how can I tell when the babies are ready to leave mum? te eldest ones are sometimes sitting in the entrance of the nesting box, but I haven't seen them leave the box yet. I don't really know how old the eldest one is, but all his feathers seem to be there (As opposed to the youngest which still looks like a chick)

Hi and Welcome.

 

The babies generally begin to fledge (make short trips out of the nest box) at about 4 - 5 weeks. They will learn to crack seeds and how to eat different types of food from dad for a week or so after they leave the box for good. Most babies are ready to go to new homes at about 6 - 8 weeks of age. Make sure before you give them to a new owner they have been eating on their own for about 10 days.

 

How many babies do you have?

They'll decide themselves. Usually at about 6 weeks, but sometimes longer. The eggs all hatch 2 days apart, so that's why they all look different

Thank you all for your help, Generally it wouldn't be a problem how long they stay (Since I only breed enough to keeep the avery stocked), however I had a friend ask for one as a pet. and I have very little knowledge of budgies. :feedbirds:

A good idea is to put a small amount of seed or a millet spray in the nest box so that they can practice. You usually find it gone very quickly.