I’ve seen the transformation of many bird novices into experts during my career in avian . For beginners, parakeets, cockatiels, finches, canaries, and lovebirds are all great options for a pet bird.
Each of these birds is friendly, a manageable size, and relatively simple to care for. Additionally, each of these birds has a particular set of traits that may make it the ideal pet bird for beginners.
So let’s discuss these top beginner birds and help you choose the best pet bird for you.
Best Pet Bird for Beginners
Parakeets are the most easy pet bird for beginners. These vibrant little birds are also the most popular bird pets in the United States. They’re relatively low maintenance, and they’re a lot of fun to interact with. Additionally, their small size and friendly disposition make them ideal for beginner bird owners.
Cockatiels are a close second. In fact, they’re the number one selling bird pet in the U.S. They’re beloved for their docile nature and ability to learn basic songs.
Finches are another great option for beginners. They’re active and enjoyable to watch, although they don’t live very long (about 5 years).
Canaries are famous for their song. Male canaries, in particular, are famous for their singing. These birds are relatively low maintenance and can live to be 20-25 years old with good care.
Lovebirds are the final bird on our list of beginner birds. These birds are loving and can create strong connections with their owners.
Here’s a brief overview of each of these beginner bird species:
Parakeets (Budgies)
• Lifespan: 5-10 years
• Size: Small
• Temperament: Friendly and social
• Ease of care: Easy
- Cockatiels
- Finches
- Canaries
- Lovebirds
Fun fact: Did you know there are over 200 different canary breeds? Each breed has a unique appearance and personality. I love the variety here because it allows you to choose a bird that aligns best with your preferences and lifestyle.
Essential Pet Bird Care Basics
Proper care is essential to keeping your bird healthy and happy. Let’s discuss the basics you need to know.
Housing needs are the most important aspect of caring for a bird. Your bird’s cage is its entire world, so it should be comfortable and spacious. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Housing needs
• Cage size recommendations
• Perches and accessories
• Cage placement
Nutrition is also a critical aspect of your bird’s health. A good diet includes a high-quality commercial bird food and fresh fruits and vegetables.
Health and hygiene are ongoing tasks. You should ensure your bird gets regular checkups at the vet, clean the cage, and provide fresh water daily.
Exercise and mental stimulation are also important factors to consider to keep your bird happy and prevent boredom. You can do this by providing your bird with plenty of toys and out-of-cage time. If you’re interested in learning more about toys, you may want to consider reading our guide on selecting pet bird toys.
Choosing the Right pet bird for beginners
Choosing the best bird companion for you to begin with lifestyle and commitment. Birds are a long-term pet, and some will live decades.
Space and noise restrictions are key. Many birds can be loud, so ensure you’re comfortable with the possible noise.
Some birds require more handling and playtime. Think about how much time you can offer your new pet bird.
Cost is another factor to keep in mind.
Here’s a look at potential expenses:
- Costs of acquiring a pet bird
- Initial expenses: Birdcage, bird toys, and other items
- Continuous costs: Bird feed, toys and other supplies
- Bird checkups and potential vet emergencies
Keep in mind, pet birds are a major commitment. Take your time selecting the right option for yourself and your future pet bird.
Setting Up Your Bird’s Home
It’s important to provide a safe, comfortable home for your bird, and the cage you choose will be your bird’s primary home. Therefore, the cage must be large enough for your bird to spread its wings and move around.
When selecting cage accessories, the bird needs a minimal set of cage accessories:
- Food and water dishes that are easy to clean and refill
- Several types of perches in different sizes and textures
- A few toys to keep the bird mentally stimulated and provide exercise
When setting up your bird’s environment, the most important factor is safety. Remove any items or hazards from the room where you set up the cage that the bird might chew on or swallow. Additionally, remove any toxic plants or other dangerous items the bird might encounter.
One often overlooked yet important aspect of bird care is lighting and temperature. Birds require natural light exposure cycles and a consistent temperature to stay comfortable and healthy. Avoid placing the bird in direct sunlight or a drafty area, and ensure you can control the temperature of the bird’s room.
