Parakeet UV Light: When Is It Necessary?

Is UV Lighting Required for Parakeets?

"I have a new parakeet, and I’m wondering if I need a UV light for it. Some people say yes, and some say no. I had a parakeet as a kid but never remember having a light for it. Thank you for your time. I look forward to hearing back from you!" —Kathy

UV Exposure in Parakeets

Without details about your setup, it’s not possible to give a definite answer. If your pet’s enclosure allows access to natural sunlight, an artificial UV source isn’t necessary. (Light passing through a window is not sufficient because beneficial UVB rays are blocked by glass.)

For parakeets kept constantly indoors in a dim house or apartment, artificial UV lighting can be advantageous.

Use Artificial UV Light Sparingly

UV light contributes to bone density, but it does not maintain skin health or stop feather loss. (1) It may also help ward off certain illnesses, yet not every bird requires it.

Should you decide to get a UV light, avoid overuse—limit it to one hour per day. Excessive exposure can cause red eyes and heavy molting. Other health issues have been mentioned but remain unproven.

Natural Light Is Preferable

Whenever possible, natural light is the better choice. In fact, according to human holistic physicians who study artificial UV sources, there is some unknown factor missing from these devices. Artificial UV serves certain purposes but does not effectively trigger the daily hormone surge that humans need to prevent depression.

Birds, too, may require natural light for reasons we don’t yet fully understand. Providing an outdoor enclosed space where your bird can stretch its wings and be exposed to natural light for several hours a day would be ideal.

Can Parakeets Live Outside?

To a reasonable extent, yes. Parakeets can live outdoors provided they are not subjected to extreme heat or cold. If the temperature is uncomfortable for you, it’s also uncomfortable for your birds!

Before deciding to house your parakeets outside, consider your local climate (and monitor seasonal temperature extremes). If you choose this option, you must supply adequate shade and shelter. You should also think about covering the cage at night so that nearby streetlights don’t disrupt their sleep.

Source

(1) Spindler B, Weseloh T, Eßer C, Freytag SK, Klambeck L, Kemper N, Andersson R. The Effects of UV-A Light Provided in Addition to Standard Lighting on Plumage Condition in Laying Hens. Animals (Basel). 2020 Jun 26;10(6):1106. doi: 10.3390/ani10061106. PMID: 32604949; PMCID: PMC7341212. i.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7341212/

This article is not meant to substitute for diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, prescription, or formal and individualized advice from your veterinarian. Animals exhibiting signs and symptoms of distress should be seen by a veterinarian immediately.