Can You Suggest Some Small Birds to Keep as Pets?

Last Updated on October 22, 2023 by Mitch Rezman

When considering small pet birds for ownership, there are several popular and suitable options. These birds are known for their intelligence, adaptability, and ease of care. Here are some of the best small pet bird choices:

Budgerigar (Budgie/Parakeet): Budgerigars are one of the most popular small pet birds. They are friendly, sociable, and relatively easy to care for.

Budgies are known for their colorful plumage and ability to learn tricks and mimic sounds.

The current population of our budgie aviary is 7. We’ve had as many as 12 over the past 7 years.

We take them in with no history, some stay some pass.

Earlier this year we add 3 juveniles to the mix, lots of fun but never again.

Cockatiel: Cockatiels are gentle and intelligent birds, making them a beloved choice for many bird enthusiasts.

They are known for their striking crests, playful personalities, and ability to interact and bond with their owners.

Barney, our grey tiel bonds with no one, he only grimaces and flies away if you offer a finger for a “step up”.

Living with 9 other birds he has gotten more vocal reciting “pretty bird” and wolf whistles first thing every morning.

We had an Albino cockatiel Popcorn for several years that we lost to cancer but she was a real lover and would head butt you until the finger started scratching her head.

Higgins Versele-Laga Safflower Gold Conure Cockatiel No Sunflower 3 lb

Lovebird: Lovebirds are small, affectionate birds that thrive on social interaction. They form strong bonds with their owners and can be quite entertaining with their playful nature and the ability to learn simple tricks.

It’s a myth that lovebirds need to be raised as mated pairs but if you have a solo bird, much like the species we’re going to talk about next they can rapidly become a “flying scissors.”

If you click on the link below, the very first picture is of 2 peach-faced lovebirds residing in a cactus, in Arizona.

Those Lovable Lovebirds – 5 Lovebird Videos

Parrotlet: Parrotlets are tiny parrots with big personalities.

Despite their small size, they possess the intelligence and charm of their larger parrot relatives.

Parrotlets require mental stimulation and social interaction to thrive or they can get very nippy.

Canary: Canaries are renowned for their beautiful singing abilities.

To be clear only male canaries sing so if you get a quiet one it’s not broken, it’s a she.

They are relatively low-maintenance birds, ideal for individuals who prefer a pet with a melodious voice.

Canaries – Nature’s IPods – Why They Sing

Canaries come in various colors and patterns, making them visually captivating.

They can be vicious little birds and males will fight to the death over a female.

This is why you don’t place a mirror in a male canaries birdcage because he will stare down the “other” bird until he drops.

Finch: Finches are small, energetic birds that are delightful to observe.

They are known for their cheerful chirping and can live happily in small cages. Finches are best kept in pairs or small groups to ensure social interaction and enjoy larger aviaries.

Higgins Versele-Laga Worldly Cuisines Inca Bean Microwave In Bag 2 oz

The variety of finch species is vast, here are some examples – Java Finch – Java Sparrow – Gouldian Finch – Double-Barred Finch – Bengalese Finch – Star Finch – Plum-Headed Finch – Strawberry Finch – Diamond Firetail – Parrotfinches – Cut-throat Finch – Lavender Waxbill – Chestnut Munia – Scaly-breasted Munia.

When choosing a pet bird, it’s important to consider factors such as their lifespan, care requirements, space needs, and compatibility with your lifestyle.

Additionally, understanding each species’ unique traits and behavior will help you make an informed decision on the best small pet bird for your ownership.

Keep in mind that providing proper nutrition, ample socialization, mentally stimulating toys, and a safe environment are crucial for the well-being and happiness of any pet bird.

Written and approved by the Windy City Parrot content team

Bonus video!