Common Budgie Health Issues & How to Keep Your Pet Safe

 Budgies are hardy and resilient birds, but like all pets, they can suffer from various health issues if not cared for properly. As a responsible owner, understanding common illnesses, recognizing early symptoms, and providing preventative care can help your budgie live a long and happy life.

This guide covers common budgie health issues, their causes, symptoms, and how to prevent them.

General Signs of Illness in Budgies

Budgies are masters at hiding illness—a survival instinct that prevents them from appearing weak to predators. As a result, owners must be vigilant in spotting early warning signs.

Symptoms of a Sick Budgie

If you notice any of the following signs, your budgie may be unwell:

• Fluffed-up feathers for long periods (often indicates illness)

• Lethargy or lack of movement

• Loss of appetite

• Watery, discolored, or abnormal droppings

• Labored or heavy breathing

• Sneezing or nasal discharge

• Weight loss or sudden puffiness

• Weak grip when perching

• Closed or swollen eyes

• Excessive feather plucking

If these signs persist, consult an avian veterinarian immediately.

Common Budgie Health Issues

Respiratory Infections

Budgies are susceptible to respiratory illnesses, often caused by bacterial, viral, or fungal infections.

Causes:

• Poor air quality (cigarette smoke, strong chemicals, Teflon fumes)

• Cold drafts or sudden temperature changes

• Dust accumulation in the cage

Symptoms:

• Wheezing or clicking sounds when breathing

• Tail bobbing while breathing

• Discharge from the nostrils

• Open-mouth breathing

Prevention & Treatment:

• Keep the cage away from drafts and smoke

• Maintain good ventilation but avoid direct airflow

• Keep the cage clean to reduce dust buildup

• If symptoms persist, seek veterinary attention

Feather Plucking & Self-Mutilation

Feather plucking is a serious behavioral issue that can indicate stress, poor diet, or medical problems.

Causes:

• Boredom or lack of mental stimulation

• Poor nutrition (lack of vitamins or minerals)

• Parasites or skin infections

• Stress from environmental changes

Symptoms:

• Missing feathers (especially around the chest and wings)

• Excessive grooming leading to bald spots

• Red, inflamed skin

Prevention & Treatment:

• Provide a variety of toys to prevent boredom

• Ensure a balanced diet with fresh vegetables and pellets

• Reduce stressful environmental changes

• Visit an avian vet to rule out medical causes

Gastrointestinal Problems

Digestive issues are common in budgies and can range from minor stomach upset to serious infections.

Causes:

• Poor diet (excessive seeds, spoiled food)

• Bacterial or fungal infections

• Dirty food or water bowls

Symptoms:

• Watery or discolored droppings

• Vomiting or regurgitation (outside of courtship behavior)

• Loss of appetite

Prevention & Treatment:

• Provide fresh, clean food and water daily

• Avoid processed or sugary treats

• Introduce new foods gradually

• If symptoms persist, see a vet

Beak & Feather Disease (PBFD)

PBFD is a highly contagious viral disease that affects a budgie’s feathers, beak, and immune system.

Causes:

• Spread through direct contact with infected birds

• Contaminated food, water, or cage surfaces

Symptoms:

• Abnormal feather loss

• Brittle, misshapen beak

• Weak immune system (prone to infections)

Prevention & Treatment:

• Avoid exposing your budgie to infected birds

• Disinfect cages and food dishes regularly

• No cure—only supportive care from a vet

Egg Binding (Female Budgies)

Egg binding is a life-threatening condition where a female budgie struggles to pass an egg.

Causes:

• Calcium deficiency

• Obesity or lack of exercise

• Stress during breeding

Symptoms:

• Straining without laying an egg

• Sitting at the bottom of the cage

• Swollen abdomen

Prevention & Treatment:

• Provide calcium supplements (cuttlebone, mineral blocks)

• Ensure your budgie gets proper nutrition

• If a budgie is struggling for more than a few hours, seek emergency vet care

Mites & Parasites

Budgies can suffer from external parasites like mites, which cause discomfort and skin irritation.

