inches which makes them different from normal budgie.
One of the distinguishing features of the English Budgie is its comparatively larger head because some English budgies have full-blown head and you cannot even see their eyes which make it like they are blind with no eyes but actually, they can see clearly.
English budgies also have more defined colors from traditional greens and yellows to blues, whites, and various combinations.
English Budgie Personality
Many people like English budgies because of their temperament and behavior, as they are more easygoing, calmer, and quieter. English Budgies showcase pronounced vocal abilities, including the potential to mimic sounds, whistles, and even words.
These big-size budgies demonstrate a quicker aptitude for learning tricks and commands and affectionate behaviors, such as head bobbing and snuggling.
Once, I witnessed my male English Budgie skillfully opening the cage door to access his food. It became evident that he had learned the trick to get to the food, one must first open the door.
This experience enlightened me about their remarkable learning. Another cool thing I like about English Budgie’s personality is that they can learn many words if you teach them well. On average, an English Budgie can learn about 1200 to 1500 words.
The Lifespan of English Budgie
When we look at American budgies and English budgies, English budgies generally don’t live as long. On average, they can live around 5 to 6 years, but with good care, some can live a bit longer, like 6 to 10 years.
In the picture, you can meet my English Budgie named “Sky.” He was born in November 2012, and now, in 2023, he’s still alive, fully active, and loves to play.
How To Take Care Of English Budgies?
Taking care of Exhibition budgies or English budgies involves providing them with proper cage size, a balanced diet, toys for activity, and a suitable environment.
Here are some general guidelines for caring for budgies:
Cage Size of English Budgie:
- Provide a spacious cage to accommodate their larger size. The cage should be at least 18 inches wide, 18 inches deep, and 24 inches tall.
- Horizontal bars on the cage are beneficial for climbing.
Diet for English Budgie:
- Offer a balanced diet of high-quality budgie seed mix which includes canary, white millet, and oat groats. Also provide fresh vegetables, fruits, and leafy greens so they can get all other extra nutrition as well.
- Provide a mineral block and cuttlebone for essential minerals and beak maintenance.
- Fresh water should always be available.
Toys for English Budgies:
- Provide a variety of toys like swings, small balls, and ladders for mental and physical stimulation.
- Rotate toys regularly to keep them engaged.
Grooming for English Budgies:
- English Budgies may require regular grooming, especially around the cere (the fleshy area above the beak) and the vent (the area around the cloaca) because they have Buffy feathers, and sometimes the pop stuck in it near the vent area, You can use a damp cotton swab for gentle cleaning.
- Monitor their nails and beak. If necessary, consult with a vet or an experienced bird groomer for trimming.
Temperature:
- English Budgies generally thrive in temperatures ranging from 65 to 80°F (18 to 24°C).
- If you live in a colder climate, make sure the room temperature stays within the acceptable range. Provide additional heating if needed, but avoid placing the cage near heaters or radiators to prevent overheating.
- In warmer weather, ensure that the room is well-ventilated. You can use fans or air conditioning to maintain a comfortable temperature for your English Budgie.
Health Issues of English Budgies
English Budgies, just like other budgies, might have health problems. Common concerns include respiratory infections, liver disease due to poor diet, feather disorders caused by stress or mites, external and internal parasites, tumors, egg-binding in females, beak and nail overgrowth, kidney disease linked to diet or dehydration, neurological disorders leading to symptoms like head tilting, and malnutrition.
Price of English Budgie:
The price of English Budgies can vary depending on various factors, including the breeder’s reputation, the bird’s lineage, age, color mutations, and regional location. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $150 or more for an English Budgie. However, prices can be higher for show-quality birds with desirable color mutations or bloodlines.
If you are planning to buy an English budgie, you should keep in mind the other costs like accessories, cages, toys, and food stay the same.
Should I buy an English budgie?
Having covered all potential aspects of the English Budgie, the decision is yours. If you prefer a quieter pet bird, the English Budgie is an excellent choice. Additionally, you have the option to showcase your budgie at various pet shows for public display.
Now that you’ve gained insights into English Budgies and enjoyed their captivating pictures, if you’re considering them as your potential pet, make sure to explore the following posts. These will provide additional information to help you make an informed decision before bringing home your first budgie.
Parakeets As Pets Pros And Cons: All You Need to Know
Before You Bring Home a Budgie: Essential Tips for First Time Owners
