If you’ve identified your budgie as male and notice his cere turn brown, he may have a medical condition. [6] X Research source
If the budgie is fertile and ready to breed, you may also notice the cere thicken and become crusty. [9] X Research source The cere build up can be about a centimeter thick. [10] X Research source
If your budgie is immature or less than 4 months old, the cere on males will slowly turn deep blue and females will keep white or pale blue before showing tan. [14] X Research source
For example, male albino budgies will have a pink cere color.
Keep in mind that behavior should not be solely taken into consideration when determining sex. Both sexes can display the same behavior.
You may notice a male budgie tap against a female and regurgitate food to her. Don’t worry. This is normal bonding behavior and will occur between same-sex pairs, too.
Don’t forget that you can ask your veterinarian to determine the sex of the budgie. This will be easier if the vet is familiar with treating birds.
