The high temperatures of summer pose serious health risks not only for people but also for pet birds. Although budgerigars have various ways to cool down in their natural habitat, in the home environment their well-being depends entirely on our care and attention. In this article, we take a detailed look at effective, reliable, and easy-to-implement methods to keep your budgerigar cool during the summer months.

1. Cooling Spray Baths
   Budgerigars love cooling down in the rain in their natural habitats. Recreating this behavior at home is very beneficial. Gently spraying your bird with water using a spray bottle helps moisten its feathers and lower body temperature. Use clean drinking water at room temperature, apply it as a fine mist from above rather than directly on the face, and do it in the morning or evening rather than during the hottest hours of the day.

2. Providing a Tub or Shallow Water Dish
   Offering your bird a small, non-slippery dish with shallow water also helps it cool off. The water should not be deeper than the joint of your finger, and a towel or cloth should be placed underneath to prevent slipping. Budgerigars usually enjoy both cooling down and playing in this setup. After bathing, make sure the environment is warm and free from drafts.

3. Fan Use and Placement
   Fans can be used in the room to create air circulation; however, direct airflow toward the bird is dangerous. Budgerigars can easily become sick from drafts. Therefore, place the fan in a corner of the room, out of the bird’s reach, and use it to create indirect air movement rather than a direct breeze.

4. Cage Placement and Position
   It is very important to keep the cage away from windows that receive direct sunlight during the summer. Especially at noon, direct sunlight can be fatal due to high heat. The cage should be placed in a shaded but well-ventilated area. If necessary, use curtains or light filters to block harsh sunlight.

5. Cage Ventilation
   Do not cover the cage with cloths or sheets during summer months. Keep the top of the cage uncovered to allow natural air circulation. Ensure that airflow from open windows is gentle and continuous, not a strong draft.

6. Providing Fresh and Cool Water
   Your budgerigar’s water dish should always be filled with fresh, cool water. In summer, water heats up quickly, so it may need to be replaced several times a day. Glass or ceramic water containers keep water cooler longer compared to plastic ones. Some owners add a small piece of ice to keep the water cool, but this should be done carefully.

7. Increasing Humidity in the Environment
   Very dry air can cause feather problems and breathing difficulties in birds. Since air conditioners increase dryness in summer, humidifiers or steam machines can be used. Alternatively, placing a bowl of water near the cage can naturally increase humidity levels.

1. Watch for Behavioral Changes in High Temperatures
   When budgerigars become uncomfortable due to excessive heat, they may show behaviors such as breathing with their beaks open, sitting still without fluffing their feathers, or holding their wings slightly away from their bodies. If these signs are observed, the environment should be cooled down immediately, and the bird should be carefully monitored.

Conclusion:
Protecting your budgerigar’s health during the summer months requires a good understanding of its natural needs and sensitivities. With cooling baths, shaded cage placement, hygienic water supply, and careful air circulation, you can ensure a comfortable summer for your delicate companion. Remember: small precautions can prevent major health problems.