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Found a parakeet: Is it wild or sick? Why is it sleeping so much?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Parakeet | Male | unneutered

I just found a young moustached parakeet (or maybe a derbyan parakeet) 2 days ago.How do I know if it is from captivity or from the wild?And it is not afraid when I put my finger near him and does not bite.AND IMPORTANTLY he sleeps a lot and stays on the bottom of the cage...I think it can be because of too much flying and just needs rest.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Todd Cecil

Veterinarian

Published on April 7th, 2019

Thanks for reaching out. Rarely are wild parakeets nice and handleable. If sleeping a lot, might be sick or malnourished. Try offering food, supply heat support. If still lethargic by tomorrow, seek veterinary help at clinic.
Good luck.

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on May 14th, 2020
It may be normal for an active bird or if it is warm in the house. It can also be an early sign of illness or injury. Birds are quite adept at concealing both until the condition is quite serious. Monitor for loss of appetite, loose droppings or perching low in the cage while puffed up. These are symptoms that should be addressed by your veterinarian or an experienced avian vet.
You can keep them at room temp and prevent or limit stress as much as possible. Provide fresh food and water daily.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on December 16th, 2016
Cali is showing general symptoms of disease, possibly due to a gastrointestinal problem although from these symptoms I couldn't tell what it could be. You need to take him to an avian vet quite urgentl as parakeets usually deteriorate very rapidly once they start showing symptoms of disease.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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