Are you considering getting a bird as a pet, but unsure which species would be the best fit for you? “What Birds Make Good Pets” is here to help you narrow down your options and find the perfect feathered friend.
From talkative parrots to colorful finches, this article explores various bird breeds and their suitability as pets, highlighting their personalities, care requirements, and compatibility with different household environments.
So, whether you’re a first-time bird owner or looking to expand your avian family, get ready to discover the wonderful world of pet birds and find your ideal companion.
Small Birds
Canaries
Canaries are popular small birds known for their beautiful singing. They come in a variety of vibrant colors and their melodious tunes can bring joy and relaxation to any home. Canaries are relatively low-maintenance birds, making them a great choice for beginners.
They are content in smaller cages and don’t require as much social interaction as some other bird species. Canaries are also known to be quite independent, so they are well-suited for people who may not have a lot of time to dedicate to daily bird care.
Budgerigars
Also known as budgies or parakeets, these small birds are delightful companions. Budgerigars are highly sociable creatures and thrive on interaction with their owners. They are known for their playful personalities and ability to mimic sounds and even words with enough training and patience.
Budgerigars can be easily trained to step onto your finger or even perform simple tricks, making them a great option for bird enthusiasts who enjoy spending time interacting with their pets.
Finches
Finches are tiny, colorful birds that are known for their acrobatic flying skills. They are not typically hand-tamed like some other bird species, but they are fascinating to watch as they flit and dart around their cage.
Finches are highly social and do best when kept in pairs or small groups. Their cheerful chirping can fill your home with a delightful ambiance. Finches are relatively low-maintenance birds and don’t require as much daily interaction as some other species, making them a suitable choice for those who may have limited time to devote to their pets.
Lovebirds
Lovebirds are small, intelligent birds that form strong bonds with their owners. They are known for their affectionate nature and enjoy spending time interacting with their human companions.
Lovebirds are highly social and thrive on daily mental stimulation and physical exercise. They require ample space and toys to keep them entertained and happy. With their vibrant plumage and playful personalities, lovebirds can make a great addition to any family.
Medium-sized Birds
Cockatiels
Cockatiels are one of the most popular pet bird species, and for good reason. They are medium-sized birds with charming personalities and the ability to bond closely with their human caregivers.
Cockatiels are known for their distinctive crests and ability to mimic sounds and even speech. They love being part of the family and enjoy being involved in daily activities. Cockatiels are also relatively low-maintenance, making them a great option for those who want a sociable bird without the need for constant attention.
Quaker Parrots
Quaker parrots, also known as monk parakeets, are intelligent and highly social birds. They are known for their playful and mischievous nature, which can provide endless entertainment for their owners.
Quaker parrots are capable of learning a wide range of words and phrases, making them talented talkers. They require a lot of mental stimulation and physical exercise to prevent boredom, so they need plenty of toys and interaction with their owners.
Quaker parrots can be a great choice for families or individuals who are looking for an engaging and interactive pet bird.
Conures
Conures are medium-sized parrots known for their vibrant plumage and comical personalities. They are highly sociable birds and enjoy being the center of attention. Conures are often described as clownish and have a knack for entertaining their owners with their playful antics.
They require daily mental and physical stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. Conures can also be quite vocal and may not be suitable for apartment living or for those who prefer a quieter household.
Poicephalus Parrots
Poicephalus parrots, such as the Senegal parrot and Meyers parrot, are medium-sized birds known for their intelligence and charm. They are highly trainable and can learn to perform tricks and even complete puzzles.
Poicephalus parrots are relatively quiet compared to some other parrot species, making them suitable for apartment living. However, they still require regular mental stimulation and interaction to thrive.
With their engaging personalities and ability to form strong bonds, Poicephalus parrots can make a wonderful addition to any bird-loving family.
Large Birds
African Grey Parrots
African Grey parrots are renowned for their exceptional intelligence and ability to mimic human speech. They are considered one of the most intelligent bird species and require plenty of mental stimulation to prevent boredom.
African Grey parrots form strong bonds with their owners and can become quite dependent on their companionship. They need a spacious cage and plenty of toys to keep them entertained. African Grey parrots thrive in an environment with regular social interaction and mental challenges.
Amazon Parrots
Amazon parrots are known for their vibrant colors and outgoing personalities. They are highly social birds and thrive on daily interaction with their owners. Amazon parrots are also known for their ability to mimic speech and even whole phrases.
