Common Behavioral Issues in Budgies

Budgies can sometimes display challenging behaviors. Here, we tackle common issues and offer advice on how to manage them. 

Budgies are playful and social, but sometimes they develop behaviours that can be frustrating or worrying for owners. Understanding these common issues can help you respond with patience and find solutions that keep your budgie happy and healthy.

🪶 1. Excessive Screaming or Noise

• Why it happens: Seeking attention, boredom, fear, or stress

• How to help: Provide plenty of toys and stimulation, stick to a routine, and avoid rewarding screaming with attention

• Tip: Try gentle distraction with treats or play instead of shouting back

🦷 2. Biting

• Why it happens: Fear, territorial behaviour, lack of trust, or overstimulation

• How to help: Don’t punish; stay calm and give your budgie space. Use positive reinforcement when they are gentle

• Tip: Learn your budgie’s body language to avoid triggering bites

🪶 3. Feather Plucking or Overpreening

• Why it happens: Stress, boredom, poor diet, or health issues

• How to help: Increase mental stimulation with toys and social interaction, ensure a balanced diet, and consult a vet if it persists

• Tip: Keep your budgie’s environment calm and comfortable

🏃‍♂️ 4. Aggression Toward People or Other Birds

• Why it happens: Territorial instincts, fear, or hormonal changes

• How to help: Avoid sudden movements, don’t force interactions, and use gradual socialising techniques

• Tip: Separate aggressive birds if needed and seek advice for persistent issues

💤 5. Excessive Sleeping or Lethargy

• Why it happens: Illness, stress, or lack of stimulation

• How to help: Monitor diet and environment, increase interaction, and see a vet if lethargy continues

• Tip: Healthy budgies are active and curious most of the day

🦜 6. Escaping or Flying Away

• Why it happens: Curiosity, fear, or lack of bonding

• How to help: Supervise out-of-cage time, create a safe space, and work on bonding and recall training

• Tip: Use harness training if necessary for outdoor flights

🧠 Final Tip

Many behavioural issues stem from stress, boredom, or health problems. Understanding your budgie’s needs and responding with patience, enrichment, and love will help you prevent or manage these challenges for a happy, well-adjusted bird.