If you’re looking for a new pet, you might be considering a bird. In this article on ‘Best Birds To Have As Pets’ I will discuss the reasons why you want to go for a bird above all the other pets, my top 5 recommendations for pet birds, and additional considerations when choosing among them.
We’ll talk about some of the best birds to have as pets, based on personality type, level of maintenance required, and more. So whether you’re looking for a cuddly companion or a feathered friend to talk to, keep reading.
Ready to start exploring?
This post may contain affiliate links. Affiliate links are great!
Why? Because by purchasing through these links you to contribute to the growth of this website at no cost to you. Basically, you are helping me grow this blog so I can continue help people like you and me become even more awesome!
For more information please see Affiliate Disclosure.
Disclaimer: I am not a parrot expert, therefore the information in this site represents my opinion based on my experience. Please do not make decisions based solely on my articles. It helps to do further research.
Why Should I Get A Pet Bird?
Birds make great pets because they are relatively low-maintenance, don’t require a lot of space, and can be very affectionate.
However, birds can also be very demanding when it comes to their food, and the conditions they live in, depending on their personalities too. Therefore, pet birds might be low-maintenance if compared to other pets for example. But, do not underestimate the level of messiness, noise, or clinginess, they might have.
Related: FIVE THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE GETTING A BIRD
Reasons Why You Should Get A Pet Bird
1. Birds Are Interesting Creatures
Birds are fascinating creatures, and there is a lot to learn about them.
Do some research on the different types of birds available as pets and find one that interests you. You might be surprised by how much there is to learn about each and every type of bird!
2. Birds Are (relatively) Low Maintenance
Birds do not require a lot of upkeep. As long as you provide them with food, water, and a clean cage, they will be happy!
This makes them ideal pets for busy people who do not have a lot of time to spare.
Yet, birds do require interaction time with their “flocks”, which in this case would be us, their human parents. Make sure you can dedicate at least 4-6 hours per day to your feathered friend, be it in cuddles, flying time around the house, or just interaction time.
3. Birds Are Affectionate
Birds can be very affectionate creatures. Many enjoy being petted and will even come to enjoy snuggling with their owners.
Just remember that different species of birds have different personalities, so do your research before making your decision.
4. Birds Are (relatively) Quiet
If you live in an apartment or other type of small living space, a pet bird might be a good choice for you because they are relatively quiet animals.
Of course, this will vary from species to species (and individual to individual), but generally speaking, birds are not known for being particularly noisy pets.
5. Birds Offer Health Benefits
Believe it or not, spending time with your pet bird can actually have some health benefits!
Studies have shown that interacting with birds can lower stress levels and blood pressure, as well as improve mental clarity and focus. So if you are looking for a pet that will offer some mental and physical benefits, a bird might be the right choice for you.
Top 5 Best Birds To Have As Pets
Conures
Conures are lively little birds that are known for their playful personalities and comical antics. They are also very social beings and do best when they have another conure (or another bird) to share their life with.
They can be nippy like parakeets but tend to bond well with their human companions once they become used to them.
Conures require a moderate amount of care and attention and do best in homes with older children who can handle them gently.
They can also be noisy birds, so they may not be the best choice if you have young children or babies in the house.
Conures also require more space than parakeets or cockatiels and need plenty of toys and perches to stay entertained and happy. They require a lot of attention and need plenty of space to fly and exercise, so they are not well suited for small homes or apartments.
If you’re looking for a cuddly little bird that will keep you laughing, a conure might be the perfect pet for you!
Related: GREEN CHEEK CONURE PARROT – HOW DID I CHOOSE?
Budgies
Budgies, also known as parakeets, are one of the most popular pet birds in the world. And it’s no wonder why. Parakeets are small, vibrant birds that are known for being very social and affectionate.
Because they are so social, it’s best to keep at least two parakeets together.
They are also relatively quiet birds, making them a good option for families with young children or babies.
Budgies require a minimum amount of care and space and are a great option for first-time bird owners. Just be prepared for a lot of chirping!
If you’re looking for a bird that will be content sitting on your shoulder or perched on your finger, a parakeet is a great option.
Cockatiels
Cockatiels are small members of the cockatoo family that are known for being affectionate and interactive pets.
They are slightly larger than parakeets but still relatively small compared to other types of pet birds.
Cockatiels are very friendly and can even learn to mimic human speech. They can be trained to do tricks and enjoy being petted, making them a good choice for families with older children who can handle them gently.
