Having a pet bird can be a wonderful experience. However, it can also be daunting. If you’ve never owned birds before, you may be worried about how to properly care for them and meet their needs.
This is why it’s best for those new to birdkeeping to get a great beginner bird. These are birds which are low maintenance, aren’t expensive to keep, and are easy to keep healthy and happy. Let’s take a look!
1. Budgie
Perhaps the most common beginner bird is the budgie. Also known as a budgerigar or parakeet, they are small and social birds that can also be quite playful. They love interaction, which means you have to stimulate their minds, but it also makes them great to watch and play with.
Budgies are much loved due to their friendly nature, making them great for families. A large cage won’t be required due to their small size, and they are also low maintenance. Daily exercise outside the cage is required and you’ll also want to give them plenty of toys.
2. Cockatiel
The cockatiel is another popular and beautiful bird. If you want to form a close bond with your birds, these are a great option. Not only are they gentle, but highly intelligent as well. This includes mimicking sounds, and whistling.
A spacious cage comparable to their size is needed, and they will happily live on a balanced diet of seeds, pellets, fruit, and vegetables. Time out of the cage is important, but they also love plenty of attention, including being petted.
3. Canary
Most beginners are better with a low maintenance bird as it helps you get used to requirements of a bird without too much work. The canary ticks that box as they don’t make too much of a mess and are quite small.
They aren’t as social as other birds, making them ideal for those spending time away at work each day. Mental stimulation is required with toys and perches, and they’ll reward you with beautiful plumage and cheerful singing.
4. Zebra Finch
If you plan of getting a spacious cage, the Zebra Finch can be a great option. They are small in size, but highly active and will need letting out of the cage each day. Aside from that, they are low maintenance and it’s great to get a pair of them.
However, three birds or two pairs should be avoided but to how they bond. Any birdwatchers out there will love these animals, as they are playful and curious. Added to that, their easygoing nature makes them great for families.
5. Lovebird
Do you love parrots but don’t have enough space? If so, there are a few great options, including the lovebird. They are one of the most popular birds for a reason. Their beautiful plumage catches the eye, but they are also highly affectionate and can create strong bonds with other lovebirds.
They need plenty of enrichment as they love to climb, play, and mimic sounds. As with all the birds on this list, they need a varied diet and plenty of space. Lovebirds enjoy being handled and will become tamer over time as they get used to your attention.
6. Parrotlet
Another great option for parrot enthusiasts is the parrotlet. This charming bird may be very small, but they have huge characters. You’ll love their playful personalities as they love exploring as well as climbing and interacting with their toys.
Parrotlets can form close bonds with owners, making them ideal pets. You’ll also want to give them plenty of social interaction and time out of the cage. If you do, you’ll be rewarded with a delightful companion.
7. Pionus Parrot
For those looking for something a bit bigger, the pionus parrot is a great idea. These medium birds have a quiet disposition but are very friendly. If noise may be an issue for you, these are less vocal than most other parrots.
A highly intelligent bird, they love foraging, playing with toys, and interacting with humans. They are low maintenance as they are affectionate without being needy. Being a calm and steady bird makes it a real winner for families.
8. Bourke’s Parakeet
Keeping on the theme of parrots, we have Bourke’s parakeet. As above, these are gentle birds that are known for a calm demeanor. They are most active at dawn and dusk, but only partake in gentle activity during the day.
You’ll want to give them plenty of perches and toys for mental stimulation, and as with all of these birds, time out of the cage is required. They form a strong bond with humans but aren’t demanding when it comes to handling, making them a perfect family bird.
9. Green-Cheeked Conure
The green-cheeked conure is a little more attention-seeking than many others on this list, but that makes them ideal for those who want a cute little interactive friend. They are outgoing but also affectional, entertaining, and intelligent.
You can even teach them tricks, and they’ll want plenty of mental stimulation. Unless you want to spend plenty of time with your bird, this isn’t the species for you. But if you give this species plenty of love, they’ll be happy to give it right back.
10. Linnie
Also known as their proper name of the lineolated parakeet, the linnie is a calm bird but one that can also be friendly. Linnies are excellent for families due to their love of human interaction, and they don’t make too much noise either.
They love grooming and will also need plenty of mental stimulation. Make sure you give them plenty of space and exercise outside the cage. They are social birds that will suffer without freedom and love. If you treat them well, you’ll get to enjoy a delightful and engaging companion.
