The budgerigar is a small parrot of inland Australia. In the wild it lives in huge, nomadic flocks, and in captivity it has become one of the world’s favourite pets.
Interesting facts
- Wild budgerigars are always green and yellow; other colours come from captive breeding.
- It is one of the most popular pet birds in the world.
- Budgerigars can see ultraviolet light, and parts of their plumage glow under it.
- A budgerigar named Puck held a world record for knowing over 1,700 words.
- Wild flocks are nomadic, following rain and seeding grasses.
- Males usually have a blue cere, the patch above the bill.
Behaviour
Budgerigars are highly social and gather in flocks that move across the outback in search of food and water. They are active by day and chatter constantly.
Breeding and young
Budgerigars breed quickly when conditions are good, nesting in tree hollows and laying four to six eggs.
Threats and conservation
The species is abundant, although droughts and heatwaves can kill large numbers.
Where to see it
- Central Australia around Alice Springs after rain
- Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
- Sturt National Park, New South Wales
- Outback waterholes in the early morning
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
