'Who's a pretty boy then? (Budgie)

Member Name: Claribella

Product:	Budgie
Date:	08/10/09 (28 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Can be tamed

Disadvantages: It takes a bit of patience and time

My dad is a bird man and although his dream was to own a bird of prey, he dulled down his desire with other birds that were cheaper and easier to care for, one being the good old budgie. I developed the same passion for birds and it wasn't long before I wanted my own personal bird to care for.

The most memorable budgie we had was a little blue and white one called 'Sky'. When we bought him home he was so shy and would peck out fingers to pieces if we went anywhere near him but with some time and patience, he turned into a wonderful companion. He would land on you if you shouted his name, he would play football with a small ball and he would even eat off your plate when it was tea time. He was such a character and it was a sad day in our house when he finally passed on.

Budgies are lovely birds but in my experience they are very timid animals and it takes a lot to get them to the stage that Sky was at. So heres some advice from personal experience.

Firstly, they are birds so they need a space to stretch their wings. It's no good buying one and then leaving it in it's cage forever. We used to let our birds have the run of the downstairs but it's important that everyone in the house knows the bird is out of it's cage. We had one occasion where Sky flew out of the door and into a bush. Thankfully because he was so well trained, he flew back in when we called him!

Secondly, if you want a tame bird then you need to be willing to put in the time. Take it slow and don't give up. Try getting them onto your hand first and then use treats to woe them. Eventually your bond will make them want to come to you.

Thirdly, budgies are good little talkers so you can teach them to talk. The males talk better than females so when you choose one try to go for that if that is your goal.

Fourthly, try to get a baby budgie because older birds will have picked up habits which will be harder to work with.

Finally, don't give up! The first time they fly to you without any treats is a rewarding experience and well worth it.

Summary: A great pet