How long do Parakeets Live? (Parakeets Lifespan)

Last Updated on July 6, 2023 by Ali Shahid

Parakeets are a group of small to medium-sized long-tailed parrot species commonly kept as pets with budgies being the most common pet parakeets. In case you’re thinking of adopting one, you’re probably wondering

How long do parakeets live?

Parakeets live between 7 and 25 years. Some can even reach the age of 30 plus in captivity thanks to appropriate care, cleanliness, a healthy diet, and protection from predators. However, wild animals have a longer lifespan than those kept in captivity, which is unusual when compared to other species of birds. In captivity, other species of birds and animals live longer.

In this article, I will tell you about the lifespan of different parakeets. I will also enlist some factors that can affect the lifespan of your beloved parakeet and what you can do to enhance its lifespan. Sound interesting? So continue reading to have valuable information necessary for adopting parakeets.

The average lifespan of a parakeet is seven to twenty-five years. Many factors influence this number, including the quality of breeding and overall care in captivity. In the wild, many parakeets live longer than they do in captivity, an observation that is not common for other species of birds. 

In the wild, parakeets can live for well over ten years on average and sometimes live for more than 20 years. It is common for most animals in captivity to live longer than they would in the wild. However, many pet retailers and pet suppliers unfairly treat parakeets. 

If you are considering purchasing a parakeet, you should search for a reputable breeder. Because of inbreeding or improper care, many parakeets live longer in the wild than they would in captivity.

However, with proper care, parakeets can live much longer than they usually do. This is evident from the lifespan of the longest-living parakeet named Charlie who lived for 29 years. Your parakeet can live beyond the average lifespan in captivity if you buy it from a reputable breeder and give it good care.

Here is a list of the lifespan of different parakeets:

Budgie: 5-8 years Golden Parakeet: 20-25 years Green-Cheeked Parakeet: 10-20 years Ring-Necked Parakeet: 30-35 years Monk Parakeet: 15-20 years Alexandrine Parakeet: 35-40 years Canary-Winged Parakeet: 12-15 years Lineolated Parakeet: 10-20 years Mustache Parakeet: 20-25 years Sun Conure: 15-30 years Plum-Headed Parakeet: 15-20 years Plain Parakeet: 18–20 years

Lifecycle of Parakeets

Hatchlings

As soon as a parakeet hatch, it is regarded as a hatchling until it reaches the age of ten days. In addition to being naked and having their eyes closed, they are completely helpless.

Their mother is entirely responsible for keeping them warm and their mother feeds them regurgitated food. Approximately ten days after hatching, the birds open their eyes and begin to grow feathers.

In this case, a young parakeet is called a nestling, and it depends completely on its parents for its survival. Eventually, the small birds develop into fledglings that can walk and flutter. Around three to four weeks after hatching, they begin to become more independent.

Juvenile

At the age of eight weeks, parakeets are considered juveniles. A pre-adolescent bird resembles an adult bird, but it is smaller and does not have all of the colors of an adult bird.

During this period, the young birds have the opportunity to leave the nest and raise themselves independently. Due to their feathers, they do not require as much care as younger birds, do not require formula, and are capable of feeding themselves solid food on their own.

Young Adult

A parakeet is considered a young adult when he or she is approximately six months to two and a half years of age. The young adult parakeet is very energetic, enjoys playing, and is more willing to try new foods than other parakeets.

Despite being completely independent, they enjoy spending time with other birds and their owners. Until the age of eight months, they may appear to be full-grown adults, but their eyes may be dark gray.

Adult

 The adult parakeet is fully feathered and readily selects mates and lays eggs. Parakeets usually reach this stage in their lives between the ages of two and a half and six. During their prime, adult parakeets are just as likely to enjoy playing as their younger counterparts.

Senior

A parakeet may reach senior status between the ages of four and fifteen years, depending on the species. When budgies reach the age of four (females), and six (males), they become seniors.

Parakeets at this stage are much less energetic, vocalize less, eat less, fly less, and sleep more than before. In addition, it is possible that new feathers may not grow back as quickly as the old ones or the new ones may not grow at all.

 End of life

Toward the end of its life, a parakeet may appear more energetic, turn to its owner more often, or consume more food. Additionally, a favorite toy may suddenly become the focus of its attention. Unfortunately, this behavior is likely to result in a parakeet’s death if it is already quite old.

Factors Affecting Parakeets’ Lifespan

Genetics

A parakeet may inherit health issues from its parents, resulting in suffering and a shorter life span. They can develop cancerous tumors in their reproductive organs as well as in their kidneys.

If a parakeet is born with a weak immune system, it may be more susceptible to infectious diseases. Furthermore, since they tend to be smaller and more fragile than others, they become easy targets for predators.

A bad diet

Seeds are the primary food source for many wild parakeets. The problem is, domestic birds do not respond well to seed-based diets due to their high-fat content.

