A parakeet is any one of many small to medium-sized species of parrot, in multiple genera, that generally has long tail feathers. Older spellings still sometimes encountered are paroquet or paraquet. In American English, the word parakeet usually refers to the budgerigar. The budgerigar is a species of parakeet.

Are parakeets a type of parrot?

Parakeet, also spelled Parrakeet, any of numerous seed-eating parrots of small size, slender build, and long, tapering tail. In this sense the name is given to some 115 species in 30 genera of the subfamily Psittacinae (family Psittacidae) and has influenced another parrot name, lorikeet (see parrot).

Are budgies considered parrots?

Parakeets, also commonly known as budgies, are actually a type of parrot. While they have certain notable similarities, like their four-toed feet and their typical diets, parakeets and other species of parrot can be vastly different.