Budgerigar

Australia and nearby islands

The budgerigar is named for the wavy feathers on its wings and back. Although this species lacks vocal cords, it uses its beak to make a variety of sounds. Budgerigars can imitate sounds they hear and can memorize over 100 words. In cold weather, they curl up into a ball, puff out their feathers, and slow down their movements; this behavior is an adaptive strategy aimed at maintaining body temperature.