Almost exactly two years ago, I brought a pair of male budgies into my home and heart. As of last night, Peeka (right) and I lost our beloved brother and son, Link (left). I am working through this loss by getting Link cremated and saving his ashes in a necklace for a keepsake. Peeka, however, I am worried will get lonely when I return to a more normal school and work schedule. He was very anxious and depressed yesterday when I returned home to the surprising situation. I have spent most of the day playing with him and his mood has improved from that of last night. Since I am worried about Peeka being lonely, I have thought about 3 possibilities:
1) I get a new budgie that will eventually be able to become Peeka’s new cage mate if they get along well. Although, I am slightly against this option because it feels like replacing Link.
2) I try *ahem* flying solo with Peeka and reconsider getting another birdie buddy if I notice Peeka feeling depressed or lonely.
3) I get a different parakeet (my first thought was a cockatiel or pair of). The main reason I like this option is so Peeka could see and interact with other birds while out of his cage but it wouldn’t be replacing Link with a new cage mate.
I appreciate all and any input on this and send the best wishes out to everyone else who has lost a budgie or any other feathered friend.
Cheers <3
So sorry for your loss of Link. In my opinion your best option is 2. Spend as much time as you can with Peeka and see if he is happy as a solo budgie, you can always decide to introduce another budgie if you see that Peeka seems lonely. Budgies will be happier with another of their own kind rather than just another species of bird.
Don't think of it as replacing Link, think of it as giving another bird a loving home and Peeka a companion.
I'm very sorry for your loss of Link.
It is never easy losing one of our beloved feathered family members.
Fly high and soar freely sweet Link; rest peacefully now dear boy.
I agree with Cody 100%.
I'd recommend you take the time to bond more closely with Peeka and only bring in another budgie if/when you decide Peeka could use a new companion.
I also believe that another budgie is a much better option than a different species as Peeka will be much happier with a same species friend if/when that time comes.