Say hello to Casper the Budgie

Tell us about your Parrot

Casper is just under a year old, and is a cobalt blue dilute spangle Budgerigar. He likes tassels and loose strings, and hiding under my collar when he's tired. He also loves to shred up paper, and talk to himself in mirrors. He's a cute little fluffball, and loves to preen his beard. He sits on the curtain rail and climbs up and down the curtains too! He also hangs upside down off the lights, then dive bombs down.

Why did you choose a Budgie?

They are quite small, and not too expensive either. They're also really cuddly and cute, but they're a bit of a pain when untamed! After a week of each catching tactic, he would catch on and escape. It took us about to two months for him to react and fly back to us when we call him.

What is his favourite food?

Casper eats a half-and-half mix of Harrison’s Super Fine bird pellets which the vet recommended from Northern Parrots, and Trill. He also loves apples and leafy greens like spinach and lettuce. He also loves herby leaves, like basil and oregano.

Does he have any favourite toys?

He likes bells, and anything that makes a noise. The vet receptionist said Northern Parrots have the biggest selection, so we tried it out and Casper has loved everything! Casper also loves toys with strings or mess-making opportunities! He likes taking baths and playing in water. He also likes sharing food; so far he's tried granola, bran flakes, shreddies, pizza, bahjis and his distant relatives, tandoori chicken. .

Does he have any games he likes to play?

He enjoys talking to his keys, and chattering non-stop in front of a mirror. Casper also likes throwing bells from the top of his cage to annoy us all, because then he squawks until we pick them up. He thinks it’s really funny to dance on the keyboard, because of all the clicking sounds!

Does he speak?

Yes! We taught him to say 'Cheeseburger' and 'Budgie', but he gets mixed up and says 'cheesebudgie' instead. He also says 'I love you!' 'Gimme a biiiiiiiig kiss!' and the basics, like 'pretty Budgie' and 'hey gorgeous boy'.

Do you have advice for new Parrot owners?

Don't give up! They're a nightmare to tame, but it's worth it in the end. They're gorgeous and cuddly and sooooo sweet. A good persuasive technique is to use millet, or the seeding grasses from Northern Parrots, because they really can't resist it, and they're so cheap online!

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