You watch in horror as your beloved parakeet flies through the open door. Follow quickly and try to keep him in your sight. Pet parakeets usually tire easily, although they may travel up to a mile if they catch a wind current to ride on or if they're frightened. Keeping your pet in sight is your best chance for recovering him quickly.
He Lands Out of Reach
You can see your parakeet, but you can't reach him. Approach the area slowly and use caution not to scare him away. If your budgie is trained to fly to you, a favorite treat may be enough to entice him to land on you. Otherwise, have someone bring his cage to the area, along with treats and a favorite toy. Leave the cage door open and step away to a hidden area that you can see from. Thirst, hunger or the security of home may send him into his cage.
You Lose Sight of Him
If you lose sight of your parakeet, don't panic and don't give up. Take notice of where you last saw him and which way he was headed. Call to him intermittently, listening carefully for his chirp. Search visually in a circular area around where you last saw your budgie. Parakeets often land in a nearby tree or shrub, hiding in the leaves. Describe your pet and give your contact information to people in the neighborhood.
Bring a Friend
If you have a second parakeet, bring him to the area where you last saw your lost bird. Set his cage on the ground, and place an open cage containing food and water next to it. Walk to where your parakeet can't see you, but you can see the cages. Your caged pet will call out, and if your missing parakeet is nearby, he will answer the calls and, hopefully, come looking for his friend.
If He Remains Unseen
If, despite your best efforts, your parakeet remains lost, don't give up. Notify animal control, the SPCA, the Humane Society, and local veterinarians, pet shops and zoos. Call your local radio station and your local police department to report your missing pet. You can make and distribute fliers, look in your local newspapers for found ads and place your own lost pet ads. Parakeets look to humans when they're tired and frightened, so get the word out.
References
Photo Credits
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Writer Bio
Karen Mihaylo has been a writer since 2009. She has been a professional dog groomer since 1982 and is certified in canine massage therapy. Mihaylo holds an associate degree in human services from Delaware Technical and Community College.