They require plenty of mental stimulation and physical exercise to prevent boredom and behavioral issues. Amazon parrots are best suited for owners who can dedicate ample time to their care and engage in regular training and socialization.
Eclectus Parrots
Eclectus parrots are visually stunning birds with strikingly vivid plumage. They are known for their gentle nature and strong bonding tendencies. Eclectus parrots are intelligent and enjoy mental challenges, such as puzzle toys and learning new tricks.
They require a balanced diet that consists of fresh fruits and vegetables. Eclectus parrots thrive in an environment with plenty of space to fly and explore. Their calm disposition and exquisite beauty make them a popular choice among bird enthusiasts.
Macaws
Macaws are majestic birds known for their impressive size and vibrant colors. They are highly intelligent creatures that require mental stimulation and social interaction on a daily basis. Macaws are known for their loud vocalizations, which may not be suitable for apartment living or for those who prefer a quieter household.
They need a spacious enclosure to accommodate their large wingspan and require plenty of toys and enrichment to keep them happy and mentally engaged. Macaws can form deep bonds with their owners and make lifelong companions.
Social Birds
Cockatiels
Cockatiels, as mentioned earlier, are highly social birds that thrive on interaction with their owners. They enjoy being part of the family and appreciate the presence of their human companions.
Cockatiels can form deep bonds with their owners and often enjoy participating in daily activities together. With their sociable nature and friendly personalities, they are an excellent choice for those seeking a bird that will truly become a beloved member of the family.
Lovebirds
Lovebirds are specifically mentioned earlier for their affectionate nature and strong bonds with their owners. They are highly social birds that require daily interaction and attention to thrive.
Lovebirds enjoy being handled and gently petted by their owners. They also appreciate having plenty of toys and activities to keep them mentally stimulated. If you’re looking for a bird that will happily accompany you throughout the day and provide constant companionship, lovebirds are an excellent choice.
Budgerigars
Budgerigars, or budgies, are small birds with big personalities. They are highly sociable creatures that enjoy the company of their human caregivers. Budgerigars can form close bonds with their owners and often enjoy sitting on their shoulder or finger.
They appreciate being included in daily activities and love interacting with their family members. Budgerigars are highly adaptable, making them suitable for various living situations. Whether you live alone or have a busy household, budgerigars can thrive in a social environment.
Quaker Parrots
Quaker parrots, as mentioned before, are highly social birds that enjoy spending time with their owners. They are known for their playful nature and love engaging in interactive games or toys.
Quaker parrots appreciate being included in family activities and enjoy being the center of attention. They thrive in an environment where they receive regular social interaction and mental stimulation.
If you’re looking for a bird that will happily join in on family gatherings and provide endless entertainment, a Quaker parrot may be the perfect choice.
Talkative Birds
African Grey Parrots
African Grey parrots, as previously mentioned, are renowned for their exceptional ability to mimic speech. They are highly intelligent birds that can learn an extensive vocabulary. African Grey parrots are capable of understanding context and using words in appropriate situations.
They require plenty of mental stimulation to keep their cognitive abilities sharp. If you enjoy engaging in conversation and interacting with a talkative pet, an African Grey parrot may be the perfect companion for you.
Amazon Parrots
Amazon parrots, as mentioned earlier, have a talent for mimicking speech and phrases. They are known for their strong vocal abilities and expressive personalities. Amazon parrots enjoy interacting with their owners through both verbal and non-verbal communication.
They can learn new words and phrases with consistent training and enjoy showing off their linguistic talents. If you’re looking for a bird that can keep you entertained with its vocal prowess, an Amazon parrot may be an excellent choice.
Eclectus Parrots
Eclectus parrots are highly intelligent birds and have the potential to learn and speak words. While they may not be as proficient in mimicry as African Grey or Amazon parrots, they can still become talkative pets with proper training and socialization.
Eclectus parrots have a gentle and melodic voice, which can be quite enjoyable to listen to. They may not have an extensive vocabulary, but their ability to communicate and interact with their owners is both charming and fascinating.
Macaws
Macaws, as noted earlier, are known for their loud vocalizations. While they may not speak as clearly as some other parrot species, they are highly expressive birds that use their voice to communicate their various needs and emotions.
Macaws are capable of picking up certain words or phrases with enough training and repetition. They often use vocalizations as a means of bonding and establishing their territory. If you’re looking for a bird that will make its presence known and fill your home with its vibrant calls, a macaw may be the perfect fit.
