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Show : ' v- j - i j (L i r PARAKEETS can be many ; sizes and colors. : Parakeets loved in many countries It was only 140 years ago the . Australian budgerigar or parakeet made its way to Europe. Nevertheless, this little member of the parrot family has become the most loved pet bird in many countries. Contributing to its popularity are the facts that this little bird is relatively easy to tame and is remarkably competent compe-tent in imitating the human voice as well as other noises. Some budgerigars are reported to have lived up to 20 years, but they were : exceptional. A bird in captivity lives ap- proximately seven to nine years, during j six of which it may be bred. An unbred ! budgie might live for twelve or fourteen : years. Budgies are available in many color varieties, all of which have been produced pro-duced by breeders in small home : aviaries. ' Parakeets are bright birds. They can ' learn to do many things no matter what ' their color or age. It's all a matter of personalities, his and yours, and patience. pa-tience. , They are affectionate and quickly sense friendship. Therefore, gain your bird's confidence before attempting any Jessons. Once he enjoys your company, com-pany, teaching will be fun. At one time it was believed that parakeets had to be kept in pairs, that ' one left alone would pine away and die. This may be true in the case of an old bird which has mated and bred. A young bird, hand-tamed, and treated kindly, is happy with its human companions. compa-nions. Its sprightly manners and amus-: amus-: ing antics are most endearing, its ' plumage is bright, its voice pleasant, its disposition good. The bird is hardy by nature, its manners are clean, its care Is simple, and In addition to all this, it can be taught to talk. Is it any wonder that Americans, too, have taken the little lit-tle Immigrant to Its hearts? |