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My budgie is moving its head weirdly. Is it choking or regurgitating?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Unknown - Bird | Male | unneutered

Since there's a letter count on this I gotta be sho.. My 8 month old male budgie sometimes has this weird head movement where he retracts and extends his neck a couple of times quickly before stopping up and doing it again. This may happen after he chews on his straw toy or if he is pinning and nibbling on my finger. This bird has been alone with us for about 3 months now but we've already started looking for a female to accompany him. I'm concerned he has something stuck in his throat?Or na?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Angel Alvarado, LVT

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on July 15th, 2018

He may be regurgitating for you. It is characterized by an up and down pumping motion of the head as you described. This is normal. Mino is trying to get food/seed up to share with you. Consider it a high compliment from your feathered friend!
As long as he is behaving normally otherwise (no lethargy, loss of appetite or loose droppings), there is likely no cause for concern.
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