Parakeets: Types, Sounds, Care And Bird Cages

One of the most popular pet birds in the United States, parakeets are small or medium sized birds belonging to the parrot species. They hail from Australia, Asia, Central and South America, and Africa. Cute and pretty, parakeets have an innate charm that is appealing to all. These birds have some of the brightest colors including yellow, green, blue, violet and white, as well as wonderful combinations of these colors.

There are different types of parakeets which include both common and rare categories. More than 120 species of parakeets have been listed, and their sizes range from 6 to 18 inches. Interestingly, each species is distinguished by its unique call. The names of parakeets signify their color and general nature. There are turquoise parakeets, Conures, blue-winged and blue crowned parakeets, English budgies, Carolina parakeets, rose ringed or Hawaiian parakeets, red-capped, red-winged and red-rumped parakeets, Alexandrine parakeets, scarlet-chested parakeets, turquoise, golden-mantled, and plum-headed parakeets, Quaker or Monk parakeets, mustached parakeets, Regent, black-hooded, Indian Ringneck, Derbyan, and Eastern Rosella parakeets.

The sounds made by parakeets are interesting in their variety. These noises are characteristic chirps, warbling, ack-ack-ack sounds and squawking, among others. They produce sounds for specific purposes, usually to maintain contact with each other, and also to warn against imminent danger. Parakeets make special noises to draw the attention of baby parakeets. Intelligent by nature, pet parakeets easily imitate human speech.

Parakeets are usually kept in cages. Parakeet cages should be large enough for the birds to move around and play freely. These feathered friends love shining objects; they enjoy music and learn to sing what they hear. Housing for the birds should contain appropriate toys. Parakeets adore mirrors, rings and bells, and these can be put inside their housing. Since almost all the parakeet species take delight in climbing, small ladders, rings, and such other provisions in their cages are excellent. Besides these things, perches are also necessary. Cages have to be cleaned on a daily basis to maintain hygiene.

Parakeets have to be given special care. Wing and claw clipping is regarded as essential procedures. Parakeets are social creatures and therefore they have to be kept in pairs or in large groups. They love being talked to in a soft voice since these gentle birds are scared off by loud noise. Parakeets feed on seeds and grains; millet seeds comprise their favorite food. They can also be given moderate doses of fruits and vegetables. These may include lettuce, peas, spinach, watercress, alfalfa, celery, and carrots. Besides these, snacks and treats which contain good vitamin supplements are available in case the parakeets are not getting enough from the food given to them. It is essential that fresh and clean water be given to the parakeets, as well.

It is comparatively easy to keep parakeets as pets. However, it is essential to watch the behavior of these birds closely to ensure that they are healthy and active and not sluggish. If looked after with proper care and affection, parakeets can live up to 10 or 15 years, making a great long-time pet and friend.


Sources:
Beatty, Heather. "Your First Parakeet." Animaladventurepets.com. 16 Jan. 2008. http://www.animaladventurepets.com/Parakeets.htm
Metcalf, Mavis. "Parakeets." Bella Online-The Voice of Women. 2007. 16 Jan. 2008. http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art32257.asp
"Pick a Pair of Parakeets." A Pet's View. December 2007. A Woman's View. 16 Jan. 2008. http://www.awomansviews.com/pets/0106_parakeets.ht m

Armstrong, Veronica. "Parakeets." Suite 101.com. 24 June 2003. 16 Jan. 2008. http://www.suite101.com/article.cfm/companion_bird s/101618