Parakeets are one of the most popular types of pet birds, with many varieties across the globe. Each species has a unique story and fascinating characteristics. They also have different colored plumages and enjoy various lifespans. Let’s look at some of the different types of pet parakeets, so you can choose the bird that’s best for you!
1. Bourke’s Parakeets Are Good for Smaller Spaces
Bourke’s Parakeet is one of the best beginner birds. These diminutive parakeets live for up to 15 years. They usually have a beautiful rose pink and grey plumage but may appear in different colors. Bourke’s Parakeet hails from the Australian scrublands and prefers open spaces. Like all parakeets, they are social birds, so it’s better to keep at least a pair together. Their name derives from Sir Richard Bourke, who was a 19th-century governor of New South Wales. They are not as active as other parakeets, which can be a pro if you want a quieter household! Their moderate energy levels are also one of many reasons why they’re suitable birds for apartment living.
2. Red-rumped Parakeets Are Lively and Energetic
Experts argue whether Red Rumps are parakeets or parrots. The reality is that they’re somewhere in between. They grow up to 11 inches long, so they’re larger than most parakeets––and they still have the slim frame that we expect from this type of bird. Red Rumps live for between 15 and 32 years in captivity, depending on the level of care they receive. They’re very active and energetic, so we recommend a cage of at least 30 inches long, 20 inches wide, and 20 inches high. When it comes to cages, bigger is always better and can reduce the risk of aggression between birds.
Red-rumped parakeets are also very hardy and fairly low-maintenance, which makes them one of the best bird species for newcomers!
3. Canary-winged Parakeets Aren’t Suitable for Everyone
The Canary-winged Parakeet is one of the most polarizing subspecies. For starters, they are very lively and crave attention, making them easy to form bonds with. However, Canary-winged Parakeets can be tricky for new owners because of their stubborn personalities. It’s more challenging to train these South American birds compared to other parakeets. Their song is also more shrill than other parakeet species.
Individual parakeets won’t be as loud as pairs, but they still need company to thrive. Owning these birds can be tricky but it’s very enriching. Do your research before you bring them home!
4. Blue-winged Parakeets Are Shrill-Sounding Birds
Also known as the Malabar Parakeet, this variety comes from India, and they’re relatively rare in the U.S. and Europe. These birds reach up to 14.8 inches in length and have a distinctive blue-gray plumage. The males have red bills, while the females have a grayish-black beak. They also have a very shrill sound that some experts describe as “scolding.” It’s not the most melodious sound, but these parakeets’ aesthetic is a good compromise!
They will enjoy a regular pellet diet as well as sliced fruit and vegetables. Like all parakeets, you should sparingly give them seeds because of their high fat content. They love leafy greens but never feed them avocado because it’s toxic.
5. Alexandrine Parakeets Have Vivid Colors
The Alexandrine Parakeet has one of the best origin stories ever. Alexander the Great purportedly brought these stunning birds back to Europe from a campaign in South Asia. They have vivid green feathers and bold red beaks that give them a very eye-catching appearance. They grow up to 24 inches long and are the oldest of the noble parakeets. Alexandrine Parakeets may live up to 30 years in captivity.
You should house them in pairs or small groups with a room temperature of 64°F to 77°F. Don’t forget their tropical origins! As with all small birds, you should house them in a draft and fume-free space. Avoid garages and kitchens because temperature fluctuations and exposure to fumes can cause stress.
6. Green Parakeets Can Prove Hard to Find
The Green Parakeet (or the Mexican Green Conure) is originally from the Rio Grande region of Texas and Mexico. They have long, slim bodies with green plumage. Green Parakeets grow up to 12 inches long and can live for up to 15 years in captivity. They eat fruit and seeds in the wild, but owners should give them formulated pellets. Wild birds eat seeds for energy because of their high fat content, but pet birds aren’t as active, so an all-seed diet can trigger obesity. Green Parakeets are relatively expensive because they’re not as widely available as other options. They hail from rainforests, so many of them face uncertain futures in the wild.
7. Budgerigars Are Popular Parakeet Types
The common budgerigar is one of the most popular types of pet bird. These diminutive birds are only seven or eight inches in length. Their natural color is green, but there are now many mutations. Budgies originate from Australia but have since spread around the world. Many people don’t understand the difference between budgies and parakeets. The reality is simple: budgies are a type of parakeet.
Despite their size, they enjoy a lifespan of seven to 15 years. Their beak color is an indication of their age because younger birds have darker bills. Budgies are lively parakeets and form bonds with their human owners. They are perfect for apartment life because of their tiny stature. We recommend getting a pair so they can keep each other company.
