If you have ever been curious about whether or not it is possible to put a new budgie with an old one, then you have come to the right place. Budgies are social creatures and enjoy the company of other budgies. In the wild, they live in flocks of up to 100 birds. When kept as pets, they should be kept at least in pairs. If you have only one budgie, it may become lonely and depressed. Adding a new budgie to your home can help alleviate this problem. Thus, this blog post explores the answer to that question and provides some helpful tips for introducing two birds successfully.
Yes, you can put another budgie in with your old budgie. Since they are both new to each other, it would be wise to stay back for some time after putting them in one place together. Allow them enough time to get acquainted with each other, and they will soon be fine and make a great companion. However, be sure to quarantine your new budgie before making it meet with the old budgie.
New birds should be quarantined for six weeks minimum. Quarantine means separate cages, rooms, and no shared air or food. Also, it would be best if you washed hands between cage visits. Quarantine is vital because it will help ensure that the new budgie is healthy and does not have any diseases that could spread to your other bird. It will also give the two birds time to get used to each other’s scent before they meet face-to-face, which would reduce the risk of aggression.
Once the new budgie has been in quarantine for at least two weeks, you can then introduce him to your other bird. Be sure to rearrange their space, so it feels more neutral territory by adding extra dishes/toys etc., but don’t forget about safety first: check on both often to ensure they don’t show aggression. If they are aggressive, separate them with cages.
How Do I Introduce a New Budgie to My Older Budgie?
The following are five tips to introduce your new budgie to the old budgie successfully:
- Cage them Close to Each Other
When you first introduce your new budgie to the old one, it is best to keep them in cages close to each other. This will give them a chance to get used to each other’s presence and smell.
You can also try placing their cages side by side to see and talk to each other. However, they might show interest in climbing to the other cage, which can be a sign of aggression. Do not let them mingle but explore while in separate cages.
- Respect Elders
Moreover, if you have more than one budgie, it is best to introduce the new budgie to the oldest one first. This way, the younger ones will not be intimidated by the newcomer. Furthermore, if the old one feels safe interacting with the newcomer, it can convince others that the newcomer is not a threat.
- Give Equal Attention
Make sure that you give both of them equal attention, so neither feels left out or neglected. When the old budgie realizes you still care for it, even in the presence of a newcomer, it will embrace the new budgie. Similarly, if the new budgie feels you are caring, it will trust you and trust other budgies that you have.
- Release the Old Budgie First
After two to three days of being caged close to each other, free the old budgie first. In most cases, your budgie would likely try and explore the cage of the newcomer. Moreover, the old budgie is likely to claim territorial leadership by pecking the enclosure of a newcomer. It’s ok and very normal, allow.
During this period, put food that both birds can share. For instance, you may use fruit or a piece of vegetable secured at the edges of the cage. If both birds show interest in sharing the meal, they are ready to bond.
- Put Both Budgies in One Cage
Using a larger cage, but both birds together. Be sure to put enough food, water, treats, and toys so they can comfortably share without feeling a sense of competition. The budgies are likely to fight and quarrel on the first day together. It’s normal and part of the bonding process. Let them be.
However, the fights should not be prolonged too much to cause severe damage. If they seem not to get together evidence by excessive feathers falling or one bird rolls and squeaks, separate them immediately. Cage them separately for 2-3 days, then repeat the process until they get used to each other.
- Time for a Sleepover
Once the birds appear to be on good terms, it’s time for a sleepover. This is the final step of introducing your new budgie to the old one. Please put them in the same cage overnight; be sure to monitor their behavior. If there are fights, separate them, then repeat introducing them. However, if they continue to get along well, you can keep them together with or without cages based on your situation.
Can You Have Two Budgies in Cage?
Never place a new budgie into an old cage or with another pair of birds. This would be like putting someone in your bedroom without permission, and it could cause tension between the birds. Please keep them in separate cages and place them side by side until you are sure they have socialized well. New budgie should enter the old budgies’ cage only after you have thoroughly followed the process of introducing new budgies.
How Big Should a Cage Be for Multiple Budgies?
The best size of cage depends on how many budgies you have. If it’s just one bird, go with a 5500-6000 cubic inch cage. But if two birds are joining their lives together, then 9000-10000 cubic inches would be more appropriate for them; this ensures plenty of room inside to move around freely without touching any bars at all. Finally, if three budgies live under one roof, an 11000-12000 cubic inch cage may be the most suitable size for the birds.
Do Budgies Do Better in Pairs?
Yes, budgies do better in pairs. The budgies will enjoy themselves with their new companion. They are friendly birds and in the wild live together as part of flocks that can reach up to 30 members. A pair feels happier than a single bird because they’re not alone all day long – but if you want more than one friend, then why not get yourself some mirrors too and create an illusion of flock?
Should I Get Another Budgie for My Budgie?
Yes, it is wise to get another feathery friend for your budgie. Many people get a budgie as their first pet, and they think that’s all there is to it, but these birds are flock animals with plenty more room in their hearts for friends. Budgies are more than ready to be a part of a flock. Make your pet happy by adding another companion and placing mirrors strategically to create the presence of a flock of budgies.