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Post anywhere you can to try and find the owners. Facebook, nextdoor, local bird forums, maybe even try to contact an avian vet and put up signs, anything you can think of. If it's been months and you still can't find the owner, and you plan to keep him, you should get natural wood perches instead of dowel perches (like these) maybe get a rope perch too, shredding toys with paper (like these) are my birds favorite toys, but also toys without paper should be provided, and you'll need to switch them to a pelleted diet with vegetables.
That being said, this is only if you wish to keep them, and don't find the owners. If you will eventually try to give them to a bird rescue or something, you could just go to petco and buy a couple toys, and maybe a rope perch. Since he's really tame, he probably eats vegetables and maybe pellets, so you could try different vegetables and see if he eats any. If you can, I would make a room where he's safe to fly around without the cats, but if not try to keep the cats away from the bird while he's out.
Use happy huts at your own risk. Lots of injuries and deaths happen because people put these huts in their cages. I think a lot of people on here would not recommend the use of them at all unless you are very very careful. Check the hut over daily, trim loose strings, discard if it is damaged. Not only are those things a safety hazard they can also encourage nesting behaviors in your bird. Which can lead to behavioral issues. Another thing you see come up is heated perches. These are also risky, if they malfunction you can burn your bird's feet. Probably the only method of keeping your bird warm that I've seen be mostly safe and successful is a heated panel you can put on the side of the cage.
Yes, actually one like this will do ya fine and itll fit on most dressers and you can order it on Amazon, but be sure to let them out of the cage most of the time!Good Luck!
I don’t know if it’s been mentioned but as big a cage as possible would be ideal! I use a prevue (not sure I have the spelling right) for one part of our flock and I’ll get the link for you. It’ll be spacey for a little bird, but all the space is great for them!
ETA: cage link - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00SK7HOYA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_imm_TEHN1BWYGME2H2F7VSV7
Of course! Now, it terms of cage zixe- that may be okay for one bird, so long as they got outside time, but two birds need more room. It is more expensive, but once they start to get more comfortable chances are keeping them in a cage small will eventually cause issues.. ( https://www.amazon.com/53-inch-Birdcage-Wrought-Cockatiels-Parakeets/dp/B09YM2ZL6G/ref=pd_aw_ic_dpcp_b_1_m_3?pd_rd_w=qPEZI&content-id=amzn1.sym.86e26518-2bc5-4821-a6b0-3f8f18b9b1f8&pf_rd_p=86e26518-2bc5-4821-a6b0-3f8f18b9b1f8&pf_rd_r=F... ) is a cage that could (comfortably for the most part) house two budgies. I have a similar one and have owned it for two years, it's a great cage! This is one of the cheaper options, but your welcome to browse yourself just on Amazon and such. A basic rule is that it should be more wide then tall; or atleast be a flight cage. Overall I would just recommend to move them into a bigger cage as soon as you can, I understand it might not be immediate because larger cages can be pricey, but definitely get them a larger cage. (Fair warning; some larger cages will not have the appropriate bar width; just make sure to double check that :)
And by the way you might want to upgrade your nesting box to one like this (not the exact one) but those in my opinion are the best ones so the birds have privacy and space and you can still monitor them by lifting the wooden hinges
Yes I agree just some advice, based on the sub you posted on you might want a budgie/parakeet a great cage for a budgie/parakeet is a cage like this that is great for one and good for two if they’re out most of the day, good luck!
Here are the pellets I use: https://www.amazon.com/Harrisons-High-Potency-Super-Fine/dp/B0040QAESI?pd_rd_w=pOCDM&pf_rd_p=e0d46bc2-436f-4db3-a26e-323523040b19&pf_rd_r=5NQP74FNVXDABQGTZZN8&pd_rd_r=79a238a7-e1d9-48c6-baf4-9b92d7eeba69&pd_rd_wg=p6lHk&pd_rd_i=...
No seed at all except for snacks. And here is a list of safe fruits and vegetables:
https://www.omlet.us/guide/parakeets/parakeet_food/fresh_food/
Thank you for the awesome comment!!
In your opinion, would this cage be good? I know it’s taller than it is wider but I am having trouble finding one like that!
