Where do parakeets come from?

The most common parakeet, the Australian budgerigar, is native to Australia. It is found throughout the continent except in the coastal areas of the extreme east and southwest. Other parakeet species are native to Australia and South America.

Budgerigars are also known as English parakeets and are very popular as pets. They have been bred in captivity since the 1850s. They are social birds and need regular interaction with other birds or human caretakers. They can be taught to do tricks, whistle and speak. Males are the better mimics. They normally live five to eight years but can live 20 years or more.