What Kind of Nest Does a Parakeet Need?

When most people in the United States think of pet birds, they think of the parakeet. But that is not actually the correct name for the bird that is so widely popular in homes. What we call parakeets are actually "budgerigars." The name is derived from an Aborginal word (the birds are originally from Australia). Today, parakeets are also referred to as budgies, and the two terms are often used interchangeably. When preparing to bring home a parakeet, you might have questions about proper nests and cages.

  1. Nest Box

    • A parakeet actually needs a nest only for breeding purposes. In the wild and in captivity, a parakeet will sleep on a branch in a tree or a perch in a cage. If you are providing a nest for breeding purposes, you will want to buy or construct a nest box, which is a box with a hinged top attached to the outside of a parakeet cage. The nest box should include pine shavings and a wooden insert with a concave circle at the bottom.

    Cage

    • A parakeet cage should be at least 1 1/2 feet tall, 1 1/3 feet wide and 1 1/3 feet deep, according to The Budgie and Parakeet Place. Parakeets are very active, playful birds; each one will need a good amount of space. The distance between the bars of the cage should be no greater than 1/2 inch. If the openings are any wider, the parakeet's head or body could get stuck between the bars.

    Perches

    • The perches in a parakeet's cage are important because the bird will spend a good amount of time on them. Perches should be made of wood or other natural material. Many cages will come with plastic perches, but you should replace them. Try to have perches that are different widths and materials, if possible, to exercise your parakeet's feet. You should also place the perches at different heights in the cage so your parakeet can hop from perch to perch, simulating exercise and natural parakeet behavior.

    Other Equipment

    • Your parakeet's cage should have a cup for seed and a cup for water. You will want to provide your bird with toys to keep it interested and occupied. Swings, balls and bells are some of the best toys for parakeets, according to The Budgie and Parakeet Place. The cage should also include a cuttlebone and a mineral block. Both of these items are available at pet supply stores and will provide your parakeet with needed minerals.