When Is the Right Time to Bring a Baby Budgie or Cockatiel Home?
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Bringing home a new feathered friend is exciting, but timing is everything! A baby budgie or cockatiel needs to be at the right age and stage of development before joining their forever family.
At Nurtured Nests, we specialise in raising hand-tamed budgies and cockatiels across Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Redlands. Here’s how to know when your new bird is ready to come home.
What Does “Fully Weaned” Mean?
A baby bird is fully weaned when it can eat solid foods – like seeds, pellets, and fresh veggies – without needing hand-feeding.
For most:
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Budgies: Ready at 6–8 weeks old
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Cockatiels: Ready at 8–12 weeks old
Why Age Matters
Bringing home a bird too early can be stressful for the chick and challenging for new owners. Fully weaned birds are healthier, easier to bond with, and more confident in their new home.
Signs a Baby Bird Is Ready for a New Home
✅ Eating solid foods on their own
✅ Curious and active
✅ Comfortable around people
✅ Fully feathered and able to perch confidently
How Nurtured Nests Prepares Your Bird
All our budgies and cockatiels are:
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Hand-raised and socialised daily
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Fully weaned before going to their new home
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Used to being handled, making bonding easier for you
Ready to Meet Your Feathered Friend?
If you’re looking for hand-raised baby budgies or cockatiels in Brisbane, Gold Coast, or Redlands, Nurtured Nests is here to help you find your perfect companion.
Check out our available birds and bring home your feathered forever friend today!