Some birds will sing you sweet songs. Others will scream like tiny feathered demons.
If you’ve ever dreamed of having a pet bird, hold that thought—because not all birds are beginner-friendly. Some will charm you with gentle chirps and easygoing vibes. Others? They’ll test your sanity with nonstop noise, stubborn tempers, and more sass than a reality show contestant.
It’s not just about pretty feathers or talking tricks.
It’s about finding a bird that fits—one that won’t leave you ducking squawks at 6 a.m. or dodging beak bites every time you clean the cage.
So before you take the plunge into the world of feathers and fluff, let’s break down the best and worst birds for beginners. Because while some of these birds are absolute gems… others might just send you running back to fish.
Budgerigar
The budgerigar, known for its vibrant personality, is a favorite among beginners. This small parakeet is a cheerful companion, often filling the room with its playful chatter. Its ability to mimic sounds makes it an engaging pet, perfect for those who love interaction.
With minimal care requirements, budgies are easy to maintain, thriving on a simple diet of seeds, fruits, and vegetables. Their social nature means they enjoy company, so consider getting a pair to keep each other entertained.
Did you know? Budgies are one of the most popular pet birds worldwide, thanks to their friendly demeanor and affordability.
Canary
Canaries, with their melodious tunes, have charmed bird lovers for centuries. These little songbirds are perfect for those who enjoy listening to soothing music throughout the day.
Though they prefer singing to being handled, their low-maintenance lifestyle makes them ideal for beginners. A spacious cage and a simple diet of seeds and fresh greens keep them happy and healthy.
Fun fact: Canaries were historically used in coal mines to detect toxic gases. Their sensitivity to the environment makes them fascinating companions, enriching any home with their vibrant presence.
Zebra Finch
Zebra finches are lively and social, making them excellent pets for beginners. With their striking black and white stripes and cheerful demeanor, they bring life to any space.
These small birds thrive in pairs or groups, enjoying the companionship of their fellow finches. Their care is straightforward, requiring a balanced diet and a clean cage.
Interesting tidbit: Zebra finches are known for their unique vocalizations, often creating complex songs that vary between individuals. Their delightful chirps can brighten even the dullest of days.
Cockatiel
Cockatiels, with their distinct crests and friendly nature, are a top choice for novice bird owners. These birds are known for their soft whistles and ability to learn simple tunes.
Their affectionate demeanor makes them perfect companions for those seeking a bond with their pet. Cockatiels enjoy social interaction and can even be trained to perform small tricks.
Quirky fact: Cockatiels communicate through a variety of sounds, including whistling and mimicking noises, making them entertaining and delightful pets to have around.
Lovebird
Lovebirds, true to their name, are affectionate and social creatures. These small parrots thrive on interaction with their owners, making them ideal for those who can devote time to daily play.
Their vivid plumage and curious nature provide endless entertainment. However, they can become nippy if not properly socialized, so handling from a young age is crucial.
Did you know? Lovebirds communicate through a series of chirps and squawks, each with its own meaning. Their playful antics and loving behavior make them a joy to keep as pets.
Pionus Parrot
Pionus parrots are known for their calm and gentle nature, making them suitable for novice bird owners. Unlike their louder parrot relatives, Pionus have a quieter disposition.
They enjoy interacting with their human companions and can learn to mimic speech with patience and training. A healthy diet and regular socialization keep these parrots content.
Intriguing note: The Pionus parrot is distinctive for its sweet, musky odor, which sets it apart from other parrots. Their unique traits make them lovable additions to any bird-loving household.
Bourke’s Parakeet
Bourke’s parakeets, with their soft pink and blue feathers, have a gentle and pleasant demeanor. These birds are quiet and peaceful, often enjoying their own company or that of other birds.
They are easy to care for, requiring a diet of seeds, fruits, and vegetables. Their calm nature makes them suitable for households seeking a low-noise pet.
Did you know? Bourke’s parakeets are crepuscular, meaning they are most active during dawn and dusk. Their tranquil presence adds a touch of serenity to any home.
Ringneck Parrot
Ringneck parrots, with their striking appearance, can be both a delight and a challenge. Their intelligence and ability to mimic make them fascinating pets, although they require consistent interaction.
