Expert: Chrys Meatyard - 10/27/2007

Question
Hi, I have had my budgie Charlie(girl) for 3 years i use to have another budgie but he flew away about 1 year ago, I would like to get my budgie a new friend I'm afraid that if i get a girl Charlie will fight but if i get a boy they will mate, What should i do?

Annibelle

Answer
Hi, Annibelle,

Well, the only other choice you have is not to buy another bird at all.  I can't make your decision for you, but...

Yes, you are correct about 2 females fighting.  Not all females fight with other females...it just depends on the individual birds involved.  Also, a lot of female keet fighting is the result of jealousy over males in the same cage, the perception by a female that another female is trying to take over her nest or eggs...these types of things.  If there are no other birds in the same cage except another female, they may get along just fine.  There are no guarantees when it comes to birds.  

Your best bet is a male, however, yes, it is possible that somewhere down the line, they will mate.  However, you can control some mating behavior by not setting up a nesting box or other nest-like items and limiting their light to 10 hours per day.  You can talk to a certified avian vet about other options that will keep a female from laying eggs.  

Chrys