Budgerigar
Melopsittacus undulatus
Conservation Status
Least ConcernAves · Psittaciformes · Psittaculidae
About
The budgerigar, also known as the common parakeet, shell parakeet or budgie, is a small, long-tailed, seed-eating parrot native to Australia. Naturally, the species is green and yellow with black, scalloped markings on the nape, back, and wings. Budgies are bred in captivity with colouring of blues, whites, yellows, greys, and even with small crests. Juveniles and chicks are monomorphic, while adults are told apart by their cere colouring and their behaviour.
Fun Fact
Budgerigars can learn vocabularies of over 100 words, and one named Puck held the Guinness record at 1,728 words — the largest vocabulary of any bird ever recorded.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Arid scrublands and grasslands
Diet
Granivore
Lifespan
5-8 years
Threats
- Overgrazing
- Invasive Species