These parrots are known for their independent streak, so early socialization is key to preventing behavioral issues. Providing plenty of toys and mental stimulation keeps them engaged and happy.
Fun fact: Ringneck parrots have been kept as pets for centuries, even by ancient royalty. Their regal demeanor makes them captivating companions for experienced owners.
Macaw
Macaws, with their dazzling colors and large size, are show-stoppers in the avian world. However, their demanding nature can be overwhelming for beginners. These intelligent birds need ample space to thrive.
Macaws require a diet rich in fruits, nuts, and seeds, along with plenty of mental stimulation. Their loud calls can be a challenge, especially in small living spaces.
Did you know? Macaws can live up to 50 years in captivity, forming deep bonds with their owners. Their majestic presence is best suited for experienced bird enthusiasts.
African Grey Parrot
Known for their remarkable intelligence, African grey parrots are not for the faint-hearted. They require constant mental engagement and social interaction to prevent boredom.
These parrots excel at mimicking human speech, often surprising owners with their vocabulary. However, their complex needs make them challenging pets.
Fun fact: African greys are considered one of the most intelligent bird species, with cognitive abilities comparable to a young child. Their demanding nature requires committed owners who can provide the necessary stimulation and care.
Amazon Parrot
Amazon parrots, with their vibrant personalities, can be both entertaining and demanding. These lively birds thrive on interaction and enjoy being the center of attention.
Their vocal abilities are impressive, but their loud calls can be a handful. Regular socialization and training are essential to manage their energetic nature.
Did you know? Amazon parrots have a penchant for singing and can learn a wide range of tunes. Their dynamic presence and complex behavior make them suitable for experienced bird keepers.
Cockatoo
Cockatoos are known for their affectionate nature, yet they demand significant attention. These social birds require daily interaction to avoid loneliness, making them unsuitable for busy owners.
Their strong beaks and curious minds mean they need plenty of toys and mental challenges. Cockatoos are also notorious for their loud, piercing calls.
Interesting tidbit: Cockatoos are highly social creatures, often forming strong bonds with their human companions. Their need for companionship makes them a rewarding yet demanding pet choice.
Eclectus Parrot
Eclectus parrots, with their stunning plumage, are visual wonders. However, their specific dietary needs and social demands make them better suited for experienced owners.
These birds require a varied diet rich in fruits and vegetables and thrive on social interaction. Their calm demeanor can be deceiving, as they are highly intelligent and need constant engagement.
Did you know? Male and female eclectus parrots have distinct color variations, with males sporting green feathers and females donning red and purple. Their unique beauty requires dedicated care and attention.
Quaker Parrot
Quaker parrots, also known as monk parakeets, are spirited and social. Their ability to talk and mimic sounds makes them engaging pets, but their strong personalities require careful management.
These parrots are known for their nesting behavior, often building intricate nests. Providing a stimulating environment with toys and interaction is crucial for their wellbeing.
Fun fact: Quaker parrots build communal nests in the wild, which can house several pairs. Their complex social structure is fascinating, but requires an owner who can meet their interactive needs.
Conure
Conures, with their vibrant colors and lively personalities, are small parrots that pack a punch. These energetic birds thrive on social interaction and can become quite bonded with their owners.
Their playful antics and curiosity make them entertaining pets, but their vocalizations can be loud and persistent. Providing a variety of toys and regular engagement is key to a happy conure.
Did you know? Conures are known for their clownish behavior, often performing acrobatic tricks. Their vibrant presence brings a burst of energy to any home, but requires an attentive owner.
Peach-Faced Lovebird
If you adore a bit of drama with a splash of colors, the Peach-Faced Lovebird is your bird. These charming creatures are not just eye-catching with their vibrant peach and green feathers, but they’re also full of personality. Often seen bouncing around their cage, their playful antics can melt away your stress.
However, they thrive on interaction and can get quite vocal if ignored. They have a knack for forming strong bonds with their owners, making them affectionate companions. Just be ready to dedicate time to this little entertainer.
Fun fact: Lovebirds are known for their monogamous pair bonds, often seen cuddling with their mates. Search for “Peach-Faced Lovebird vivid colors” to see their beauty in action.