Why is my budgie puffed up?

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A Puffy Budgie

A budgie that sits with its feathers puffed up is normal when it is healthy. In truth, there is nothing cuter then seeing a tiny budgie with ruffled feathers on its perch chattering away. They almost look like tiny plush or wind-up mechanical toys suspended from inside a cage. Seeing a bird in this “puffed up” state is very normal and this type of behavior is beneficial to the bird as it keeps the parrot warm.

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When budgies keep their feathers slightly open, air becomes trapped and warm air is gathered between their feathers. This behavior is very similar to a person using a blanket. When air becomes trapped within the blanket and is warmed by our bodies, it traps that air to keep us warm.

These techniques allow the bird to control its body temperature. When this behavior is seen, the budgie is in a relaxed state. A healthy budgie that is calm will keep its feathers ruffled, one foot tucked inside its chest, and will keep its eyes closed.

There are times when seeing a puffed up budgie is not a good thing. When budgies become sick, they will also ruffle their feathers. This looks very similar to a healthy budgie relaxing; therefore, even more important for an owner to always be aware and observant of their bird’s behavior to ensure their pet budgie is not ill.

So how can an owner tell if their bird is in a healthy state or if it’s ill? To begin with, the owner should ensure that the bird is responsive to their presence. Many budgies will quickly tighten their feathers and become fully alert once their owners try to handle them or come into the room. If this does not happen and the budgie looks lethargic, the bird should be taken to a veterinarian. Other symptoms of an ill budgie many include the bird bobbing its tail, runny eyes, a runny nose, and diarrhea. It’s important that owners be on the lookout for these types of occurrences.

Note: If a budgie cannot be taken to a veterinarian immediately, the bird should be placed into a brooder, incubator, or be put next to a heating
lamp. These items create heat and will keep the birds warm. This is critical as this can help the bird recuperate until medical attention can be obtained. If the owner feels their budgie is sick, they should always follow their instinct and should act accordingly to ensure that their bird receives the appropriate medical care.