Laurie-Anne

I'm sorry, I should have been more specific - the vet said she is sexually mature, probably around a year old, definitely more than 11 weeks (I snorted there), and likely between eight and twelve months, though after twelve months it is more difficult to tell for sure. The genetics were advised from a breeder, essentially she was saying there was probably a bit of various lines in her, meaning there could be clearwing and greywing somewhere in her bloodline, as well as saddleback (her feathers are really really washed out on the middle of her back, but it had to be pointed out to me), a bit of spangle based on colour distribution...... Basically she said without the breeders bloodlines she figures that Pipsqueak is a "mutt". I will be talking to the lady with whom I board my 'tiel (and now Pipsqueak), as she bred budgies for decades, and is very well versed in genetics - she will likely see Pipsqueak in the next few weeks, and I will likely get a more definitive answer after she examines Pipsqueak. The vet clinic is actually well respected, as are the vets - it is an avian clinic, not a generic vet's (did that once, only once - I have a choice so no more). It's hard to tell in pictures, even her colouring is a bit different in the pictures than in real life. I do appreciate the feedback. Thank you.

Well, the visit to the vet was today, turns out Pipsqueak is a year old (maybe more), and it would seem she is a clearwing-greywing-saddleback-spangle-violet In other words, she's a mutt Which is fine with me, she's very pretty and rather clever, so I'm good with it.

Hello June! I don't breed budgies, but I landed on this site for the same reason you did - it had the most information (pertinent information, that is), and the people seemed wonderful. I look forward to hearing about your chicks. L.

Yes, and the iris rings, which I didn't clue into until I took the picture. And thanks for the welcomes!

The two perches are right next to each other, and she'll scoot along the skinny one to get to the fat one. She did freeze yesterday, but today she's bit more mobile, jumping onto my finger (which I certainly didn't expect so soon, but hey - I'll take it!) The foot exercise is exactly why I put four perches of four different sizes and textures in her cage. My 'tiel has 8 perches, some wood some rope, all different - that's where I learned it. She's used to a flat bottom home, so I was wondering if that could have an impact as well - the skinny one might be too cramping for her feet if she's not used to it? Thanks!

My new little girl (?) has been home for about 24 hours. I have several perches in her cage of differing sizes. The one I had expected her to prefer is a small one that comes with most small bird cages, but the one she seems to prefer is an inch in diameter - I know it's meant for larger birds, but wanted her feet to have the variety. My question is: Would it be "normal" for a young budgie to prefer the larger perch, or is she maybe just still trying to settle in? Many thanks in advance. L.

I had my suspicions about her age, everything I was reading about the head stripes, the cere, etc. Thanks

Greetings from Western Canada. (I note there are others from the area on here as well). I have, just today, brought home my first budgie in 25 years. I have a cockatiel, and we decided to get him a buddy. They will not be housed together, but after the quarantine period is done they will be in the same room. She (assumption) is supposed to be about 11 weeks old, she is not tame but doesn't freak out when my hand is near her or I stroke her back (gently) or her beak, so that's a good start. I've been browsing through many of the areas of the forum, and am thankful that so many knowledgeable people are willing to share - things have changed a great deal in 25 years and I'm glad I found this place. Pictures follow - (s)he isn't nearly as blue as they show - she's more of a dove grey with a hint of blue on her belly and cheeks. Any input as to her possible genetic makeup would be gratefully accepted Natural light: With flash: Side shot!