Thanks to their intelligence, the Australian parakeets are one of the birds preferred by people to have as pets, not only because of their great color but also because of their bright and cheerful nature, which manages to fill any home with energy. Today we dedicate a few lines to these birds, in order to learn a little more about their breeding and care.

General characteristics of Australian parakeets

Hailing from the varied fauna of Australia, the Australian parakeets, also known as common parakeets, are a type of endemic bird that belongs to the family of parrots and that have adapted perfectly to other areas of the world, such as Europe and America. In these places, they are very much required as pets because of their small size and peculiar singing.
The Australian parakeets measure just between 18cm and 20cm from head to tail and their weight is only 30-35gr. In general, they are light green and have a yellow head, although it is possible to find them in multiple color combinations such as brown, light blue, white and gray.
They have a very particular type of character that is characterized by its joy and vivacity. These birds, moreover, are very intelligent and are capable of recognizing their owner and of manifesting their desire to play. That is why Australian parakeets are so required as pets, especially by the little ones.
It is precisely because of their nature that these birds must be in the company of other similar specimens, so it is essential to raise them in a habitat that includes at least one more parakeet of the same species. When they are raised alone, they usually manifest boredom and sadness, especially when the owners are away from home.
These specimens have adapted very much to domestic life, which prevents them from surviving easily in the wild, because they would not be able to provide their own food, they would have difficulties to fly properly and would be in danger when exposed to predators.
Preparing the habitat of the parakeets
A good cage, wide enough to allow them to move easily, is the best habitat for Australian parakeets. Ideally, it should be rectangular and not circular. The basic complements that the cage should have are a feeding trough, a drinking trough and a bathtub, which should be washed every three or four days. In addition, it is important to change the sprue water daily.
It is preferable that the material of the cage is stainless steel, although aluminum can also be used. The important thing is that they are easy to clean and do not represent a danger to the animal. Inside, it is preferable that the floor has a grid that prevents the parakeets from having direct contact with their stools.
The place where the cage is located should be warm, with a temperature that oscillates between 20 ° and 25 ° C. and with enough natural light. The parakeets should be protected from the air currents and with access to the sun, although always taking care that their direct exposure will generate some sunstroke problem.

Feeding the Australian parakeets

In regard to their food, it is based on the consumption of birdseed, millet and various seeds. In veterinarians and specialized centers offer balanced meals or mixtures that are composed of a mixture of seeds enriched with vitamins and minerals, providing the necessary nutrients for the proper development of the bird.
The diet of Australian parakeets should also include moist foods such as fruits and vegetables; Foods such as carrots, spinach and lettuce are ideal to strengthen the health of these birds.
Also, it is necessary to include in your diet oily seeds and prepared with minerals that help them to have an adequate digestion. The consumption of these preparations has double benefit: on the one hand, it provides them with the minerals necessary for their development; on the other hand, it helps them to crush the seeds that are contained in their crop, improving their digestion.
Foods such as chocolate, parsley and avocado are harmful to Australian parakeets and should be avoided at all costs. In addition, the consumption of other products such as bread should be properly dosed in order to avoid any problem of overweight in the animal.

Reproduction and offspring of Australian parakeets

The breeding in pairs of this type of bird allows a better control of the broodstock and their offspring. The success of reproduction is not a complicated issue, it is only a matter of having a cage sufficiently large and special for young and incorporate a nest as it serves as an incentive for procreation.
In general, the nest is made of wood with a small hole that facilitates the entry and exit of the players. In addition, it has a door that serves to check inside if necessary. It is advisable to acquire those that are installed outside the cage, since it allows better handling.
The breeding stock, on average, between two and eight eggs, in an incubation time that ends at two or three weeks. Newborn chicks are defenseless and depend on feeding directly by their parents. After the fourth week they will be able to leave the nest.
With an average lifespan of between 4 and 6 years, the Australian parakeets are ideal as pets since they do not usually give major problems in their care, being an excellent alternative for those who want to start in the breeding of birds. Following the advice given in this mini guide, it is possible to successfully breed these beautiful birds.