Causes:

• Contact with infected birds

• Dirty or contaminated cages

Symptoms:

• Scaly skin around the beak or feet

• Excessive scratching or irritation

• Feather damage

Prevention & Treatment:

• Keep the cage clean

• Provide regular bathing options

• Consult a vet for mite treatment

How to Keep Your Budgie Safe & Healthy

Maintain a Clean Cage

• Change water and food dishes daily

• Replace cage liners every few days

• Deep-clean the cage monthly

Provide a Nutritionally Balanced Diet

• Pellets (nutritionally complete)

• Fresh fruits & vegetables

• Seeds in moderation

• Calcium sources (cuttlebone, mineral block)

Ensure Proper Environmental Conditions

• No direct drafts or extreme temperature changes

• Keep away from smoke, fumes, and scented candles

• Provide natural daylight & a sleep schedule

Offer Mental Stimulation & Socialization

• Rotate toys weekly

• Spend time talking and interacting with your budgie

• If possible, consider a budgie companion

Regular Vet Check-ups

• Annual health checks

• Immediate visits if abnormal behavior occurs

• Consider preventative health screenings

Budgie Behavior Explained: Why Your Bird Acts the Way It Does

Budgies, also known as parakeets, are highly intelligent, social, and expressive birds. They communicate through body language, vocalizations, and behaviors that may sometimes seem puzzling to their human companions. Whether you’re a first-time budgie owner or have experience with these fascinating birds, understanding their behaviors is key to keeping them happy and healthy.

This guide will walk you through common budgie behaviors and what they mean, helping you better connect with your feathered friend.

1. Understanding Budgie Body Language

Budgies use body language to express their emotions and intentions. Here are common postures and their meanings:

Fluffed-Up Feathers

• If your budgie fluffs up its feathers for a short time, it may simply be warming up or feeling relaxed.

• However, if your budgie stays fluffed up for long periods and seems lethargic, it could indicate illness.

Head Bobbing

• Young budgies tend to bob their heads when excited or seeking attention.

• Male budgies often bob their heads in a courtship display, trying to impress a female.

Stretching Wings & Legs

• If your budgie stretches one wing and one leg at the same time, it’s a sign of relaxation.

• Stretching both wings upwards often indicates happiness or preparation for flight.

Preening

Budgies preen their feathers to keep them clean and aligned. If your budgie frequently preens, it means they are comfortable and content.

2. Vocalizations & What They Mean

Budgies are very vocal birds, and their sounds tell a lot about their mood.

Chirping & Singing

• If your budgie chirps, sings, and talks, it’s a happy bird.

• A loud, continuous chirping session may indicate excitement or an attempt to communicate with you.

Squawking & Screaming

• Occasional loud squawks can mean frustration or alarm.

• Frequent screaming may indicate stress, fear, or a medical issue—check their environment and health.

Soft Chattering & Mumbling

• When your budgie softly chatters, it usually means contentment.

• Some budgies mimic speech or create their own “words.”

Silence

• A quiet budgie isn’t necessarily unhappy, but if your usually talkative bird suddenly stops vocalizing, check for illness or stress.

3. Social Behavior & Interaction

Budgies are highly social birds that thrive on companionship. Their interactions with humans and other budgies reveal their emotions.

Beak Grinding

• A budgie grinding its beak is a sign of relaxation and happiness.

• Budgies often grind their beak right before sleeping.

Nibbling or Gentle Biting

• If your budgie lightly nibbles your finger, it’s showing affection or curiosity.

• Hard biting, however, indicates fear, frustration, or territorial behavior.

Head Tilting & Eye Pinning

• When a budgie tilts its head to observe something, it’s curious or focusing on something interesting.

• Eye pinning (rapid pupil dilation and contraction) happens when a budgie is excited, aggressive, or focused.