Feeding Your Pet Bird
Feeding a nutritious diet is essential to your bird’s health and longevity. Basic dietary requirements vary by species but generally include seeds pellets fruits, and vegetables.
Here’s a quick overview of bird food types:
| Food Type | Description | How Often |
|---|---|---|
| Seeds | High in fat. Offer sparingly. | Daily (small amounts) |
| Pellets | Nutritionally complete. | Daily (primary diet) |
| Fruits | Offers vitamins and some variety. | 2-3 times per week |
| Vegetables | Provides important nutrients. | Daily |
Fresh foods and treats can also be given in moderation to add variety and mental stimulation through eating.
Use a consistent feeding schedule and don’t overfeed your bird. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and health problems.
Birds also create sounds differently than people. They lack vocal cords and instead use an organ called the syrinx located at the base of the trachea.
Health and Wellness for Pet Birds
Keeping your bird healthy requires constant attention and basic care. The most common health problems in pet birds are respiratory issues, nutritional deficiencies, and parasites.
Look out for these signs that your bird is unwell:
- Symptoms of illness
• Changes in droppings or appetite
• Changed posture or ruffled feathers
• Decreased activity or energy
• Discharge from the eyes or nostrils
Regular visits to the vet are essential to catch and treat health problems early. Search for an avian vet near you to provide specialized care.
Bird hygiene and grooming tasks, such as nail trims and access to baths, are also important bird care essentials.
It’s important to note that while bird-related illnesses are rare, psittacosis (also known as “parrot fever”) is a serious illness that can be transmitted from birds to humans. Regular vet check-ups and good hygiene minimize the risk of this disease.
Training and Bonding with Your Pet Bird
Creating a strong relationship with your bird is both enjoyable and rewarding. Teaching basic step-up commands and recall training builds a foundation of trust and communication.
Earning trust and developing a solid rapport with your bird takes effort and patience. Spend time next to your bird’s cage, speaking softly and offering treats.
Birds are social animals, and socialization is essential to their mental health. Gradually introduce your bird to new experiences and people to prevent stress.
Training and taming a bird is a combination of consistency and gentleness. Start with short training sessions and always be respectful of your bird’s limits.
Many parrot species can learn up to hundreds of words. While not all domestic birds talk, you might be surprised by what birds can talk.
Male canaries are especially famous for their singing, which can fill your home with beautiful, melodic sounds.
Challenges of Bird Ownership
While owning a pet bird is a highly rewarding experience, it does have its challenges. Noise can be an issue with larger birds in particular. This is why many bird owners invest in some combination of training, sound-dampening materials, and selecting a naturally quieter species.
Inevitably, managing the mess from a bird is an ongoing chore. The good news is cage cleaning and strategically placed mats can help keep the mess contained.
The time commitment is also substantial. Birds need daily interaction, feeding, and general care.
Finally, birds may develop various behavioral issues. Here are a few common examples:
- Biting: Birds may bite out of fear or because they’re protecting their territory.
- Screaming: Some birds are notoriously loud, which may be due to attention-seeking behavior.
- Feather plucking: A bird may pull out its feathers if it’s stressed, sick, or for no apparent reason at all.
However, each of these challenges can be mitigated with the right training, patience, and in some cases, professional help.
If you’re still concerned about some of the larger birds, consider a small bird pet instead. They’re easier to care for if you live in a small home or apartment.
Despite these challenges, over 5 million U.S. households have a pet bird. With the proper care and attention, birds make excellent pets for many years to come.
wrapping up
Having that potential friend for life is one of the best things about owning a pet bird. You’ve discovered the best beginner birds, basic care tips, and how to create the perfect bird habitat. Just keep in mind that selecting the best bird for your specific daily life is the most important thing.
With the right love, nutrition, and care, your bird will flourish. There’s nothing quite like seeing your bird develop their own unique personality. It’s a beautiful experience full of chirps, feathers, and endless love.
