Pet Bird Varieties

The decision to bring a pet bird into the household should only be made after careful consideration and much research. While different varieties of birds may have vastly different care requirements, all birds need serious time and attention devoted to them to maintain proper health and well-being.

  1. Parrots

    • Parrots are by far the most demanding type of pet bird available, and the most expensive. These highly intelligent animals require perhaps more time and effort than even a dog would. Their social nature means that they must be provided with stimulation and interaction or they can develop behavioral and health problems. Most parrot species are colorful, and they all posses very strong, curved beaks that they use to crack open seeds and nuts and to climb and manipulate items. Parrots need plenty of toys and chewable items to prevent destructive behavior. Some species, such as the African grey or cockatoo, can live up to 70 years in captivity.

    Parakeets and Cockatiels

    • Parakeets and cockatiels are smaller species of parrots that are widely available at most pet stores. It is important to note that just because these birds are small does not mean that they necessarily require less attention or time than their larger cousins when kept in captivity. However, these varieties of birds are more manageable when kept in a small community or aviary setting, where the presence of other birds of the species can help alleviate the need for constant human attention. Parakeets in particular make excellent aviary birds and are available in a wide range of beautiful and exotic colors.

    Canaries and Finches

    • Canaries and finches are much less maintenance-intensive than parrots, take up less space and are significantly quieter. In fact, their soft warbling chirps and songs make them excellent apartment companions, where a parrot's loud squawks would most likely be unwelcome. Canaries and finches should always be kept with companions of their own type, and generally do not appreciate much handling.

    Doves and Pigeons

    • Pigeons and doves are intelligent and gentle community birds with a well-developed homing instinct that has made them popular as pets and sport birds for centuries. While they generally require a large indoor or outdoor aviary to be properly maintained, they are very hardy and easy to care for. Doves and pigeons are noted for their quiet demeanor and soft, melodic cooing. Several varieties of doves and pigeons are available on the pet market, including the ring neck dove and diamond dove and several beautiful color morphs of pigeons.