Birds make wonderful companions, representing about 2.5 percent of all pets in the United States, with only dogs and cats being more popular. However, new owners may find it challenging to address the needs of their pet birds, as they require specific care and knowledge.
What Makes a Bird Good For Beginners
The best bird for a novice is likely to:
- Need Less Space — For beginners, it would be ideal to choose a small or medium bird that requires a smaller cage, taking up less space. In the case of the birds considered below, a suitable enclosure should be approximately 36 x 24 x 36 inches.
- Be Low Maintenance — First-time bird owners and busy individuals can choose a pet bird that doesn’t require constant attention. Finches and canaries, for example, are largely independent, making them an excellent choice.
- Be Easy to Tame — Training a bird becomes much easier when they respond well to positive reinforcement, making the process enjoyable. For example, budgies and cockatiels are sociable and less skittish, making them great choices for beginners.
- Be Even-tempered — Birds with even temperaments are less likely to bite or show aggression, making them safer and more enjoyable for beginners. Cockatiels, for instance, are known for their gentle nature and usually get along well with both owners and other pets.
- Have a Reasonable Lifespan — Owning birds is a significant commitment due to their long lifespans, so those that live for 5-15 years might be a better choice.
- Make Less Noise — Birds can be very noisy, and it might be difficult for new pet owners to adjust. A pet bird that is less prone to making a racket would be better for a beginner. For instance, finches and budgies tend to make soft or melodic sounds that do not pierce the ears, keeping the noise levels low. On the other hand, cockatiels can be occasionally chatty and moderately noisy while not being too loud. Conures are the only birds on the list that can produce loud, piercing calls, especially at dawn or dusk.
The birds listed below possess most, if not all, of the qualities that make them ideal for first-time pet owners, compared to larger parrots. For example, the Hyacinth Macaw, with its stunning blue plumage and friendly demeanor, may seem like a great choice. But this macaw needs a lot of space, demands constant attention, and can live for over 50 years, making it a challenge even for experienced owners, let alone someone just starting out.
List of the Best Pet Birds For Beginners
| Name | Length (in) | Weight (oz) | Lifespan (yrs) | Noise Levels | Purchase/Annual Upkeep For a Single Bird | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Finches | 3-6 | 0.35-0.5 | 5-15 | Low | $10-$100 | $100-$150 |
| Canaries | 4-5 | 0.4-1 | 10-15 | Low | $80-$400 | $250-$1,500 |
| Parrotlets | 4-6 | 0.8-1 | 15-20 | Moderate | $100-$500 | $300-$675 |
| Budgerigars | 5-7 | 1-1.5 | 5-8 | Low | $15-$40 | $120-$250 |
| Lovebirds | 5-7 | 1.5-2 | 10-12 | Moderate to High | $25-$150 | $200-$500 |
| Doves | 7-12 | 4-7 | 15-20 | Low | $25-$100 | $200-$600 |
| Quaker Parakeets | 9-11 | 3-4 | 20-30 | Moderate to High | $300-$600 | $1,500-$2,500 |
| Conures | 9-20 | 2-7 | 10-30 | High | $150-$500 | $300-$2,000 |
| Pionus Parrots | 11-12 | 8-9 | 25-40 | Low to Moderate | $500-$4,000 | $300-$500 |
| Cockatiels | 12-13 | 2-4 | 12-15 | Moderate | $50-$200 | $200-$350 |