I agree. that cage is so depressing and is making me angry. first off circular cages don't have corners for them to feel safe in. it seems like you bought a bird without knowing anything about them! get a bigger cage please! if you don't want to spend too much money, try this one: https://www.amazon.com/YAHEETECH-Rectangle-Stackable-Cockatiels-Lovebirds/dp/B08LVPHZXY/ref=sr_1_18?dchild=1&keywords=long+bird+cage&qid=1619210350&sr=8-18
If they're plastic and can't be wrecked, they're probably not all that fun for very long.
Stuff like this will keep your bird active. Some types can be good for hiding treats so they forage for some of their food. Yes, they do have to be replaced from time to time, but that's the whole purpose. The faster your bird wrecks it, the more they like it.
I have one of these in each birds cage: K&H PET PRODUCTS 100537786... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HMLT6SM?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
You should get a uv lamp for your birb, too. I have 2 for my 2 babies.
Also, when he bites, as much as you want to react, ignore the bite and try distracting him with something else, or move your fingers so there's not loose skin to bite, if possible. Like bend your finger so the skin is tight or whatever. They can't get a grip and give up. These 2 things helped with my bitey birb baby.
By natural wood perches, I mean things like this, although sticks from outside definitely work as long as you clean and bake it to kill all the bacteria (you can google the process if you want)
Toys don't need to be colorful, but parrots are typically more excited about colorful things. As long as it's soft enough to chew through, the toys are fine.
Agreed! Feed them patiently by hand over a couple months too. Not forcefully, just show food in your hand to them and keep it very still below them so they feel safe. The goal is they associate it as not a threat but a reward. If they choose not to eat from your hand after a few minutes of waiting, take it out slowly. They prefer to have their cage in a corner, near a window. They enjoy warmth, and should avoid being near AC in the direct air.
I highly highly recommend this feeder. They get confused because seed casings look like food, but it can cause them to starve because the human eye tends to think food is their in basic dishes. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075XHT56S?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Personally, I think going as big as possible is the best thing you can do. It adds more room for them to hop around/flap/play and more room for toys. If you have him out of his cage most of the day, i would say having a big cage is less necessary but in general I’d say it is only beneficial. Most important thing when looking at larger cages is the shape and bar spacing. Having too large or bar spacing can be hazardous for them and uncomfortable.
For my two parakeets, I bought this cage: Yaheetech Wrought Iron Standing Large Parrot Parakeet Flight Bird Cage for Small Parrot Cockatiel Sun Parakeet Green Cheek Conure Lovebird Budgie Finch Canary Bird Cage with Stand https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07P94NY95/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_FPFEMQJRYFX3JQ3MNW79?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
It is honestly a great price for how large it is and the bar spacing is adequate too. My sun conure has their own one of this and my green cheek has this cage as well. It looks nice and has a lot of space for toys. I would highly recommend it.
Best of luck to you and your feathered buddy!
I would try to get more natural wood perches, especially the ones with bark for more texture (like these). Obviously it's good that you have one, but most of your perches are dowel (the perch, the swing, and the ladder, vs the one natural perch).
Also, I would get some better toys. Plastic toys are generally not recommended, because they don't stimulate the natural crave to chew and forage that birds need, and most budgies aren't a fan of wood, because it's very hard for their softer beaks. I would recommend softer toys like wicker balls, shredded paper, seagrass mats, finger traps, and yucca (pretty much anything soft and chewable). My budgies (and cockatiel) especially love wicker balls filled with shredded paper.
If they don't get a lot of outside the cage time, I would eventually try to get a bigger cage, because they're generally pretty active birds.
I think you should go back to the bird store and get whichever seed mix they have for budgies (should look something like this)
The problem with sunflower seeds is 1. It's too hard for a budgie's beak to crack open and 2. Most sunflower seeds in gas stations have a bunch of salt, which isn't good for budgies. Keep the millet in for now.
The PDF on this page is excellent, although it's a bit outdated. https://mickaboo.org/resources/proper-avian-lighting
I am using this bulb. See the reviews for someone that did testing on it. ALZO 15W (140W) Joyous Light... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RYXRDY7?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I would find a brand that makes their own rope from raw material or is able to answer those questions for you. Even if a product is marked "for pets", don't assume that the seller is being truthful. Try to find a company that is 100% into a particular category of products and transparent about their practices - don't be afraid to ask questions.
