How to Hand Raise Baby Budgies

Budgies (parakeets) are among one of the most widely kept parrot species in the world. They can learn to talk like their larger cousins and they can be taught to do tricks. They are ideal for anyone who doesn't have the required space for the larger species. Many enthusiasts discover that they want to try their hand at breeding these small companion birds. Getting budgies to breed is actually quite easy, but if something happens and the parents no longer can take care of the babies then it is up to the owner to take over the parental duties.

Things You'll Need

  • Shoebox
  • Cloth rags
  • Electric heat pad
  • Baby bird food formula
  • Small plastic syringe
  • Bird cage
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Instructions

    • 1

      Line a shoebox with a layer of rags. These rags can be washed every couple of days as needed. The cloth of the rags will absorb liquid from waste and food which will prevent the young babies from sitting in moisture and getting sick.

    • 2

      Place the shoebox in a draft free area and place the heating pad under it. Set the heating pad to a maximum temperature of 98 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the approximate temperature that they would be if they were being raised by their parents.

    • 3

      Using the baby bird formula and the syringe, feed the baby budgies once every two hours when they are one week old. Feed once every three hours when they are two weeks old, every four hours at three weeks old, and every four to five hours at four weeks old. At about six weeks of age they will start trying to wean themselves so some fresh fruit and vegetables should be supplied daily along with some standard budgie seed.

    • 4

      Remove any formula from each babies beak and feet after each feeding. This is important because the babies grow at an amazing rate and can become crippled if the formula hardens on the beak or feet during their growth spurts.

    • 5

      Place the babies in a normal cage once it becomes evident that they are eating food on their own. At this point they may still beg for formula on occasion so make sure to keep it handy for at least another month.