Choosing the right pet bird can be a big decision. With over 10,000 species of birds in the world, there are a lot of options to consider! The best bird for you depends on your lifestyle, experience level with birds, and what you’re looking to get out of the relationship. In this article, we’ll go over some key factors to think about when picking your feathered friend.
What is your experience level with birds?
If you’re new to bird ownership, it’s usually best to start with a species that is relatively easy to care for. Some birds that make good “beginner birds” include:
- Budgies (parakeets)
- Cockatiels
- Lovebirds
- Canaries
- Parrotlets
- Finches
These birds don’t require as elaborate care or large enclosures as some other parrot species. They tend to be pretty hardy, easier to tame, and have more modest exercise and social needs. That makes them a good way to dip your toe into bird ownership without getting overwhelmed.
If you already have some experience with birds, you can consider some more advanced species. Some examples include:
- Conures
- Quaker parrots
- Pionus parrots
- Parrotlets
- Senegal parrots
- Poicephalus parrots
These tend to be a little larger, smarter, and more demanding than beginner birds. But they can also form very close bonds with their owners and learn lots of fun tricks!
The most high-maintenance birds are large parrots like macaws, Amazons, African greys, and cockatoos. We only recommend these for very experienced bird owners who can devote several hours a day to exercising, socializing, and bonding with them. Their care takes a major commitment!
What is your lifestyle and household like?
Your lifestyle is a huge factor in what kind of bird will thrive with you. Certain birds have very specific environmental needs.
Noisy households or apartments are not well-suited for larger parrots that are sensitive to noise pollution and can be loud themselves. Finches, canaries, parrotlets, or budgies may adapt better.
If you have small children or other pets, you’ll want a bird that is tolerant of activity and noise. Budgies, cockatiels, and Caique parrots often do well around kids and pets when gradually introduced. Birds like African greys can be nippy and sensitive.
Those with busy schedules should steer clear of needier large parrots who require hours of daily interaction and stimulation. A canary or parakeets that can entertain itself a bit more suits busier owners.
And remember – birds are incredibly messy! They scatter food, feathers, and droppings constantly. If you like keeping a super tidy home, a bird may drive you crazy. Be prepared for dusting, vacuuming, and cleaning their cage often.
Do you want a bird that talks or sings?
Certain bird species are prized for their talking and singing abilities. Good “talkers” include:
- African grey parrots
- Amazon parrots
- Budgies
- Cockatoos
- Eclectus parrots
- Hawaiian crows
- Indian ringneck parakeets
- Monk parakeets
- Myna birds
The best “singers” are:
- Canaries
- Finches
- Song sparrows
- Lyrebirds
- Mockingbirds
- Shama thrush
So if you want a vocal companion, focus on species with natural vocal talents!
What size bird do you want?
Bird sizes vary dramatically – from tiny 2-inch hummingbirds to 4-foot macaws! Consider these size categories when choosing:
Extra small birds: under 5 inches
- Finches
- Parrotlets
- Budgies
Small birds: 5-12 inches
- Conures
- Cockatiels
- Quaker parrots
- Lovebirds
- Pionus parrots
Medium birds: 12-20 inches
- Amazon parrots
- Caique parrots
- Senegal parrots
Large birds: 20-39 inches
- Macaws
- Cockatoos
- African greys
Extra large birds: over 40 inches
- Hyacinth macaws
- Palm cockatoos
The larger the bird, the more space and higher costs it will need for housing, feeding, toys, and vet care. But bigger birds can also be very engaging and bond closely with owners.
What is your climate like?
Some birds fare better than others in very warm or cold climates.
For warm environments, good choices include:
- African greys
- Amazon parrots
- Conures
- Eclectus parrots
- Parrotlets
- Pionus parrots
For cold climates, look for:
- Cardinals
- Chickadees
- Conures
- Finches
- Lovebirds
- Parrotlets
Make sure any outdoor housing is properly insulated and heated/cooled for any birds in temperature extremes. Proper hydration, nutrition, and climate control is key!
Do you want snuggles?
If you’re looking for a cuddly bird, stick to species naturally inclined to snuggle with their owners. The most snuggly birds include:
- Cockatiels
- Conures
- Lovebirds
- Parrotlets
- Pionus parrots
- Quaker parrots
Larger parrots like Amazons and macaws can be taught to enjoy petting and scratches too. But little birds are more naturally snuggly.
Are you prepared for a long commitment?