This company is a rope maker and are transparent about their sisal rope product. They are willing to describe which rope products are safe for pets and which are not. I would trust this company
https://www.amazon.com/Twisted-Sisal-Rope-inch-Scratching/dp/B01JTT634O/
If they can get through the bars, that's super dangerous. Birds can get injured or killed doing that, especially if they get their head stuck.
Idk why you acquired your animals before you got a proper setup for them, but the easiest thing to do would be to pick up a travel cage from your local pet store and have them live in that while your actual cage is in the mail. (If you haven't already ordered it from Amazon or wherever, do it now.) You'll need a travel cage anyway for when you take them to the avian vet for their initia checkup, annual checkup, and emergency visits.
The cage you get needs to have a MAX 1/2" bar spacing. It's better to get a cage that's larger horizontally, because that's the direction budgies fly in. It also needs to be wide enough for them to fully open their wings inside it to fly, even with some toys and stuff in the way.
Some suggestions:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08BZH7QQP?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
There are many factors that could be wrong here. You need to get the chick back to its parents or to the breeder that knows what they are doing. You are far too inexperienced to be dealing with this and the chick will die otherwise.
Also, do not "adopt" from this breeder again. They are crooked to have sold their bird at this age and they should be well aware that a nearly bald chick will be unable to thrive without its nestmates or under a very experienced carer. Parrots can be separated from the nest when they can eat solid food on their own. For a YSGCC this typically takes at least 2 months.
I see that you are based in India. If you do not have any avian specialists in the area, then you must keep your parrots as healthy as possible. Realistically, most parrots can make it through most of their lives without having to see a vet. Smaller parrots do not take much money to maintain but you MUST get a large enough cage. If you can't afford a 75x50x50cm cage, you cannot reasonably keep parrots.
https://www.amazon.in/Foldable-Metal-Parrot-2steel-Dimensions/dp/B09Q3JXF6D/
This size cage should be able to hold 1-3 conures or indian ringnecks. Look for a cage which has a flat top and no round side walls. Avoid "guillotine" style doors and look for one that has a locking mechanism and the ability to stay open
DM me if you need more information
In addition to ParrotAlert.com, I would post on Craigslist, Nextdoor.com, and any local Facebook groups plus contact local animal shelters and tell them you have him. If you want to post flyers, pet stores and vet offices often have bulletin boards. His wings are partially clipped, so he hasn't gone far. You could probably find his owner by posting flyers in your neighborhood.
I have this one and me and my birds are extremely happy with it :D
This Is the one I have, its a little expensive but soo worth it if you have the space and money! Its a perfect size for them, enough room to flap their little wings :D! My birb absolutely LOVES it so I definitely recommend it!
Thanks! For some reason I was stuck on Amazon and I was unhappy with what I found there. The cage I got was a 30 inch (too small cage) that when I opened the box and measured it, it was more like 22 inches (way too small). The 52-54 inch cages listed the bar spacing as 0.6 in which is too big. I ended up buying this one on chewy
Right so I’d definitely recommend a much larger cage so if you have a bit higher of a budget for a cage I recommend one located on Aosom like this might be nice but if you’re in the lower side of the budget spectrum a cage on Amazon like this hope it helps, don’t forget to buy plenary of foraging toys and natural perches, good luck!
I don't know about two story cages but I had to think about the Montana Madeira Double immediately. There are similar cages that are a bit more budget friendly.
That’s not even big enough for one budgie. Each budgie needs at least 6000 cubic inches (2 birds need 12000, 3 need 18000 etc).
Budgies are parrots and need constant stimulation. They should always have access to toys.
This cage is a wonderful size for budgies, and is pretty cheap. This cage is a bit more expensive and is smaller, but can be set on top of a table or desk, and it comes with a divider so you can separate them if they get aggressive.
Don't get anything with mirrors
Don't get anything like a hut or a coconut or something that could be a nest.
My parakeet's favorite toys were the ones that were kind of like this one because it could be chewed apart to his heart's content. He really liked spiral rope toys to use as a perch and sleeping location. Other than that, I made him a jingle bell toy that he loved because it made a ton of noise.
