To those who have had a parakeet coming to their bird feeders, we kept
parakeets for years. Here a few suggestions:
Putting out a bird cage with seed inside the cage is the best idea. You'll
need to check the cage from time to time to be sure other birds (or squirrels!)
haven't gotten inside. A simple larger cage containing nothing but food and
water is better. Borrow a cage if you don't have one, but don't use a parrot
cage, as the bars are spaced so far apart that small birds fit between them.
If a parakeet/budgie hasn't been outside too long, it may come to you with
encouragement. Hold out your hand with index finger extended (as though you
were pointing at the bird). You can say "up" or "come." A bird that remembers
its training may land on your finger or opt for your shoulder or even your
head. Talk quietly to it and move slowly but steadily inside.
Another option is to sit quietly outside as close to the bird feeder as wild
birds will permit. The parakeet won't feel as threatened and may come to you
or land on you.
A bird or butterfly net is a possibility, but once you attempt to use it, all
the birds will be wary. Parakeets don't fly well when they are wet. They will
seek a roost before it gets dark and will not fly at night unless startled.
Good luck and don't give up!
Barbara Farron
Springfield, VA
