If you’re wondering what is the difference between a budgie and a parakeet, you’re not alone. While these two small birds are often thought of as being the same, there are actually some key differences between them.
Here’s a look at the main distinctions between budgies and parakeets so that you can decide which is the right pet for you.
Budgie Overview
The budgerigar, also known as the common pet parakeet or just budgie, is a small, seed-eating parrot native to Australia.
Budgies are one of the most popular pet birds in the world and are known for their playful, affectionate nature. These energetic little birds are relatively easy to care for and can make wonderful pets for first-time bird owners.
- Average height (adult): 5-7 inches
- Average weight (adult): 30-40 grams
- Lifespan: 5-10 years
- Other pet-friendly: Often
- Trainability: Highly intelligent and easy to train
Types of Budgie
There are several color mutations of budgies, including blue, green, yellow, and white. There are some types of Budgie by name
- Opaline budgies
- A Spangle budgie
- Yellowface budgie
- English or Show budgies come in many colors
- A frilled budgie
Parakeet Overview
Parakeets are a type of small parrots that come in a wide variety of colors and patterns. These birds are known for their ability to mimic human speech and can make great companion pets. While parakeets are not as widely kept as budgies, they can still make stunning pets for those who are looking for a slightly more challenging bird to care for.
- Average height (adult):5-18 inches
- Average weight (adult): 40-60 grams
- Lifespan: 10-20 years
- Other pet-friendly: Sometimes
- Trainability: Intelligent and can be trained to mimic human speech
Types of Parakeet
There are many types of parakeets, the popular budgie is actually a type of parakeet. Other popular types of parakeets include the following:
- Budgerigars
- Monk parakeet
- Psittacula parakeets
- Indian ringneck parakeet
- Brotogeris parakeets
Popularity as Pets
Budgies and parakeets are both popular pets, but budgies are typically more popular due to their smaller size and lower maintenance needs. Parakeets are also more popular in certain parts of the world, such as Europe, where they are known as budgies. In the United States, however, these birds are commonly referred to as parakeets.
When it comes to popularity, there is no clear winner between budgies and parakeets. These two birds make great pets for different reasons, and it really depends on your personal preferences as to which is the better choice.
If you’re looking for a small, low-maintenance bird, then a budgie might be the right choice for you. But if you’re looking for a bird that is a little more challenging to care for and has the potential to mimic human speech, then a parakeet might be a better option.
Ultimately, the best pet for you is the one that you feel most comfortable with and can provide the best home for.
What’s the Difference Between Budgie vs Parakeet?
When it comes to budgies and parakeets, there is often a lot of confusion about the difference between the two. While they are both small, seed-eating parrots, there are actually some key distinctions that set them apart. Here’s a look at the main differences between budgies and Parakeets:
- Size: Budgies are typically smaller than parakeets, with an average height of 5-7 inches. Parakeets, on the other hand, can range in size from 5-18 inches.
- Colors and patterns: Budgies come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, while parakeets typically have green feathers with darker markings.
- Speech: Budgies are known for their ability to mimic human speech, while parakeets are less likely to learn how to talk.
- Care Needs: Budgies are relatively easy to care for and can make good pets for first-time bird owners. Parakeets require a little more care and attention and are best suited for experienced bird owners.
- Trainability: Budgies are highly intelligent and easy to train, while parakeets are also intelligent but can be more challenging to train.
So, what’s the difference between a budgie and a parakeet? While both birds make great pets, budgies are typically smaller, easier to care for, and more likely to mimic human speech. Parakeets are a bit more challenging to care for but can make great pets for experienced bird owners.
Conclusion
Though the two are similar in character and personality, there is a vast difference between them. Parakeets tend to be smaller with more colorful plumage than budgies who average larger sizes reaching up 12 inches long from their heads down while maintaining an intelligent demeanor due largely thanks at least partly because both types can talk!
