Expert: Chrys Meatyard - 11/14/2006

Question
I bought my first bird, a budgie, a couple days ago and not sure what to expect. He has a lot of black bars on his head and so I know that he is young, probably about 3 months.

He doesn't move around his cage or play with his toys. He is also silent, no chirping or singing at all. I have taken him out of his cage numerous times, and he is very good about getting on my finger and laddering. But I'm still worried about his health due to the fact he is not moving around on his own or making any noise.

I know that he is nervous and adjusting, but how soon should I expect to notice more activity out of him? I'm in and out of the room where his cage is located, so he's exposed to activity from the family, including a cat and two dogs who are dying for his attention. I have allowed them in the room several times but only for a few minutes and then the door is remained shut when I am not in there to watch them.

Thanks, your thoughts are greatly appreciated.  

Answer
Hi, Shannon.  Thanks for posting and congrats on your new budgie!

Yes, your bird is young with the black bars on it's head.  It's also too young to sex yet.  Since you've only owned this bird for a couple of days, I think you are expecting too much from him/her right now.  S/he needs to get used to it's new surroundings in your home and get used to you first before s/he does much of anything.  Give it some time!  This adjustment time is an individual thing, i.e., I can't predict how long it will take for him/her to settle in.  However, young birds usually settle in a lot quicker than older birds.  

I recommend you keep the cat and dogs separate from your new bird.  They are natural enemies and all 3 probably can't wait to get the chance to "get to know" your new budgie better.  And I don't mean this in a good way!

Come back with any additional questions/concerns.

Chrys