Budgies, or budgerigars, originally hark from the green scrublands of Australia. They are one of many species of parakeet, and the first budgie was brought to Europe in 1840. Their popularity as domestic pets rose throughout the 20th century and it’s easy to see why. They make great pets as they have the beautiful vibrant plumage and the individual personality of their larger cousins but in a smaller package. These feathery friends will sing and tweet and can even learn to mimic words if trained properly. They are very intelligent animals that can form real bonds with the humans in their flock.

Beak grinding might sound bad, but this is actually the sign of a happy and contented bird. Budgies may often do this before they fall asleep. Puffed up plumage can mean a number of things. These birds can fluff their plumage in excitement, during courtship and when sleeping to keep snug.

If you see your bird lifting its wings and holding them slightly away from its body, this is its way of cooling down as birds don’t sweat. A healthy budgie’s eyes are bright and twinkly. Often when the bird sings or is really happy, its pupils will appear dilated.

If your budgie fans its tail feathers out, this can be a courtship display, or can also mean that the budgie is stressed. Fast tail bobbing indicates fear.