How Many Parakeets Should I Get to Fit in a Cage Comfortably

The number of parakeets you should get to fit in a cage depends on your lifestyle, the size of your cage, and the personalities of your parakeets. A pet owners should get 1-2 parakeets. This will give them enough companionship without requiring too much attention. 

Higher lifestyle owners who have more time to spend with their pets can get 3-4 parakeets. This will give them more opportunities for interaction and playtime. 

Owners who are very busy and own other pets should get 1-2 parakeets. This will reduce the risk of conflict between the parakeets and your other pets.

Do Budgies Need Companions

Do Budgies Need Companions? 

If you are only able to have one budgie, it is important to spend plenty of time with it to ensure that it does not get lonely. However, if you are able to have two or more budgies, they will be able to keep each other company.

When pairing budgies, it is important to choose compatible individuals. Some things to consider include the budgies’ age, personality, and gender. It is also important to introduce the budgies slowly to give them time to get to know each other.

Types of Cages for Budgies

There are many different types of cages available for budgies, but the most important thing is to choose a cage that is large enough for your bird to spread its wings

A good rule of thumb is to choose a cage that is at least 20 inches wide, 18 inches deep, and 24 inches tall.

Here are some of the most popular types of cages for budgies:

  • Standard bird cages: These cages are a good option for one or two budgies. They typically have a wire mesh construction and come with a variety of accessories, such as perches, swings, and food and water bowls.
     
  • Aviaries: Aviaries are a good option for larger groups of budgies. They are typically made of wood or metal and can be custom-built to fit your needs.
  • Flight cages: Flight cages are a good option for budgies that are allowed to fly freely. They are typically larger than standard bird cages and have a wider wingspan.

Choosing the right cage size for 4 budgies

The minimum cage size for 4 budgies is 36 inches wide, 24 inches deep, and 24 inches tall. The minimum cage size for 6 budgies is 48 inches wide, 24 inches deep, and 30 inches tall.

A good rule of thumb is to choose a cage that is at least 4 square feet per budgie.

Right cage size for 4 budgies

Aviaries and their benefits for multiple budgies

Aviaries are a great option for multiple budgies. They provide plenty of space for the birds to fly and exercise, and they can be customized to fit your needs. 

Aviaries also tend to be quieter than standard bird cages, which can be important if you live in an apartment or other small space.

Aviaries:

  • For 5-10 budgies: Small aviary with dimensions around 6′ x 6′ x 6′ (180cm x 180cm x 180cm).
  • For 10-20 budgies: Medium-sized aviary around 8′ x 8′ x 6′ (240cm x 240cm x 180cm).
  • For 20-30 budgies: Large aviary about 10′ x 10′ x 8′ (300cm x 300cm x 240cm).
  • For 30-50 budgies: Extra-large aviary around 12′ x 12′ x 8′ (360cm x 360cm x 240cm).
  • For 50+ budgies: Very large aviary, ideally 20′ x 20′ x 10′ or more (600cm x 600cm x 300cm).

Cage size for budgies

We provide a minimum cage size recommendations. It is always better for the well-being of your budgies to take larger size. 

Additionally, it’s important to incorporate perches, toys, and other enrichments. It will ensure a stimulating and comfortable environment for your budgies.

Number of BudgiesMinimum Cage Size (in inches)
118″ x 18″ x 18″
224″ x 18″ x 18″
330″ x 18″ x 18″
436″ x 24″ x 24″
548″ x 24″ x 24″
648″ x 24″ x 30″
760″ x 24″ x 30″
860″ x 24″ x 36″
960″ x 30″ x 36″
1072″ x 30″ x 36″

Keeping male budgies together

Male budgies can be kept together in the same cage. But it is important to introduce them slowly and carefully. If the budgies are not compatible, they may fight.

Keeping female budgies together

Female budgies can also be kept together in the same cage. They are typically less aggressive than male budgies. They are more likely to get along.

Introducing male and female budgies in the same cage

Start by placing the cages next to each other so that the budgies can get used to each other’s scent. 

Once they seem comfortable, you can try introducing them in a neutral space (spare room). If the budgies seem to get along, you can then place them in the same cage.

Pros and Cons of keeping budgies in pairs

Pros:

  • Budgies are happier and healthier when they have companions.
  • They will be less likely to become bored or lonely.
  • They will be able to interact with each other and play.

Cons:

  • If the budgies do not get along, they may fight.
  • You will need to provide a larger cage for two budgies.
  • You will need to spend more time socializing with the budgies.

Understanding the Winter Challenges for Budgies

Budgies are native to Australia, where the climate is warm year-round. 

As a result, they are not well-adapted to cold weather. In the winter, budgies can become susceptible to respiratory infections and other health problems.

Here are some tips on how to keep your budgies warm and comfortable during the winter:

  • Place the cage in a warm room. The ideal temperature for budgies is between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. If your home is colder than this, you may need to place the cage in a warmer room, such as a sunroom or living room.
  • Use a heat lamp or heater. If your home is very cold, you may need to use a heat lamp or heater to keep the cage warm. However, be careful not to overheat the cage, as this can also be harmful to your budgie.
  • Cover the cage at night. This will help to keep the heat in the cage and prevent drafts from getting to your budgie.
  • Provide plenty of fresh food and water. Budgies need to eat and drink more often in the winter to stay warm. Make sure to provide them with plenty of fresh food and water throughout the day.
  • Take your budgie to the vet for regular checkups. This is especially important during the winter when your budgie is more susceptible to illness.

