First time budgies

Question
Hello, I'm getting my first pair of budgies from the humane society. I've never owned budgies before. I have some questions:
- Would a boy window be a suitable spot for their cage?
- how often do we visit the vet?
- if they had previous owners, how do you tame them?
- is covering their cage at night recommendable?
Hopefully I didn't overwhelm you! thanks!

Answer
Hello Natalia,

Congratulations! Owning budgies is very fun and enjoyable!

I don't recommend putting the budgies directly in front of the window, but by or near the window is ok. You do need to make sure that they are not getting direct sunlight and that it is never too cold or too hot for them.

You really do not need to visit the vet often. Only if you suspect that the birds are sick or injured. You can't really get them shots and as long as the birds are on a good healthy diet, you shouldn't have any problems.

Taming takes a lot of determination and patience. If the birds are not already tame you should start by just placing your hand in the cage with a treat. Do this everyday for about 10-15 minutes. They will soon learn that you are not going to harm them. Once they are comfortable with this you could try gently pressing your finger against their chest and have them try to step up. If they are still scared go back to just having your hand in the cage. If it works, let him sit on your finger until he gets off. Do the same thing the next day.

Yes, definitely cover their cage at night. This tells them that it is time for bed and it will help them to stay calm and quiet. Budgies should get at least 9-12 hours of sleep every night.

GOOD LUCK! HOPE EVERYTHING WORKS OUT FOR YOU AND YOUR NEW FRIENDS!

Echo Starr