Budgerigar has a bright green plumage on the chest and the wings are a mix of green with black. The heads of the budgerigar has black lines covering a yellow head.

Some budgies have been bred down in size but with a greater number of color mixes. They are generally "aviary bred" in groups, and are referred to as American Budgies. Others have been selectively chosen and bred up, with a more pronounced forehead and larger overall size. These birds are referred to as English Budgies. Both American and English budgies are the same birds, but bred differently for different purposes.

Younger birds have the lines down the forehead of the bird, and the eye is entirely black (except for albinos). As the bird matures the lines receed on the forehead, and a white ring forms around the 'pupil' of the eye.

Female birds have a brownish cere. The males have a deep blue cere. The color only appears after the bird is about 6 months old.

A few budgies can be taught to talk, but not all will. A big factor in the birds talking is hand-raising. Hand raised birds are more likely (but not guarenteed) to speak. Budgies can be excellent pets if they are treated with love and attention. The budgie is often under estimated as a pet.

The budgie is a quiet bird compared to other birds. Many budgie owners however, say that a budgie can be loud.