Q1. Do Galahs mate for life?
Q2. Can you teach Galahs to talk?
Q3. Can you keep a Galah as a pet?
Q4. Are you allowed to catch Galahs from the wild?
Q5. Is it illegal to shoot Galahs?

Q6. I found a baby Galah, what should I do?
Q7. Should I feed wild galahs?

Q1. Do Galahs mate for life?

Yes. Under normal circumstances galahs will remain with their same mate over their life span. However if a bird is separated from its mate or one dies the remaining bird will re-pair up with another bird.

Q2. Can you teach Galahs to talk?

Yes. Both males and female Galahs can be taught to imitate human speech, though males are usually easier to teach. The three keys to teaching your bird to speak is:
1. Start with a young bird that has little to no contact with other galahs or mirrors.
2. Repetition. Start with a a simple word, and repeat it often to the bird. "Hello" is a good start.
3. Praise the bird when it speaks with a food reward or a scratch on the head.

Q3. Can you keep Galahs as pets?

Yes. Galahs make excellent pets. But as they are a very social bird that require lots of attention or they will quickly become bored, dull and depression may set in. They also require suitable housing in a largish aviary or are given an opportunity to fly around the house, so they can get plenty of exercise. A fresh supply of food and water should be provided every day to keep your bird healthy. You currently do not, need a license to keep a Galah as a pet in Australia.

Q4. Are you allowed to catch Galahs from the wild.

No. This is illegal under Australian federal law.

Q5. Is it illegal to shoot galahs in the wild.

In New South Wales it is currently illegal to shoot wild Galahs. In Western Australia it is legal to shoot the birds as the state government has declared them a pest in farming areas.

Q6. I found a baby Galah, what do I do?

1. Remove it from any dangers. Get it out of harms way.
2. Ensure it really has been abandoned by its parents!
3. Keep it warm.
4. Give it water and food
5. Teach it to eat seed and drink water unaided.
6. Release it or keep it as a pet.

If you are unable to look after a wild baby Galah call
NSW WIRES on 1800 641 188

For more information view Article 029 - How to look after a baby Galah

Q7. Should I feed wild galahs?

This is a highly debated topic. I tend to lean to the side that it is OK to feed wild birds. But, the food you supply should only supplement rather than replaces their natural diet. So only in small quantities. Providing a source of fresh clean water to drink (such as a bird bath) is more important. Remember Galahs can be very noisy, so consider your neighbours before attracting them to your yard.