Many popular pet birds have very long lifespans – upward of 20-60 years with proper care! Make sure you’re ready for such a long commitment before getting one of these:
- African grey parrots: 40-60 years
- Amazon parrots: 40-60 years
- Cockatoos: 40-60 years
- Conures: 20-30 years
- Eclectus parrots: 40-60 years
- Macaws: 40-60 years
- Parrotlets: 15-20 years
Even smaller birds like budgies and cockatiels live 10-15 years. Be sure you can provide a lifetime of care before deciding!
What’s your budget?
Bird ownership can get quite pricey between the bird itself, housing, toys, vet care, food, and other supplies. Budget-friendly options include:
- Budgies: $15-$35
- Canaries: $20-$100
- Cockatiels: $80-$150
- Finches: $10-$50
- Lovebirds: $30-$100
- Parrotlets: $80-$150
More expensive birds are larger parrots like:
- African greys: $1,000-$2,000
- Amazons: $700-$1,500
- Cockatoos: $1,000-$4,000
- Conures: $250-$750
- Macaws: $1,000-$3,500
Be sure to budget for ongoing costs too, not just the initial bird price. The lifetime commitment of a bird is expensive!
Do you want a quiet or noisy bird?
Some birds are far noisier than others with their vocalizations, squawks, and screams. For a quieter house, look for:
- Budgies
- Canaries
- Finches
- Parrotlets
Louder options include:
- Amazon parrots
- Cockatoos
- Conures
- Macaws
- Quaker parrots
The loudest tend to be larger parrots, who can reach noise levels of 90+ decibels. Avoid noisy species if you live in an apartment or need a quiet environment.
Do you want an active or mellow bird?
Some birds have endless energy and need hours of play and exercise daily. Others are much calmer.
High energy birds include:
- Conures
- Lories/lorikeets
- Lovebirds
- Macaws
- Pionus parrots
- Quaker parrots
Mellow birds are:
- African greys
- Amazon parrots
- Cockatoos
- Cockatiels
- Eclectus parrots
High-strung birds demand constant stimulation. But laid-back ones are less bothersome for busy owners. Know your lifestyle!
Do you want a bird that flies?
Birds come in two categories: flighted or flightless. Flightless birds include:
- Chicken breeds like Silkies
- Emus
- Kiwis
- Ostriches
- Penguins
- Rheas
Any flighted bird can fly indoors if their wings are not clipped. Good indoor fliers are:
- Budgies
- Canaries
- Finches
- Parrotlets
Larger parrots should have an aviary or only supervised flight outdoors. Decide if a house flyer appeals to you or not. Fledgling parrots are very clumsy!
Key things to remember
Here are some key tips to remember about picking the right bird:
- Select based on experience level, lifestyle, climate, and your reasons for wanting a bird.
- Lifespans are often 15-60 years – a serious lifelong commitment!
- Costs extend far beyond just purchasing the bird itself.
- Research species’ noise levels, energy, cuddliness, flying ability etc. to find the best temperament match.
- Some species are far noisier, messier, or needier than others.
- Well-suited birds enhance our lives enormously – but poorly matched ones can be rehomed.
Take time to honestly assess your situation. And consult experienced bird owners, breeders, and vets to decide what’s suitable. With the right match, you’ll find great joy in sharing your life with a feathered friend!
Top 10 beginner birds
Here’s a quick glance at some of the top contenders for beginner bird owners:
Bird | Personality | Care Difficulty | Cost |
---|---|---|---|
Budgie | Active, very vocal | Easy | Cheap |
Cockatiel | Affectionate, somewhat vocal | Easy | Moderate |
Lovebird | Feisty, energetic | Moderate | Cheap |
Canary | Songful, active | Easy | Cheap |
Parrotlet | Feisty, quiet | Moderate | Moderate |
Finch | Active, social | Easy | Cheap |
Conure | Playful, noisy | Moderate | Moderate |
Quaker parrot | Vocal, cuddly | Moderate | Moderate |
Caique | Clownish, energetic | Moderate | Expensive |
Pionus parrot | Affectionate, quieter | Moderate | Expensive |
Conclusion
Finding the perfect pet bird is a big endeavour – but very rewarding when you get it right! Take your time, learn as much as possible about different species’ needs, and evaluate your own lifestyle and experience honestly. Choosing a bird suited for you will set you both up for a happy lifelong bond. Consult avian experts for guidance too. With the right feathered match, you’ll find a clever, quirky and loyal companion.