My budgie seems happy alone. Should I get her a companion bird?

I am sorry for the loss of one of your birds. Another budgie would be an option. A gradual introduction would be needed along with close monitoring to prevent aggression and injury. A larger species would not be recommended.

Hello Chanel and congratulations on your new pet. Here are some links with helpful information: https://www.petcoach.co/article/cockatiels-nymphicus-hollandicus-species-profile-coloration/ https://www.petcoach.co/article/basic-bird-care/ https://www.petsmart.com/learning-center/bird-care/cockatiel-care-guide/A0065.html https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/cockatiels---general-information A single bird is more likely to bond with it's owner BUT you MUST devote a lot of attention to it every day or it could become lonely. These are very smart birds and they need stimulation or they can develop depression and other neurosis. Two birds are more likely to bond with each other but that's not to say they won't bond with you as well. They still need stimulation but will keep each other company. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.

Poor Greenie, though bonded birds do often show signs of grief after losing a mate, not all do. While you are not seeing signs of grief in Greenie, it can be extremely difficult to determine whether a bird might be interested in another cage mate. In the wild, birds often do pair up and many of them live in large flocks so it makes sense that many house birds would want a friend, however, in the wild birds (even bonded mating pairs) do not live in such close quarters as they do in cages in our homes. Because of this, I always tell my bird owners that if they are considering adding another bird to their family, prepare for what you might do if the two do not end up getting along (you may need space for two cages, as well as twice the number of cages, bowls, toys, etc.). Even if two birds will ultimately get along I recommend owners introduce their birds on neutral territory (do not stick the new bird immediately into your other bird's cage). Spend a few days with the two birds getting to know each other outside of a cage, try different scenarios (feeding, toys, bathing, etc.) and always be on hand to make sure if they do not get along, you can be available to keep everyone safe. If things go well you can introduce them into a more neutral cage, such as the one the new bird has been in for only a few days, for short periods of supervised time, separating them at night. After a few days, if this goes well you can try them in the cage you want them to be in together long term. The key is slow a introduction, patience, and lots of praise and rewards for good behavior. Good luck, I hope this helps!

If Harley is used to having a friend I think it would be a good idea to introduce a new buddy for him. Budgies are social birds and having a friend may help with his depression over the loss of his previous one. Make sure to introduce the birds slowly, and that both will have access to food, water, perch spaces, etc without competition to ensure it goes smoothly.

HI there! I've seen you've asked this question four times now, so I'm not sure if we're not giving you the answer you are looking for, or if you're looking for some sure-thing answer that is going to happen. We've already mentioned that some birds do well on their own, as long as they have enough enrichment, so if you're not looking to get another bird that is fine as long as your bird seems OK with this. This, however, is a decision you need to make on your own, and we cannot make the choice for you.

I think Jim may be enough so you're not overcrowding the cage for now. Birds, like people, can experience grief, so Jolly is likely missing her friend Joy. You are doing the right thing by keeping her company and giving her a little extra love an attention. If she doesn't perk up, or seems lonely, even with your other bird there, adding a new friend may be a consideration, but it may be best to give her some time first.

Thanks for your question about the birds in your household. You are correct in being concerned about bonding with your bird if there is another in the house - sometimes it is more common for the birds to bond with one another than with the humans present in the household. This can be especially true with more shy species, like budgies. I would recommend using positive reinforcement for both of the birds to continue the bonding process that you have started. You can find treats that the birds like and reward them for allowing you to come near them, having them step on your fingers, etc. I would say that your sister should also be doing the same, as that will get them used to multiple people handling and interacting with them. I hope this gives you a place to start, and congratulations on your new family members!