They also tend to be less nippy than parakeets.
However, they do require more space than parakeets and need plenty of toys and perches to keep them entertained. Yet, they can be easily potty trained to stay within a certain area of your home using positive reinforcement methods such as treats or praise.
Finches
Finches are small, delicate birds that make beautiful additions to any home. They come in a wide variety of colors and patterns and are known for their melodious singing voices.
Finches do best in pairs or small groups and require a minimum amount of care; however, they are not as interactive as some other pet birds and may not bond as closely with their owners.
They don’t require a lot of space, making them a good option for small homes or apartments.
Macaws
Macaws are large, stunningly beautiful parrots that make popular pets thanks to their outgoing personalities and ability to mimic human speech.
While macaws can be very affectionate companions, they require a lot of care and attention; if left alone too often, they may become depressed or even pluck out their own feathers. They are known for being very affectionate but can also be quite nippy.
Macaws also require a lot of space as well as plenty of toys, perches, and playtime out of their cage since they are such active birds. If kept in too small of an enclosure, they may become aggressive or stressed out.
Macaws have very specific dietary needs and require special care when it comes to their feathers—both potential drawbacks worth considering before making such a long-term commitment.
Overall, macaws make great pets for people who are willing to put in the time and effort necessary to take care of them properly.
Other Considerations When Choosing Your Pet Parrot
Now that you know my top 5 picks for the best birds to have as pets, how do you choose the right one for you and your family? Here are some things to consider:
Size Of Your Home
Not all birds require a lot of space, but some need more room than others to fly and exercise properly. Be sure to consider the size of your home before choosing a bird species so that you can provide them with the environment they need to thrive.
Have You Considered The Below Products?
 | PARROT BIRD CAGE | Check out this article for the Pro's and Con's of the Yaheetech / Prevue Parrot Bird Cage | ||
 | JAVA TREE PARROT PLAYSTAND – PRODUCT REVIEW | Check out this article for the Pro's and Con's of the Java Tree Parrot Playstand | ||
 | BIRD LADDERS PERCHES – PRODUCT REVIEW | Check out this article for the Pro's and Con's of the Bird Ladder Perches | ||
 | PARAKEET SWING – PRODUCT REVIEW | Check out this article for the Pro's and Con's of the Parakeet Swing | ||
 | K&H BIRD CAGE WARMER REVIEW | Check out this article for the Pro's and Con's of the K&H Bird Cage Warmer |
Amount Of Time You Have To Spend With Them
All birds need some amount of time out of their cage each day so that they can stretch their wings and explore, but some require more time than others depending on their activity level and social needs.
If you work long hours or travel frequently, choose a bird species that doesn’t require as much attention so that they can still receive the care they need when you’re not around.
Noise Level Tolerance
Some birds like to vocalize frequently while others are relatively quiet.
Consider how much noise your family is comfortable living with before choosing a particular bird species.
Allergies
Feathers carry dander just like pet hair does, which can trigger allergies in some people. Be sure everyone in your family is comfortable around feathers before bringing a feathered friend home!
Prepare Your Home For Your New Pet Bird
Once you’ve found the perfect bird for your family, it’s time to prepare your home for your new feathered friend. Birds need ample space to fly and exercise, so make sure you have enough room in your home for a large cage or aviary. You’ll also need to purchase some basic supplies, like food, water dishes, perches, and toys.
Be Prepared For Some Noise
Last but not least, be prepared for some noise!
Birds are vocal creatures and some can be quite loud, especially early in the morning. If you’re not an early riser, you might want to reconsider getting a pet bird!
Last Thoughts
Birds make wonderful pets! They are low maintenance, highly intelligent, and very entertaining. If you’re looking for a new companion, definitely consider getting a bird.
With the above top five best birds to have as pets, which one is right for you? It’s important to consider factors like size, lifespan, activity level, dietary needs, behaviour, as well as your own lifestyle when choosing a pet bird. With so many wonderful options available, there’s sure to be a perfect match out there for everyone!
Have you chosen your favourite bird? Do you already have a feathered companion? Let me know in the comments below!
To all the Parrot Lovers,
Tatiana
Founder of Best Parrot Toys
Spread These Thoughts:
Thanks
Dear Ben,
Thank you for dropping by and you are very welcome.
Have a great day,
Tatiana
Great review, thanks.
Dear Jildert,
Thank you for dropping by and for your comment!
All the best,
Tatiana