The budgerigar (nicknamed budgie) is a small parrot. It belongs to the family of old-world parrots and parakeets (Psittaculidae). Budgerigars are often called "parakeets", especially in American English. The term "Parakeet" refers to many types of small parrots with long flat tails. The budgerigar is found in the drier parts of Australia. It has lived there for over 5 million years. It is commonly kept as a pet. Budgies are intelligent birds and can be taught to mimic human speech.