Air quality

The lungs of all birds are extremely sensitive. In certain cases, things that are not harmful to us may prove fatal to them. Keep cigarettes, perfumes, non-stick pans, air fresheners, candles, bug spray, and anything else that emits odors or fumes away from your parakeet.

 Small cages

Parakeets of all sizes require a lot of space to fly. It is likely that your bird will become obese and have atrophy of the muscles if it cannot move.

No outside cage time

The parakeet must have access to the outdoors for several hours each day to prevent obesity. Also, the bird can socialize with its owner and is not subjected to stress due to boredom.

Safety

It is not unusual for parakeets to be overly curious and can often cause trouble for themselves. Keep your parakeet away from open windows, hot stoves, and other hazardous areas.

No socialization

People often overlook the fact that parakeets are social animals that are naturally found in large flocks. Parakeets thrive when they are social with other parakeets and their owner. In the absence of attention, they will deteriorate.

Lack of mental stimulation

To avoid boredom and stress, parakeets require plenty of mental exercises. The time spent outside the cage, as well as the play with (puzzle) toys and other new and exciting things, is extremely beneficial.

Health Care

Some parakeet owners believe it is not worthwhile to take their birds to the veterinarian when they become ill since buying another bird is less expensive. It is not a mindset I am fond of. Get a veterinary check-up every year and keep the phone number of an avian veterinarian handy.

Some Common Causes of Parakeets Death

The circle of life applies to your parakeet in the same way that it applies to other pets. Despite the unpredictability of nature, we can be aware of the situations that can lead to a pet’s death.

Wild parakeets are most commonly killed by predators. A parakeet is a small bird, so larger birds such as falcons and eagles are often attracted to them.

Furthermore, their eggs and young are at risk from snakes and monkeys which climb up trees to feed on them.

Food poisoning and household fumes are two of the most common causes of premature death among parakeets kept in captivity. These birds are poisoned by caffeine, chocolate, fruit pits, avocados, onions, garlic, and apple seeds.

Furthermore, if you use everyday household products for cleaning or other purposes, your parakeet may become ill or die as a result.

Many items should be avoided, including scented candles, incense, aerosol cleaners, lead paint, and air fresheners.

Parakeets can also die suddenly from accidents. Occasionally, a loud noise may awaken them during the night, causing them to be distressed.

They often fly around hysterically when these night frights occur, especially when there are no lights to assist them.

If you wish to prevent parakeets from suffering from night frights, make sure they have access to light during the night.

How to Increase the Lifespan of Parakeets

Be aware of stress signs

Parakeets are small birds with a tendency to be nervous. However, they are not afraid to express their feelings. Through their chatter, behavior, and eating habits, they frequently demonstrate signs of stress and nervous energy.

Stress can have a detrimental effect on the lifespan of your pet parakeet, so you should pay attention to the signs of stress in your parakeet. Make sure your parakeet is not kept in an area of high traffic or fluctuating temperatures, and that your household is not overly chaotic. 

Two parakeets are better than one

Parakeets’ high level of social behavior is partly because they spend time with their parents and siblings. Therefore, two parakeets may be more appropriate than one.

When they are not alone, they often feel safer in the company of other birds. It is more likely for a parakeet to live a long and happy life if it has a sibling or friend. Even though one parakeet can survive in a home, if left alone, it will likely become bored, depressed, and agitated. 

Provide a Well-balanced Diet

An adequate supply of fresh water and a balanced diet are essential for all pet birds. Healthy diets that include fruits and vegetables are ideal, and fortified treat sticks provide additional variety and nutrition. To make drinking water easier, a clean bottle should be available.

Promote physical activity and exercise

The physical and mental health of parakeets requires plenty of exercise. To stimulate the mind, provide a variety of toys, or select a portable activity center for climbing fun.

Create a safe environment

A pet parakeet can be kept safely in a cage that provides ample room for movement and should be placed away from vents or drafts. Pets, such as cats and dogs, should also be kept away from the bird.

Spend time with your pet

A parakeet is a social animal that enjoys interacting with the members of its family. Your parakeet needs mental stimulation and exercise, so practice tricks and training with them and spend time with them.

Schedule regular vet visits

It is essential to have your pet parakeet examined by an avian veterinarian on an annual basis. Whenever your bird seems to be off, schedule a visit with your veterinarian who has experience with parakeets so that illnesses or injuries can be caught as soon as possible.

When cared for carefully, pet parakeets can live long, healthy, fulfilling lives, and they can enjoy being members of your family for a lifetime. 

Conclusion

Whether in captivity or the wild, parakeets can easily live quite long lives. To maintain their health, you must provide them with the appropriate level of care and hygiene. The diet of any living organism is of utmost importance.

There are times when it is unavoidable for your parakeet to become ill, regardless of how well you care for him. You can also influence their life expectancy based on your response and care when they are ill.

When your pet Parakeets are well cared for, their life expectancy can be increased by up to 20 years.