What to Eat (and Avoid) in Winter for Parakeet’s Optimal Health

  • Increase the number of fruits and vegetables in their diet. Fruits and vegetables are a good source of vitamins and minerals, which are essential for keeping your budgie healthy during the winter.
  • Add a small amount of cooked brown rice to their diet. Brown rice is a good source of carbohydrates, which will help to keep your budgie warm.
  • Avoid giving your budgie too many seeds in the winter. Seeds are high in fat, which can make your budgie overweight.
  • Make sure your budgie has access to fresh water at all times. It is especially important to keep your budgie’s water fresh during the winter, as they will need to drink more often to stay hydrated.

How to Introduce New Budgies to the Flock (Step by Step)

  1. Quarantine the new budgie for at least two weeks. This will help to ensure that the new budgie is healthy and does not have any diseases that could spread to the older budgie.
  2. Place the new budgie’s cage next to the older budgie’s cage. This will allow the budgies to get used to each other’s scent and presence.
  3. Start by exchanging toys and food between the two cages. This will help the budgies to associate each other with positive things.
  4. After a few days, you can start to let the budgies see each other through the bars of their cages. Supervise this closely and be prepared to separate the budgies if they show any signs of aggression.
  5. Once the budgies seem to be comfortable seeing each other, you can start to allow them to interact in a neutral space, such as a bathroom or spare room.
  6. If the budgies seem to get along well, you can then place them in the same cage. Again, supervise this closely at first to make sure that there are no problems.

Even if you follow these steps carefully, there is always a chance that the two budgies will not get along. 

  • Be patient. It may take some time for the budgies to get used to each other.
  • Be persistent. Do not give up if the budgies do not get along right away. Keep trying and eventually, they will come around.
  • Supervise the budgies closely. This will help to prevent any fights from breaking out.
  • Provide plenty of space. A large cage will give the budgies plenty of room to avoid each other if they need to.
  • Offer plenty of distractions. Toys, food, and other activities will help to keep the budgies occupied and less likely to fight.

When Not to Keep 4 Budgies Together

There are some cases where it is not advisable to keep 4 budgies together. Here are some factors to consider:

  • Budgies form hierarchies within their flocks. If the budgies in your group are not compatible, this can lead to injuries and stress.
  • If you notice any signs of aggression or incompatibility between your budgies, it is best to separate them. Some signs of aggression include:
  • If you have a difficult budgie group, there are a few things you can do to manage them:
    • Provide plenty of space: A large cage will give the budgies plenty of room to avoid each other if they need to.
    • Offer plenty of distractions: Toys, food, and other activities will help to keep the budgies occupied and less likely to fight.
    • Supervise the budgies closely: This will help to prevent any fights from breaking out.
    • Separate the budgies if necessary: If the budgies are fighting, you may need to separate them for a period of time.

Why Budgies Make Great Companions

They are:

  • Small and easy to care for
  • Relatively quiet
  • Active and playful
  • Colorful and attractive
  • Intelligent and trainable
  • Affectionate and social

Lifespan and Cost of Budgies

  • Lifespan: Budgies can live for 10-15 years in captivity, with some individuals living even longer.
  • Cost: The cost of a budgie can vary depending on the breeder or pet store, but they typically cost between $20 and $50.

Different Types of Budgies and Their Characteristics

There are many different types of budgies, each with its own unique appearance and personality. Some of the most popular types of budgies include:

  • English budgies: These budgies are larger than other types of budgies and have a rounder body shape. They are also known for their calm and gentle nature.
  • Australian budgies: These budgies are the original type of budgie and are native to Australia. They are smaller than English budgies and have a more slender body shape. They are also known for their playful and active nature.
  • Lutino budgies: These budgies are completely yellow in color, with the exception of their eyes and feet. They are known for their cheerful and outgoing personality.
  • Pied budgies: These budgies have a mixture of white and colored feathers. They are known for their unique and eye-catching appearance.

Ideal Environment for Budgies

Here are some of the most important things to keep in mind when providing an ideal environment for your budgie:

  • Cage: The cage should be large enough for your budgie to spread its wings and fly. It should also have plenty of perches and toys to keep your budgie entertained.
  • Location: The cage should be placed in a quiet area of the house where your budgie will not be disturbed. It should also be away from drafts and direct sunlight.
  • Temperature: The ideal temperature for budgies is between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Humidity: The ideal humidity level for budgies is between 40 and 50%.
  • Diet: Budgies should be fed a balanced diet of seeds, pellets, and fresh fruits and vegetables.
  • Water: Budgies should always have access to fresh water.

Conclusion

Budgies are beautiful and intelligent creatures that can make wonderful companions. However, they are also delicate and require careful care. 

By following the tips in this guide, you can help ensure that your budgie lives a long and healthy life.

FAQ

How many parakeets should you have together?

You can take as many as you want if you can take care properly. If you have enough time, and plenty of food to feed them then it’s okay to get. But at least 2 parakeets are better than 1 as they need companionship.

Can 2 female budgies live with one male?

Yes, 2 female budgies can live with one male. In fact, this is the most common way to house parakeets. As long as the parakeets are introduced properly and get along well, they should be able to live together peacefully.

Can two female birds mate?

No, two female birds cannot mate. Only male and female birds can mate. If two female birds are kept together, they may act like they are mating, but this is just a form of social bonding. They will not be able to produce any offspring.

Scroll to Top