Regurgitation

• If your budgie regurgitates food, it’s a sign of affection—often directed at you or another bird.

• In a courtship display, males feed females as a bonding gesture.

4. Playfulness & Activity

Budgies are energetic and love exploring their surroundings. Encouraging play helps maintain their physical and mental well-being.

Hanging Upside Down

• Budgies sometimes hang upside down from perches—this is normal and means they are playful and comfortable.

Playing with Toys

• A budgie that chews, climbs, or tosses toys around is engaged and happy.

• Ignoring toys could signal boredom or stress.

Flying & Flapping Wings

• If your budgie flaps its wings while staying in place, it’s either exercising or showing excitement.

• Frequent flying within the cage or outside means it’s feeling confident and active.

5. Sleep Patterns & Relaxation

Budgie Sleeping Positions

• Budgies usually sleep while perched, with their heads turned backward and tucked into their feathers.

• Some may sleep on one foot, switching feet occasionally.

Night Frights

• Sudden flapping or panic in the middle of the night may indicate a night fright.

• Covering the cage partially or providing a dim night light can prevent nighttime stress.

6. Territorial & Protective Behavior

Budgies can display territorial behavior, especially in multi-bird environments.

Defending Food or Perch Space

• If a budgie chases another bird away from a perch or food dish, it may be asserting dominance.

• Ensure multiple feeding stations and perches to avoid competition.

Aggression or Sudden Mood Swings

• An aggressive budgie may puff up, hiss, or lunge.

• Try introducing new birds slowly and provide enough space.

7. Mating & Courtship Behavior

If your budgie exhibits bonding behaviors, it may be signaling interest in a mate.

Signs of Courtship

• Head bobbing and singing to another budgie

• Regurgitating food for a mate

• Nest-seeking behavior

If you don’t want them to breed, ensure they don’t have access to nesting materials.

8. Stress & Illness Warning Signs

Recognizing Stress in Budgies

Signs of stress include:

• Loss of appetite

• Excessive feather plucking

• Frequent hiding or fluffed-up feathers

Signs of Illness

Budgies hide illness well, so watch for:

• Discolored droppings

• Labored breathing

• Unusual lethargy

If any signs persist, consult an avian vet immediately.

Understanding your budgie’s behavior allows you to connect better with your feathered friend. By observing their body language, vocalizations, and interactions, you can ensure they live a happy and fulfilling life.

Choosing the Perfect Cage for Your Budgie: Size, Setup & Essentials

 Budgies are small, lively, and intelligent birds that need a comfortable and spacious home to thrive. Selecting the right cage is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a budgie owner. A well-designed cage provides safety, security, and plenty of room for exercise and enrichment.

This guide will take you through everything you need to know about choosing the perfect budgie cage, including size recommendations, cage setup, essential accessories, and maintenance tips.

1. Understanding Your Budgie’s Cage Needs

Budgies are active and require room to fly, climb, and play. A poorly sized or incorrectly set up cage can lead to boredom, stress, and even health problems. A properly designed cage should:

• Be spacious enough for movement and exercise

• Have horizontal bars for climbing

• Contain essential accessories for stimulation

• Be easy to clean for a hygienic environment

A good cage setup will promote your budgie’s physical and mental well-being.

2. Choosing the Right Cage Size

Minimum Cage Size for Budgies

When choosing a cage, bigger is always better. The minimum recommended size for one budgie is:

• 18 x 18 x 18 inches (45 x 45 x 45 cm)

For two budgies, a larger cage of at least 30 x 18 x 18 inches (75 x 45 x 45 cm) is ideal. If you have multiple budgies, consider a flight cage or aviary to provide ample room.

Why Bigger Is Better

Budgies are active birds that love flying. A small cage restricts their movement, leading to boredom and stress. Always choose the largest possible cage within your available space.

3. Cage Shape & Bar Spacing

Horizontal vs. Vertical Bars

Budgies love to climb using their beaks and feet. Cages with horizontal bars allow for climbing and better exercise. Avoid cages with vertical-only bars, as they make climbing difficult.

