How does one choose a budgerigar from a cage full of them at a pet shop ?

Question

I am planning to buy a pet budgie and a suitable cage this weekend

Answer 1

Stand back and observe the birds for a while. A healthy budgie will be alert and active. A bird sitting on the bottom of the cage is not healthy. The vent should be clean and the eyes and cere (right above the beak, containing the nostrils) should be free of debris. It should enjoy interacting with the other budgies, and it is best to only buy from a cage where none of the animals are sick.



http://www.budgieplace.com/advanced.html - budgie care

Answer 2

first look at the obvious- the visual appearence!
look for red irritated nasal cavities, watery eyes with discharge, look at the vent (the rear end) and the rest of the feathers for signs that the bird hasnt been cleaning itself.

second, as stated before, look for a happy, allert active bird, no lethargic birds for you! birds are very good at hiding illness so look close.

third, try to get one! you dont want a bird that doesnt like you, do you? if none of them will let you grab 'em, go for the least skiddish one.

well, i wish you the best of luck!