Budgies (budgerigars, often called parakeets) are the most popular pet bird in the world, and for good reason. They make excellent pets — as long as you can meet their fairly simple needs.
Why budgies make great pets
Budgies are affordable, small, social and full of personality. They are hardy and forgiving for beginners, they can be hand-tamed into affectionate little companions, and many even learn to mimic words. For anyone wanting their first bird, a budgie is hard to beat.
What budgies need
They are easy, but not no-effort. A budgie needs the biggest cage you can fit, daily interaction (or a companion budgie), a varied diet of pellets and vegetables rather than just seed, out-of-cage time, and proper sleep. A lone budgie left in a small cage with no attention will be bored and unhappy.
Things to be aware of
Budgies live around 5 to 10 years (sometimes longer with great care), so they are a real commitment. They are small and delicate, hide illness well, and can be nippy until tamed. None of this is a dealbreaker — it is simply what to expect from a proper little pet.