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Australian parakeet (10) - Crossword Clue
Answer: BUDGERIGAR
The Australian parakeet crossword clue refers to the budgerigar, one of the world's most popular pet birds and a beloved native species of Australia.
This small, colorful parakeet is commonly known as a "budgie" and has been a favorite household companion for generations due to its friendly nature and ability to mimic human speech.
Understanding the Budgerigar
- Budgerigars are small parrots native to the arid regions of Australia, where they live in large flocks across grasslands and open woodlands.
- In the wild, these Australian parakeets display vibrant green and yellow plumage with distinctive black markings on their wings and back.
- The name "budgerigar" is believed to derive from an Aboriginal word, possibly meaning "good food" or "good bird," reflecting the species' significance in Australian culture.
Why "Australian Parakeet" Points to Budgerigar
- Crossword constructors use "Australian parakeet" as a clue because budgerigars are the most recognizable small parrot species originating from Australia.
- While Australia is home to several parakeet species, the budgerigar stands out as the most internationally known due to its popularity as a pet bird worldwide.
- The 10-letter constraint perfectly matches BUDGERIGAR, making it an ideal crossword answer.
- The term "parakeet" refers to small to medium-sized parrots with long tail feathers, and budgerigars fit this description precisely.
- Their Australian origin makes them distinct from other common parakeets like ring-necked parakeets or monk parakeets found in other regions.
Tips for Solving Similar Crossword Clues
- Look for geographic indicators: When a clue mentions a specific country or region like "Australian," it narrows down possible answers significantly. Australia-related bird clues often point to budgerigars, cockatoos, or kookaburras.
- Count the letters carefully: The number in parentheses (10) is crucial. If you're considering "budgie," remember that's only 6 letters—the formal name BUDGERIGAR contains the full 10 letters required.
- Consider alternative names: Many animals have both common and scientific names. Budgerigars are casually called "budgies," but crosswords often prefer the complete formal name for longer answers.
- Use crossing letters strategically: If you've solved intersecting clues, use those confirmed letters to verify your answer. The unique letters like "G" and "R" in BUDGERIGAR can help confirm the solution.
- Remember pet bird popularity: In crosswords, "parakeet" clues typically refer to the most common species people recognize, and budgerigars are among the world's most popular pet birds.
Australian parakeet (10) - 7 Little Words - FAQs
Q: Why is it called a budgerigar and not just a budgie?
A: "Budgerigar" is the bird's proper common name, derived from Aboriginal Australian language. "Budgie" is simply an affectionate shortened version used in everyday conversation, similar to how "refrigerator" is shortened to "fridge."
Q: Are budgerigars and parakeets the same thing?
A: Yes and no. Budgerigars are a specific species of parakeet. "Parakeet" is a general term for small to medium parrots with long tails, while "budgerigar" identifies this particular Australian species specifically.
Q: How do I know if a crossword wants BUDGERIGAR or another Australian bird?
A: The letter count is your best guide. BUDGERIGAR fits 10-letter spaces, while other Australian birds like COCKATOO (8), KOOKABURRA (10), or EMU (3) fit different patterns. The word "parakeet" specifically indicates a small parrot, not larger birds.
Q: Can budgerigars really talk like larger parrots?
A: Yes! Budgerigars are excellent mimics and can learn extensive vocabularies. Some budgies have been recorded knowing over 1,000 words, making them among the best talking birds despite their small size.
Q: Why do crossword puzzles use the full name instead of "budgie"?
A: Crossword constructors prefer BUDGERIGAR for longer answer slots because it provides 10 letters with good letter variety for creating intersecting words. Shorter clues typically use "budgie" for 6-letter answers.
