A budgie with a tail down may be indicating that they are not feeling well. This could be due to a number of factors, such as:
1) Illness or injury: A sick or injured budgie may have a tail down as a sign of weakness or discomfort.
2) Stress or anxiety: Budgies can also exhibit a tail down when they are stressed or anxious. This could be due to changes in their environment, such as the introduction of a new bird, or to other stressors, such as loud noises or excessive handling.
3) Lack of sleep: Budgies need around 10-12 hours of sleep per day. If your budgie is not getting enough sleep, they may appear lethargic and have a tail down.
4) Nutritional Deficiencies: A diet that is lacking in certain nutrients, such as calcium or vitamin B12, can also cause a budgie's tail to droop.
5) Old age: As budgies age, they may experience a gradual decline in their overall health and mobility, which can lead to a tail down.
6) Mating Behavior: A budgie may also temporarily hold their tail down when mating or when performing a "courtship display" to attract a partner.
Comfort and Relaxation
In some cases, a budgie with a tail down may simply be comfortable and relaxed. This is especially common when they are perched in a comfortable spot, such as their favorite perch or inside their nest box.
If you are concerned that your budgie's tail is down due to a health concern, it is important to take them to a qualified avian veterinarian for evaluation and treatment.