Low-Maintenance Birds
Canaries
Canaries, as previously mentioned, are relatively low-maintenance birds. They are independent creatures that don’t require constant attention or social interaction. Canaries are content in smaller cages and are quite self-sufficient.
They do need regular access to fresh food and water, as well as a clean and comfortable environment. Providing them with a balanced diet and regular basic care will ensure their well-being. If you’re seeking a low-maintenance pet bird that can bring cheerful melodies to your home, a canary may be the perfect choice.
Budgerigars
Budgerigars, also discussed earlier, are another option for those seeking a low-maintenance bird. They are hardy creatures that can adapt well to various living conditions. Budgerigars require a well-balanced diet, regular access to fresh water, and a clean living environment to stay healthy.
Providing them with plenty of toys and activities can help keep them mentally stimulated. While they do enjoy daily interaction, budgerigars are generally content with less human interaction compared to some other bird species.
Finches
Finches, as mentioned before, are relatively low-maintenance birds. They are small and require minimal space compared to larger bird species. Finches thrive when provided with a clean and comfortable cage, regular access to fresh food and water, and toys to keep them mentally stimulated.
They don’t require direct human interaction and can happily coexist with other finches in a spacious aviary. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance bird that can add a touch of beauty and song to your home, finches may be the perfect choice.
Lovebirds
Lovebirds, as previously discussed, are considered relatively low-maintenance birds. While they do require regular social interaction and mental stimulation, they are less demanding compared to some larger parrot species.
Lovebirds need a well-maintained cage, a balanced diet, and plenty of toys to keep them entertained. Providing them with daily out-of-cage time for exercise and interaction is important for their well-being.
If you have limited time to dedicate to bird care but still want a lively and engaging pet, lovebirds can be a great option.
Intelligent Birds
African Grey Parrots
African Grey parrots, as mentioned earlier, are highly intelligent birds. They possess exceptional cognitive abilities and require plenty of mental stimulation to prevent boredom. African Grey parrots enjoy problem-solving activities, such as puzzles or toys that require manipulation.
They thrive when provided with a variety of toys and activities that challenge their intellect. African Grey parrots have the capacity to learn complex tasks and develop a wide vocabulary. If you’re seeking a bird that will keep you on your toes and constantly amazed by its intelligence, an African Grey parrot may be the perfect match.
Amazon Parrots
Amazon parrots, as previously discussed, are known for their intelligence and ability to learn new tasks and phrases. They are capable of problem-solving and enjoy interactive toys that provide mental stimulation.
Amazon parrots thrive on mental challenges and need regular opportunities to learn and explore their environment. They can quickly pick up new words and phrases with consistent training and reinforcement. If you’re looking for a bird that will constantly impress you with its intellect, an Amazon parrot may be the ideal choice.
Cockatoos
Cockatoos are intelligent birds, known for their ability to learn and mimic speech. They are highly sociable creatures and require regular mental stimulation to thrive. Cockatoos can learn a wide variety of tricks and enjoy interactive toys that provide both mental and physical stimulation.
They are affectionate birds that form deep bonds with their owners and require plenty of social interaction. Cockatoos thrive when provided with a stimulating environment and regular training opportunities.
Cockatiels
Cockatiels, as mentioned earlier, are intelligent birds that can learn to perform tricks and even mimic speech and sounds. They enjoy mental challenges that keep them intellectually stimulated.
Cockatiels thrive when provided with a range of toys and activities that cater to their intelligence. They appreciate training sessions that allow them to learn new skills and are eager to please their owners.
If you’re looking for a bird that is both entertaining and intelligent, a cockatiel may be the perfect choice.
Colorful Birds
Macaws
Macaws, as previously mentioned, are known for their vibrant plumage. They come in a variety of striking colors, from fiery reds to brilliant blues and greens. Their colorful feathers make them truly captivating and add a stunning visual element to any home.
Macaws are often referred to as the “jewels of the rainforest” due to their stunning appearance. If you’re seeking a bird that will bring a splash of color to your life, a macaw is an excellent choice.
Eclectus Parrots
Eclectus parrots are visually stunning, with the males and females exhibiting drastic differences in plumage coloration. Males have vibrant green feathers, while females display a vibrant red or purple hue.
Their colors are so distinct that males and females were once believed to be separate species. Eclectus parrots are truly a sight to behold and can add an element of elegance and beauty to any home.