Ideal Bar Spacing

Budgies are small birds, and bar spacing is crucial to prevent escape or injury.

• The ideal bar spacing is ½ inch (1.27 cm) or less.

• Bars wider than ½ inch can allow escape or cause injuries.

4. Cage Setup & Essential Accessories

Once you've chosen the right cage, it's time to set up a safe and stimulating environment for your budgie.

Perches & Roosting Areas

Budgies spend a lot of time on perches, so providing variety is key. Use perches made from:

• Natural wood (like apple, willow, or manzanita)

• Rope or soft material for foot exercise

• Different diameters to promote foot health

Avoid plastic perches or sandpaper perches, as they can cause foot sores.

Food & Water Dishes

Place shallow, accessible bowls for food and water in elevated areas, away from droppings. Ceramic or stainless steel dishes are best to prevent tipping.

Toys & Enrichment

Budgies are intelligent birds that require mental stimulation. Include:

• Bells, ropes, and mirrors

• Shredding toys for beak exercise

• Foraging toys to encourage natural instincts

• Swings & ladders for movement

Rotate toys weekly to prevent boredom.

5. Location & Cage Placement

Where you place your budgie’s cage affects their stress levels and well-being. Consider these placement tips:

• Avoid direct sunlight (prevents overheating)

• Keep away from drafts & air conditioning

• Place in a quiet area (but with some human interaction)

• Avoid kitchens (fumes and Teflon cookware can be toxic)

Budgies love companionship, so placing the cage in a social part of the home without excessive noise will keep them engaged.

6. Keeping Your Budgie’s Cage Clean

Daily Cleaning Tasks

• Change food and water

• Remove droppings and debris

• Wipe down perches

Weekly Cleaning Tasks

• Wash food and water dishes

• Replace cage liners or bedding

• Scrub bars and surfaces with bird-safe cleaner

Monthly Deep Clean

• Disinfect the entire cage

• Wash all toys & perches

• Check for wear and tear

Keeping the cage clean ensures your budgie stays healthy and happy.

7. Travel & Temporary Cages

Choosing a Travel Cage

If you need to transport your budgie, select a smaller, secure travel cage. Features to look for:

• Small, enclosed space to prevent stress

• Carrying handle for easy movement

• Secure doors to prevent escape

Travel cages should be used only for short trips or vet visits.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the perfect cage for your budgie is essential for their health and happiness. Providing a spacious, well-equipped, clean, and stimulating environment will help your budgie thrive.

What Do Budgies Eat? A Complete Nutrition Guide

Budgies are lively, intelligent birds that thrive on a well-balanced diet. Feeding your budgie the right foods not only keeps them healthy but also helps them maintain energy, vibrant plumage, and a strong immune system. This guide covers everything you need to know about what budgies eat and how to ensure they get optimal nutrition.

1. Understanding Budgie Nutrition

A budgie’s diet in the wild consists of various seeds, grasses, fruits, and even small amounts of insects. In captivity, their diet should mimic these natural eating habits to provide essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. A well-rounded diet includes a mix of seeds, pellets, fresh fruits, vegetables, and occasional treats.

Essential Nutrients for Budgies

Budgies require the following nutrients for optimal health:

• Protein: Supports growth, muscle development, and feather health. Found in legumes, seeds, and occasional egg-based treats.

• Carbohydrates: Provide energy for daily activity. Found in grains and fresh produce.

• Vitamins & Minerals: Help with bone health, immune function, and digestion. Found in fresh fruits, vegetables, and supplements.

• Fiber: Aids digestion and prevents digestive issues. Found in fresh vegetables and high-quality pellets.

2. The Best Staple Foods for Budgies

Seeds vs. Pellets: Which Is Better?

