Harry and Charlie are settling in well. They have been with us just over a week now and are very happy in their new home. They have even flown over to a branch near my hand to have some millett. I was just wondering how soon should I give them something to have a bath in. Our last budgie didn't enjoy water much at all, so had a wash very occasionally in his wet green leaves.

 

I know this isn't what most budgies would do so want to get it right for the boys. As they are new to us and not very old (about 3 months we think) I wasn't sure how soon we should provide a bath and the best way to do it. A commercial bath on the side or a small saucer of water on the floor? They haven't really been on the floor except by accident.

 

I really would appreciate your advice.

Thanks

Edited September 4, 201014 yr by UK girl

A water container on the floor is fine.

 

You can put it there whenever you are ready. It is more about the temperature rather than when they are ready. Ensure it is hot enough for them to dry off and not get a chill

I use a large round plant saucer as a bath and it works really well as there is room for more than one budgie. It might take them awhile to get used to it, but we find that if we splash our fingers in the water they come down to join in - its like a game to them.

 

Dave's right about the temperature, even if it's cold outside, they will still enjoy a bath if its warm inside. Also make sure the water is luke warm but not hot (I test it on my wrist - like for a baby's bottle).

 

Also if they are out of the cage, you might like to put the saucer on top of the cage (if it's got a flat top). We do this and they seem to prefer it.

Thanks folks, we have been to the shop and now have a little saucer, a bit like a plant one for them. It is nice and warm in the house, so we will see how they get on. They have had a look at the strange object in the bottom of the cage, but not ventured in. They are not overly happy with our hands yet, so not ready to join our finger in the water yet. They are happily coming to our hands for millett now though, not hesitation at all on that front!

 

They love their new big cage and are happily flying around and playing games. It is so sweet to see...

It might take them some time, but they'll become curious. It used to take 2 of mine ages (like weeks!) to get used to anything new, but they are much more adventrous now.

 

A suggestion - when you put the saucer in the cage, splash the water a bit to get their attention and then leave them alone. The sound of spalshing water gets my birds attention and they go an investigate. Best of luck!