List of Talking Birds

Some bird species are natural mimics. Birds such as the cockatiel, cockatoo, parakeet and mynah will repeat words or phrases that their owners say. However, some varieties of parrots are not only capable of imitating human speech; they have the cognitive ability to understand the meaning of the words.

  1. African Grey Parrots

    • African Grey parrots are among the most articulate species of talking birds. These birds have been extensively studied by Irene Pepperberg, an avian researcher. Dr. Pepperberg's studies with a parrot named Alex show that African Greys are not only capable of mimicking human speech, but they have the cognitive ability of a 5-year-old child. African Greys are about 12 inches long when fully grown. Their feathers are soft gray, with bright red tail feathers. Pet Bird Page warns that these birds need a great deal of attention and mental stimulation, and they are notorious for plucking out the feathers on their chest if they become bored or depressed. African Greys normally live between 50 and 70 years.

    Double Yellow-Headed Amazons

    • According to Pet Parrots Web, Double Yellow-Headed Amazons are exceptional talkers. These birds range in size from 15 to 17 inches, and they are usually bright green with a yellow head. These birds enjoy being the center of attention and will willingly entertain their owners, but they may scream if they feel they are being ignored. The Double Yellow-Headed Amazon has a 60 to 80-year life span.

    Blue Fronted Amazons

    • Blue-Fronted Amazons are also excellent talkers. The Blue-Fronted Parrot website notes that these birds are between 13 and 15 inches long and have green feathers with blue foreheads. They are capable of learning a wide variety of words. They can learn to use phrases within the correct context. For example, if you ask the bird, "How are you today?" the bird will respond with a phrase, such as "Just fine, thank you!"

      Blue-Fronted Amazons have a lifespan of 40 to 80 years.

    Yellow-Naped Parrot

    • Yellow-Naped Parrots are usually bright green with a patch of yellow on the back of their necks. They are between 12 and 15 inches when fully grown. According to Avian Web, they are impressive talkers because of their ability to imitate human vocal intonations. These birds should be carefully trained and supervised when kept as pets, as they have a tendency to chew, bite and scream. They can live between 50 and 60 years.