Many budgie owners rely on seed-based diets, but seeds alone can lead to deficiencies if not supplemented properly. Here’s the difference:

• Seed Mixes: Budgies love seeds such as millet, canary seed, and sunflower seeds. However, too many seeds can be high in fat, leading to obesity and health issues.

• Pellets: Specially formulated pellets provide balanced nutrition with essential vitamins and minerals. A pellet-based diet is ideal for keeping budgies healthy.

Best Seeds for Budgies

If feeding seeds, offer a mix that includes:

• Millet (white, red, and yellow)

• Canary seeds

• Oats

• Flaxseeds (good source of omega-3s)

• A small amount of sunflower seeds (high in fat, so feed in moderation)

3. Fresh Fruits Budgies Can Eat

Adding fresh fruit to your budgie’s diet provides essential vitamins and hydration. Offer fruits in small quantities to prevent sugar overload. Here are safe options:

• Apples (seedless)

• Bananas

• Blueberries

• Grapes

• Strawberries

• Oranges (small amounts)

• Peaches

• Mango

Fruits to Avoid

Some fruits are toxic to budgies and should never be fed:

• Avocado

• Fruit seeds (apple, cherry, apricot)

• Rhubarb

4. Vegetables That Are Safe for Budgies

Vegetables are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Offer fresh, washed veggies daily for a balanced diet:

• Carrots (grated or sliced)

• Leafy greens (spinach, kale, romaine)

• Bell peppers

• Cucumber

• Zucchini

• Broccoli

• Sweet potatoes (cooked)

• Peas

Vegetables to Avoid

Avoid feeding:

• Onions

• Garlic

• Tomato leaves

• Raw potatoes

5. Protein Sources for Budgies

Though seeds provide some protein, budgies benefit from occasional high-protein foods:

• Hard-boiled eggs (small portions)

• Cooked lentils

• Sprouted seeds (easier to digest than dry seeds)

• Small amounts of cooked quinoa

6. Treats & Extras for Budgies

Safe Treats

Treats should be given in moderation and should not replace essential foods:

• Millet spray (great for training but should be an occasional treat)

• Honey sticks (sparingly, as they contain sugar)

• Rice cakes (plain, unsalted)

• Whole grain toast (no butter or seasonings)

Unsafe & Toxic Foods

Never feed these dangerous items to budgies:

• Chocolate

• Coffee or tea

• Alcohol

• Salty or sugary foods

• Processed human foods

7. Importance of Fresh Water

Fresh, clean water should always be available. Budgies drink small amounts throughout the day, so refill their water dish daily. Avoid using chlorinated or flavored water.

8. How to Introduce New Foods to Your Budgie

Budgies can be picky eaters, so introducing new foods takes patience. Here’s how:

1. Start Small: Offer tiny portions alongside familiar foods.

2. Be Consistent: Introduce new foods regularly to encourage curiosity.

3. Make It Fun: Chop vegetables into bite-sized pieces and present them creatively.

4. Use Positive Reinforcement: If your budgie tries something new, reward them with gentle praise or a millet treat.

9. Common Budgie Diet Mistakes

Feeding Only Seeds

Seed diets alone lack essential nutrients. Balance their diet with pellets, fresh foods, and occasional treats.

Overfeeding Treats

Treats should not make up more than 10% of their diet. Too many sugary or fatty treats can lead to obesity and digestive issues.

Ignoring Fresh Food

Budgies benefit greatly from fresh produce. If your budgie refuses veggies, continue offering them in creative ways until they accept them.

Final Thoughts

Providing a healthy, varied diet ensures that your budgie lives a long and happy life. By including fresh fruits, vegetables, high-quality pellets, and occasional treats, you’ll keep your feathered friend energetic, playful, and thriving!

The Ultimate Guide to Budgie Care: Tips for a Happy, Healthy Bird

 Budgies (also known as parakeets) are one of the most popular pet birds worldwide, loved for their vibrant personalities, charming chirps, and ability to learn tricks—even talk! If you’re a first-time budgie owner or looking to refine your care routine, this ultimate guide will help you provide the best possible life for your small, feathery companion.

