Choosing the Right Bird Species: The Ultimate Guide for Bird Lovers and Beginners

Find your feathered match – choosing the perfect bird species starts here!

The fun and educational site for parrot loving kids of all ages!

But here's the deal: choosing the right bird ain't like picking a snack at a vending machine. There’s size, personality, care, cost, diet, housing... the list keeps goin’. That’s why this complete guide is here — to help beginners, families, and even seasoned bird owners figure out the real trick in selecting a bird that truly fits their lifestyle.

Let’s flap right in.

Which Bird is Right for You?

Want a Bird but Not Sure Where to Start?

Think about your life. Are you chill? Always out? Got noisy kids? Work late hours? These things matter. Birds aren’t just pretty feathers — they’re real pets with needs, moods, and even sass.

If you’re just starting out, you might wanna go easy. Don’t go grabbing a loud macaw or moody African grey just yet. Budgies, finches, and canaries are like the chill roomies of the bird world — low-maintenance, fun, and super friendly if you treat 'em right.

Here’s what you need to chew on:

• Time – Birds can live a long time. Some parrots hit 50 years! That’s older than your high school gym teacher. Make sure you’re ready for that commitment.

• Space – A cramped little cage? Nope. Birds need room to flap, stretch, maybe even do a lil’ dance.

• Noise Level – Some birds whisper. Others? They SCREAM. Know your noise tolerance.

• Budget – Don’t forget bird food, toys, veterinary visits, and cages. It adds up quick.

• Interaction – Do you want a bird that just sings in the background? Or one that chills on your shoulder like a pirate's pal?

The 10 Best Types of Pet Birds

Best Pet Birds for Beginners

Yup, not all birds are created equal. Some are basically made for newbies. Here's a few that won’t make you wanna pull your hair out:

Budgerigars (Budgies)

• Small, colorful, talkative (kinda)

• Super friendly and easy to tame

• Perfect for kids or first-timers

Cockatiels

• A lil bigger, with fun crests

• Can whistle tunes and mimic

• Loves attention and scratches

Finches

• Tiny, quick, and adorable

• Not really into cuddles, but great to watch

• Live in small groups, low mess

Canaries

• Amazing singers

• Don’t like to be handled, but perfect for peaceful households

Green-Cheek Conures

• A bit more advanced but sweet and playful

• Need attention and toys to stay happy

These birds are your A-team when starting out. Each has its own personality, and it’s about choosing one that suits you best.

Welcome to budgie bliss—choosing a vibrant companion made easy!

Find Birds Near You with the MyRightBird Locator

But hey — don’t just rely on big chains. Local animal clinics, avian vets, or even shelters can help you select a pet bird that’s already looking for a forever home.

Pro tip? Ask if the bird’s been handled, trained, or has any dietary needs. Some birds need specific seeds, fruits, or even sunflower oil in their diets.

Selecting The Right Pet Bird For Kids

Teaching your kids how the proper care works

Got little ones at home? Some birds are absolute sweethearts with kids — others, not so much. The real trick in selecting a bird for children is finding one that’s:

• Calm and friendly

• Easy to handle

• Low on bite risk

Top picks include:

• Budgies

• Canaries

• Cockatiels

Avoid large parrots with strong beaks unless you’ve got experience. And always supervise interaction, especially if the bird’s new to your home.

Show Off Your Beautiful Pet Bird for a Chance to Win up to $500!

Got a gorgeous bird? Enter online pet contests and show off those vibrant feathers. Sites and pet blogs sometimes host giveaways for bird lovers — and that $$ could go straight to more toys or vet care.

And speaking of vets, make sure your bird is checked regularly. Avian veterinary care is essential, and finding a good animal hospital or clinic can save your pet’s life one day.

The Bird Store Rundown: Birds at PetSmart

Yep, PetSmart has birds. Usually parakeets, cockatiels, and finches. But don’t go in blind.

Their PetSmart bird policy includes:

• Proper ID for purchasing

• Info about the bird’s health and origin

• Return policies (usually short window)

Always double-check the bird’s condition, activity level, and feather cleanliness before choosing. Sick birds hide it well — so you gotta be observant.

What Pet Bird Would Be Best for Me?

Ask yourself:

• Can I commit long term?

• Do I want cuddly or hands-off?

• What’s my noise tolerance?

The species you choose should match your lifestyle. Love action and noise? Parrots might be your vibe. Like peace and color? A canary or finch might sing your tune.

Bird ownership is all about balance, so compare breeds, ask breeders, and read guides like this one before you pick.

Find the Right Pet Bird for You

Still torn? There are even online quizzes to help you decide what type of pet bird suits your life. Try searching "what bird should I get quiz" and answer honestly.

You might be surprised — some folks end up perfect matches with cockatiels, others with exotic green parrots or even super social conures.

Remember, the personality of your bird matters way more than just its color or size.

Budgie buddies—tiny hearts, big personalities!

Get Involved with BEAK Today!

Want to go beyond just owning a bird? Get into bird conservation, education, or rescue through orgs like BEAK. It’s a cool way to connect with other bird lovers and learn even more about bird breeds, care, and habitat.

Whether you’re into wildlife, exotic birds, or just want your kids to have the best pet experience — there’s a whole society out there waiting for ya.

Related Answers Section

• What’s the easiest pet bird to keep? Budgies or canaries.

• Do birds like being handled? Depends on the species and how often they’re socialized.

• Are parrots good for apartments? Only if you’re okay with noise and have space.

• Do birds need baths? Yep, some daily, some weekly.

• What do birds eat? Depends on species: seeds, pellets, fruits, greens, and sometimes oils.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose the best bird for my home? Start with your routine. Pick a bird that matches your activity level, home size, and ability to spend time with it.

Are exotic birds harder to care for? Yep. Most need specialized diets, social time, and space. They also cost more to keep healthy.

What’s the best bird for a child? Budgies or cockatiels. They’re small, friendly, and easy to tame with gentle handling.

Where can I adopt birds instead of buying? Check local shelters, bird rescues, or avian-specific rehoming groups.

Do birds need toys? Absolutely. Birds are smart and playful — toys help with mental stimulation and avoid bad habits.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Pet Bird Isn’t About Looks

It’s about heart. Your feathered buddy will share your home, your time, your laughs — maybe even your music taste. So don’t rush it. Explore, compare breeds, visit a clinic, maybe take a fun quiz.

The perfect bird species for you is out there — it just needs the right wingman to bring it home.

So go on. Make the leap. Your bird ownership journey is just beginning. 🐦

Here is a video that might be helpful.