No, I would suggest a cage like this because budgies fly side to side, not up
These are some pretty good ones I always go for natural wood looks and never those tiny rods that have no texture and are just round
For pellets, I strongly recommend Harrison's Super fine: https://www.amazon.com/Harrisons-High-Potency-Super-Fine/dp/B0040QAESI/ref=pd_bap_m_csi_vtp_0?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_w=oYXXK&pf_rd_p=306cc3dd-f716-4afe-8aeb-47781d60c63f&pf_rd_r=NFVD3ZYW9NN25AWCYX33&pd_rd_r=fe5f1c2a-6342-427f-b489-dc...
It was recommended to me here on Reddit when my bird died, and my birds love it. They get seed only as treats from my hand now.
We have the prevue hendryx which is in the guideline requirements for parakeets - as you've discovered the bar width is really important, not just because they can escape but because they can injure or even kill themselves trying to slip through the bars. Unless you're a super confident handyman I wouldn't recommend trying to adapt the cage with chicken wire etc for the same reason - it's just not worth the risk.
Sell the ferret cage on Craigslist and buy a proper bird cage.
https://www.amazon.com/SUPER-DEAL-Chinchilla-Cockatiel-Cockatoo/dp/B0734SYJQG/ref=mp_s_a_1_9?dchild=1&keywords=bird+cage&qid=1624166833&sr=8-9 this is similar to the one I got. You have to build it yourself which is is pretty straightforward but could be difficult with arthritis.
I just got these toys and this toyfor my parents' parakeets. Preening toys and soft wooden toys are great for small birds. You want to give them things they can destroy to keep them busy and happy. Bonus points: stuff they can safely chew helps them maintain their beaks.
Edit: added the other item.
All of this. OP, in the morning see if you can get your hands on some pellets (Zupreem or Tropoican are fine if they have them for small birds like this) and a couple small dishes for food and water. Dollar store plastic dishes or whatever. Give the bird a couple tbsp of the pellets. It may not eat right away because it's stressed, but it will eventually get hungry enough.
I've been using this for several years.
https://smile.amazon.com/Pet-Products-9010-Thermo-Perch-Heated/dp/B07HML9LX2/
Some people have reported problems but I haven't experienced them, but I also checked the temp with a IR thermo before I used. It also requires sanding/scoring to make the surface rough enough to grip. But other than that, it's really great.
I got a cage for my parakeets off Amazon. They love it in there. It's pretty big so they can fly around.
I got this one from another website. I bought separate bowls though.
I got it from Amazon, though I think you could easily make this. A square of wood and some quartz sand plus some mounting stuff.
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https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07B2GXQRB/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Cage should be as big as you can afford. However,as he is so new, I’d wait a moth or two before changing up the cage especially if you let him out so often. Check out this url. You can search by bird type.
I’ve found Amazon a great resource for toys. Also look locally for specialty feed stores near you. They can have toys for a lot less and usually offer a wide variety of foods.
This is my go to source for manzanita perches it’s much cheaper than pet stores. These types of perches are good for birds feet. Don’t buy these until you know which size cage you end up with.
Finally, focus on veggies. I feed mine broccoli, celery and carrots that are fine chopped every other day. They just don’t eat it if I offer it daily.
Thanks for taking your role as bird parent so seriously. Blu is in good hands!
In order, answering your questions, but first off congrats on having two new birds! 1:training. Training is the best idea for your birds, it helps them stay active and helps you bond with them. As far as perching on your hand, its not too late, its never too late, but it may take time. You cannot force them to step up, that will only hurt your relationships. If you ever heard of touch training, I suggest looking into it and begin asap. It will help tons in the long run. What you can do (and make sure its the birds choice: youll know) is to give them treats from your hand. Give them a treat. Let them finish. Wait a second. Repeat. When you feel they are beginning to trust you, and your hands, then you can put your finger infront of them and hold the treat out: just enough so they HAVE to climb onto your finger to get it. You can do this in the cage, or in a room, doesnt matter.
2: cage size. The sky is the limit, the bigger the better, but for two regular sized budgies, the minimum cage requirement, i can't remember off the top of my head, but here is a good starter size on amazon. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075DX5LD1/ref=cm_sw_r_fm_apa_i_eI02Db0N9CR46
Whats in the cage should be varying perches, no dowel rods, no sand perches. Nothing grainy, ever. This can cause bumblefoot because stuff can get caught in their toes. Cloth, or basic rope perches are amazing, and are fairly cheap
this is my ideal cage, only $89. This and the budgie(parakeets and budgies are essentially the same, idk if there is a difference) subreddit, r/budgies, are great resources for cage, food, and toy recommendations, a quick search on here should do the trick, or you can make a post!