1. Choosing the Right Budgie

Before bringing a budgie home, it’s important to choose a healthy bird. Look for:

• Bright, clear eyes without discharge

• Smooth feathers with no bald patches

• An alert and curious behavior

• A clean vent (the area below the tail should not be wet or dirty) If possible, adopt from a reputable breeder or rescue center to ensure your budgie has been well-cared for.

2. Setting Up the Perfect Budgie Home

Choosing the Right Cage

Your budgie’s cage should be spacious enough for them to fly and move comfortably. The recommended size for one budgie is at least 18x18x18 inches, but larger is always better. Horizontal bar cages are ideal, as they allow climbing, and bar spacing should be no wider than ½ inch to prevent escape.

Perches & Accessories

Perches are essential for your budgie’s foot health. Provide a variety of perches with different textures and widths, including natural wood branches. Avoid sandpaper perches, as they can harm your bird’s feet.

Place food and water dishes in accessible areas. Some other useful cage accessories include:

• Toys: Mirrors, bells, and ropes keep your budgie entertained.

• Swings & Ladders: Encourages movement and play.

• Cuttlebone: Provides essential calcium for beak health.

3. Feeding Your Budgie Right

A healthy budgie diet includes:

Seeds & Pellets

Many owners feed their budgies a seed-based diet, but this alone isn’t enough. Include high-quality pellets for balanced nutrition, as they contain essential vitamins and minerals.

Fresh Fruits & Vegetables

Supplement seeds and pellets with fresh foods like:

• Leafy greens (spinach, kale, romaine)

• Carrots, bell peppers, cucumbers

• Apples, bananas (in moderation), berries Ensure foods are washed and served in small portions. Avoid avocado, chocolate, and caffeine, which are toxic to birds.

Clean Drinking Water

Fresh, clean water should always be available. Replace water daily and use shallow dishes to prevent spills.

4. Keeping Your Budgie Healthy

Signs of a Healthy Budgie

A healthy budgie should be energetic, have smooth feathers, and exhibit normal eating and drinking habits. Signs of illness include:

• Fluffed-up feathers and lethargy

• Changes in droppings (watery, discolored)

• Labored breathing or wheezing

• Loss of appetite

If you notice any of these signs, consult an avian vet immediately.

Exercise & Flight Time

Budgies need daily activity! Allow supervised out-of-cage flight time in a safe, enclosed area to keep their muscles strong and spirits high.

Hygiene & Bathing

Budgies enjoy bathing—offer a shallow dish of water or mist them lightly to help with feather cleanliness. Keep the cage clean by replacing bedding regularly and wiping down surfaces.

5. Socialization & Bonding

Budgies are social birds that need interaction. If you have a single budgie, spend time talking and playing with them daily. If keeping multiple budgies, introduce them carefully and ensure they get along.

Teaching Your Budgie Tricks & Talking

Budgies are intelligent and can learn tricks like stepping onto a finger or ringing a bell. Use treats and positive reinforcement to encourage learning.

If you want your budgie to talk, repeat simple words daily in an enthusiastic tone—males are generally better at mimicking speech than females.

6. Creating a Happy Environment

Providing Mental Stimulation

Boredom can lead to stress and bad behaviors. Rotate toys frequently, introduce foraging activities, and provide companionship to keep your budgie engaged.

Ensuring Proper Sleep

Budgies need 10–12 hours of sleep per night. Cover the cage or place it in a quiet, dark area to ensure a good night's rest.

7. Common Budgie Health Issues & Prevention

Feather Plucking

A stressed budgie may pluck feathers. This can be caused by boredom, poor diet, or illness—always rule out health problems first. Provide stimulation and nutritious food to help prevent this behavior.

Respiratory Issues

Budgies are sensitive to air quality. Avoid scented candles, cigarette smoke, and strong cleaning chemicals near their cage to prevent breathing problems.