Lovebirds
Lovebirds, as mentioned earlier, may be small in size but are big on color. They come in a variety of stunning hues, including vibrant yellows, bright greens, rich blues, and passionate reds. Their beautiful plumage is sure to catch the eye and add a pop of color to any aviary or living space.
Lovebirds are truly a visual delight and their various color combinations make them a popular choice among bird enthusiasts.
Quaker Parrots
Quaker parrots, as previously discussed, are known for their charming appearance. They have a predominantly green plumage that is accentuated by vibrant blue feathers on their forehead, wings, and tail.
The combination of green and blue creates a visually striking look that is sure to captivate any bird lover. Quaker parrots are not only colorful but also highly playful and entertaining, making them a delightful addition to any home.
Suitable for Apartments
Canaries
Canaries, as previously mentioned, are suitable for apartment living. They are small birds that don’t require a lot of space, making them an excellent choice for those who have limited living space.
Canaries are relatively quiet compared to some other bird species, and while the males may sing, their song is usually pleasant and melodic rather than loud or disruptive. Canaries can thrive in smaller cages and can bring a touch of nature and tranquility to your apartment.
Budgerigars
Budgerigars, as mentioned earlier, are adaptable birds that can thrive in various living conditions, including apartments. They are small in size and their chirping is generally not loud or bothersome.
Budgerigars can be easily accommodated in a small cage and don’t require as much space as some larger bird species. They are known for their playful nature and ability to entertain themselves, making them an excellent choice for apartment dwellers.
Finches
Finches, as previously discussed, are small and generally quiet birds, making them suitable for apartment living. They don’t require a lot of space and can be easily housed in a small cage or aviary.
Finches are enjoyable to watch as they flit and dart around their enclosure. Their cheerful chirping is generally not disruptive to neighbors. If you’re looking for a compact and low-maintenance bird that can bring a touch of nature to your apartment, finches may be the perfect choice.
Cockatiels
Cockatiels, as mentioned earlier, are medium-sized birds that can adapt well to apartment living. While they may be slightly larger than some other apartment-friendly birds, they are generally quiet and don’t have a loud or piercing call.
Cockatiels can be comfortably housed in a reasonable-sized cage and don’t require as much space as larger parrot species. They are known for their friendly and sociable nature, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a bird that can thrive in an apartment setting.
Family-Friendly Birds
Budgerigars
Budgerigars, as previously mentioned, make excellent family pets. They are social birds that enjoy interacting with their human companions and can form strong bonds with every member of the family.
Budgerigars are typically gentle and can be easily handled, making them a suitable choice for children as well. They are playful and enjoy being part of family activities. Budgerigars can bring a sense of joy and laughter to any household and make a wonderful addition to a loving family.
Lovebirds
Lovebirds, as previously discussed, are known for their affectionate nature and their ability to form strong bonds with their human counterparts. They often enjoy being gently handled and can develop close relationships with every member of the family.
Lovebirds have playful personalities and can provide hours of entertainment for children and adults alike. Their vibrant plumage and interactive behavior make them a popular choice among families looking for a feathered companion.
Cockatiels
Cockatiels, as mentioned earlier, are highly sociable birds that thrive on interaction with their human caregivers. They form strong bonds with their owners and often enjoy being involved in daily family activities.
Cockatiels have friendly personalities and can be very gentle with children. They are relatively low-maintenance compared to some other bird species and can bring a sense of joy and companionship to a family setting.
Quaker Parrots
Quaker parrots, as previously discussed, are highly sociable and can form strong bonds with every member of the family. They are playful and enjoy interacting with children and adults alike.
Quaker parrots can provide endless entertainment and companionship, making them an excellent choice for families. However, it’s important to note that children should always be supervised when interacting with any pet bird to ensure the safety of both the child and the bird.
Conclusion
There are a variety of bird species available to suit different lifestyles and preferences. Small birds like canaries, budgerigars, finches, and lovebirds can bring beauty, song, and minimal maintenance to your home.
Medium-sized birds such as cockatiels, Quaker parrots, conures, and Poicephalus parrots offer more interaction and sociability. Large birds including African Grey parrots, Amazon parrots, Eclectus parrots, and Macaws provide intelligence, stunning colors, and the potential for extensive speech mimicry.
Birds can also be selected based on their social nature, talkativeness, low-maintenance requirements, intelligence, vibrant colors, suitability for apartment living, or family-friendly characteristics. Carefully considering these factors will help you choose the perfect bird to bring joy and companionship to your life.