Some possible tunnel versions: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07Y2FQVSD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_h6kkFb5F4GFHF My parakeets are working on this one, but I suspect it will look like a tunnel. This one is the one I'm currently using. Bird Kabob Ole'
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002G71VI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_56kkFb2ABZN91 "Playnest" version is definitely going to become a tunnel.
Edit: I don't really like the Playnest version since the outer coating is really hard when you see it for yourself in a pet store.
I've got a small travel cage that I call "the lunchbox." One tip, put a paper towel on the bottom of the cage. The vet will want a stool sample, and they will usually poop on the paper towel during the car ride. Mine is similar to this one:
The recommended bar spacing for a parakeet is half an inch. They can and WILL get out of a cage that has bars much wider than that. At this time, them getting free and getting stressed out is the last thing you want. I got my boy a big flight cage from Amazon for 130 USD. It gives him plenty of space when I'm not home and he has to stay in it. The cages at Petco and Petsmart are quite expensive from what I've noticed. I just got a cage from Petco thar I'm using for a transport cage that's maybe 1/4 the size of my flight cage and kinda low quality, but it was nearly half the price (thank goodness for price matching). Here is my guy's cage, though I don'tknow what sort of price range or space restriction you're looking at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00176F5L0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_xnUjFb517S9J0 What you should first do before that is deciding if you actually want to keep them. They require a lot more work and attention than a lot of people realize. It's highly recommended that they get free time outside of their cage, which I know isn't an option for a lot of people. But they're super curious, intelligent lil birds, and they make great additions to the right home. When I got my new guy, someone recommended that I cover three sides of their cage during the day and leave the front open so that they feel safe, but can also observe how you and your house work. If you decide that parakeets aren't for you at this time, a bird rescue will be able to help them find a home.
(Also, I totally understand the 'free' animal statement haha. I found my parakeet outside and have spent wayyyy more money than I was expecting despite him being a little turd monkey most of the time. Good luck!! 😁)
Oh goodness, these pet store people are going to get somebudgie killed. Definitely return it. Shame on them for suggesting it.
This one here is the absolute best parakeet cage, but somehow it’s out of stock on Amazon?! Maybe it’s available on another site.
Prevue Pet Products Wrought Iron Flight Cage with Stand F040 Black Bird Cage, 31-Inch by 20-1/2-Inch by 53-Inch https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00176F5L0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_iOTyEbK31MNTP
Getting Started: Clicker Training for Birds https://www.amazon.com/dp/1890948152/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_aOFEBbD1FVJ0W
I got it after I wasn’t getting enough information from YouTube videos and online resources. It never goes as smoothly as they make it seem :) progress isn’t a straight line, but persistence and patience wins in my experience.
We use this one for our two. They really seem to like having the space to fly around inside.
Prevue Pet Products Wrought Iron Flight Cage with Stand F040 Black Bird Cage, 31-Inch by 20-1/2-Inch by 53-Inch https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00176F5L0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_SZIuAbCBKM83X
Replace seeds with this and never look back:Harrisons High Potency Superfine 3 Lb https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AD83CCC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_10uIwbEYGYTT3
If your bird has an option to eat seeds, he/she will. This stuff is very nutritious compared to seeds and a lot less fattening. You only need to serve what they'll eat, so it lasts a long time. Remember to offer green veggies as well, but if your bird is hungry, they'll eat what is put out for them.
Also, the rainbow diet... I just looked it up and the pellets may be too big for your keet to recognize as food. We had this problem with other pellets but the Harrison's superfine is about the same size as millet seeds.
I have not tried the one on top. I kept the hut shaped thing available to my parakeet for 2 months and he was only willing to climb on top of it. I even put millet inside to try to lure him inside. No luck.
I've had this peek-a-boo perch... http://www.amazon.com/Super-Bird-Creations-Peekaboo-4-5-Inch/dp/B000OB2I82 for just a couple of days and he seems very interested. He did sit on the porch for a short bit. I'll have to give it more time to see if he actually loves it.