Beak Overgrowth

Some budgies develop overgrown beaks, making eating difficult. Providing a cuttlebone and wooden chew toys can help keep the beak trimmed naturally.

Final Thoughts

Budgies are delightful, intelligent pets that thrive with proper care, love, and attention. By providing a clean habitat, nutritious food, plenty of interaction, and a stimulating environment, you can ensure your budgie leads a happy and healthy life.

The Golden Swans and the Poor Crane

Once upon a time, there lived a flock of swans in the kingdom of Vindhyadesh.  King Vijayadeva was the ruler of Vindhyadesh.  He was a wise and benign ruler who was kind to all his subjects. 

The swans were graceful and elegant birds.  Besides, they had one special and defining quality.  They had golden feathers. 

One day, while the swans were returning home after a long day, they saw a beautiful lake below.   It was the royal lake of King Vijayadeva.   The clear water of the lake reflected the golden hues of the evening sun.  Summer was approaching and almost all the water bodies in the forest were shrinking or had completely dried.    The swans were delighted to see such a body of water close by .  They descended on the lake and were swimming and frolicking merrily. 

When the attendants in the palace saw the birds in the royal lake.  They were angry.  They were worried that the birds may dirty the clear waters of the lake.

On some days, in the evening, King Vijayadeva would sail about the lake in the royal barge with the queen.  He would be angry if he found anything in the lake amiss.  So, the servants began to chase the flock of swans away. 

The  swans pleaded with them to permit them to stay there.  They promised to keep the water clean.  The servants reported the matter to the king.  The generous king consented.  The swans were thankful. 

Every week, as a token of thanks,  one of the swans would pluck a feather from his back and give it to the attendants who deposited it in the royal treasury. 

The swans were very happy with the lake.  The bathed and frolicked in it.  They swam around to their hearts’ content. 

Days turned into months and life went on.  The swans had grown accustomed to the palace and the lake. 

One day, a crane flew into the forest of Vindhyadesh.  The crane was sick and injured.  It had once been part of a vast flock of cranes.  The cranes migrated over long distances every year.  However, tragedy had struck a month back.  One day, when it was fishing in a river as usual, a fox had attacked it.  The crane had fought back and managed to drive the fox away.  However, the fox had managed to bite the poor bird.

For a few days, it could not fly.  In the meanwhile, the rest of the flock continued with their journey.  The poor crane was alone and afraid.  He could not fly long distances in search of food.  He happened to fly across the palace and spotted the royal lake.  “Surely, I can spend sometime here”, he said to himself. 

He landed in the lake and stood in a corner.  When the golden swans saw him, they were angry.  They thought of themselves as superior to all other birds on account of their golden plumage.  “How dare you, an ordinary bird, stay in the royal lake as we”, they angrily demanded.  The poor crane pleaded with them.  He described his dire situation.  “I will leave once I am strong enough to fly”, he begged them.

But the arrogant swans would have none of it.  Pride and hubris got the better of them.  “Do you know”, they said, “we have leased the lake from the king himself.  We pay him a handsome amount for our use”. 

It so happened that the king was passing through a corridor near the lake at that very moment.  He overheard the conceited and proud speech of the swans.  He felt deeply insulted to hear the swans say that he had leased a portion of his royal palace.

He had allowed the to use the lake for free.  He had accepted the gift of the golden feather only as a token of goodwill.      He regretted accepting the golden feather from such insolent birds. “How audacious of them”, he thought to himself.

He summoned his servants and ordered that the swans should be driven out from the palace grounds at once.  The servants did as they were commanded and the swans were soon gone.  As for the poor crane, the king felt compassion on him.  He let the crane stay there and asked his servants to feed him.  The crane stayed there for a few months.  In due course, he grew sufficiently strong.  When the flock of cranes arrived the next season, he flew away with them.  The king and everyone in the palace were happy to see him go. 

Children, this story teaches us to be humble and gracious no matter what our circumstances.  In life, we may gain high positions and status.  But we must always be simple and respectful to others and conduct ourselves with dignity.

