How to Make Your Parakeets More Playful

There are many species of parakeets but the most common is the budgerigar, affectionately known as the "budgie," which is native to Australia. These parakeets are social and intelligent. Once they have adapted to a new home and owner, they should be naturally active, playful birds. However, they need a stimulating environment and interaction with their owners. If they spend hours cooped up in a cage and ignored, they will suffer from boredom and be less playful.

Things You'll Need

  • Toys
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Instructions

    • 1

      Make sure that your parakeets' cage is large enough. The birds should have plenty of room to move within the cage, both horizontally and vertically. A cage for a small pair of birds should be at least 39 by 20 by 32 inches.

    • 2

      Train your birds so that they will perch on your finger. Talk to them; teaching them to speak will provide a stimulating challenge and help you bond with each other.

    • 3

      Give your birds a few hours of time out of the cage each day. Allow them to perch on your shoulder as you watch TV or walk around the house. Set up a small "play stand," an area where they can perch on a stable surface and that has a few toys.

    • 4

      Keep your parakeets supplied with a variety of toys in their cage. Include toys of different colors, textures and types, such as hanging toys, a ladder, a mirror or a small plastic ball; toys that make noises, such as a bell or chime; and toys that present a challenge. Rotate the toys every few days so they don't get bored with the same one.

    • 5

      Leave the radio on for the parakeets if you work and are gone for long hours each day. The music and sound of the human voice will be company for the birds and provide stimulation.