by Carrie Burrows

Created on: November 29, 2008   Last Updated: December 23, 2008

Parakeets are highly intelligent little birds who are capable of mimicry. A parakeet owner should keep in mind that parakeets are members of the parrot family, and like parrots, will only mimic sounds that entertain them. A parakeet cannot be forced to learn specific sounds or phrases; they pick and choose what they like!

Parakeets need interaction and stimulation. They are very social creatures and should be kept in a room where people and other pets congregate, such as the living room. They also need a variety of toys and a well-balanced diet. A talking bird is a happy bird! Parakeets usually begin mimicking within their first two years of life. Frequently talking to your young bird will pique its interest in human speech. Reading to your bird and leaving the television or radio on while you are out of the home will also help it learn new sounds.

While it can be fun to live with a "talking" bird, it should not be the only reason you have a bird in your home. Each bird has its own unique personality and quirks, and mimicry should be considered just the icing on the cake. Parakeets are wonderful companion animals whether or not they learn to copy our language.

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