The Bald King and the Doctors

Once upon a time in the kingdom of Vishwapur, there was a king.  The king was a just king and ruled wisely.  However, he had a weakness.  He cared too much about his appearance.  He dressed in the most colourful and resplendent of outfits.  He would spend almost an hour in front of the mirror in his dressing room. The king was very fond of his hair.  They were jet black and looked luxuriant with wavy folds.

One day, while he was thus dressing up and admiring his good looks in the mirror, he noticed that his hair was growing thinner by the day.  He was getting bald.  The king was shocked.  The next day, while he was holding court in his palace, he summoned his doctors.  He explained his problem to him and ordered them to find a solution.  The doctors were sad for they knew of no cure for baldness.  They told the king that there was no cure for baldness. Angry and disappointed, he dismissed the court and left for his chambers in a huff.

The next day, he summoned the doctors again.  “I give you thirty days”, he said in anger, “I want a cure for my baldness”.  You will see me a very angry person after that.  The doctors were terrified.  They knew what a king could do when angry.  The desperate doctors sent word to their friends in the kingdom and even outside and asked them if they knew of any cure for the king’s baldness.  The days passed and the doctors were getting desperate.  As for the king, he had stopped even attending the royal court.  He spent his time in his chambers depressed and angry.

Vishwanath was young doctor.  He was young and had just finished his education under a well known doctor in the kingdom.  Quiet and soft spoken, he listened quietly to the doctors frantic discussions.  He too was unhappy at the king’s condition and the helplessness of the doctors. While he was thus pondering, he hit upon an idea.  He approached the other doctors.  “Sirs”, he said, “I have an idea.  We need to prepare a concoction with the following herbs”. He then gave them a list of ingredients.  They were mostly herbs which were available locally.  The other doctors laughed at the suggestion.  “How could such simple herbs be a cure for baldness”, they asked.   Vishwanath smiled.  “Please do what I say”, he said,” the medicine will solve our problem”.

Soon the dreaded day dawned.  The king summoned his court and ordered the doctors to appear before him.  The doctors came before him.  The king looked at them and asked,  “Have you found out a cure for my problem?”.  The doctors looked at each other in fear.  Just then, Vishwanath stepped forward.  “I have, Your Majesty”, he said, “I have this magical concoction which can solve your problem.  I got this from a hermit who lives in the neighbouring kingdom”.  The king was overjoyed.  He ordered that Vishwanath be given a bag of gold coins.  Just then Vishwanath added, “Your Majesty, the hermit told me of a condition for the medicine to work”.  The king looked at Vishwanath.  “Your Majesty, the hermit said that anyone who takes should never think of a blue monkey”, Vishwanath said.  The entire court was stunned.  No one had ever heard of such a strange condition before.

Vishwanath looked at the king and said, “Sire, I too do not understand this condition.  However, since the hermit has asked me to tell you this.  I have told you.  I think it is better to follow the hermit’s instructions so that the potion would be effective.”

The king was desperate.  He wanted to cure his baldness.  He accepted the magical potion from Vishwanath and hurriedly dismissed the court.
He went to his chambers and opened the bottle containing the magical potion.  He tried to drink a few drops of it when an image of a blue monkey flashed before him.  He shook his head and tried to drink again.  Again the image of the blue monkey flashed before him.  Vishwanath was a clever man.  He knew that the more someone wanted to drive something from his mind, the more the image would appear to him.  The king had fallen for the trick.  By this, Vishwanath had saved himself and the rest of the doctors from the king’s wrath. The king was frustrated as he repeatedly tried to drink the medicine only to be disturbed in his imagination by the blue monkey.  He eventually gave up.  After a few weeks, he grew to accept his bald condition.

Children, this story tells us two things.  It tells us to accept ourselves with our shortcomings and things which cannot be changed.  It also teaches us to think quick like the young doctor who cleverly made the king accept his condition.