Popular Bird Species

With over 20.6 million birds in happy homes in the United States alone, according to Statista, our fascination and love for our feathered friends are only growing as the years pass. Their chirps, tweets, and squeaks captivate us, and their adorable looks keep us entertained and delighted.
There are over 8,200 species of pet birds globally, making the task of finding the most popular ones a true challenge! We’ve hooked them in and compiled the best of the best. From canaries to cockatiels, we’ve found the most popular pet bird species that you’re sure to fall in love with as fast as you can say, “Polly want a cracker?”

Green-Cheeked Conure

Also known as the green cheeked parrot or yellow sided conure, this little South American bird has been a popular choice for pet owners for decades. Their quieter nature and affectionate tendencies will keep children and adults happy in the home. 

Daily play, stretching, flying, and plenty of snacks with interactive toys will prevent the common feather picking issues these birds can face when bored. Their intelligence is above average, making for great training and teaching tricks. You will love bonding and caring for these birds!

Cockatoo

These birds have over 21 different species within the Cockatoo family, with an endless array of colors to please any pet bird owner. Originally from the sunny skies of Australia and other Oceania islands, these beauties require more affection than most birds. They are a great choice for children or adults who will dedicate plenty of time talking to and gently holding them. 

Are you looking for a friend to talk to? Cockatoos can learn and mimic words almost perfectly. Their signature look is sure to catch the attention of anyone at home and get the conversation started.

Budgerigar

Budgies are easily the top contender for popular pet bird species and very good reason! Their smaller stature and ability to learn words makes for a great first time or veteran pet owner. As expected for most bird species, Budgies love to play and move often! 

Bring home all the interactive toys and treat toys to keep them happy and avoid temperamental issues like biting, picking, and excessive squawking. Feed these cuties a variety of nuts, seeds, veggies, and food pellets to avoid nutritional deficiencies and health issues. 

Lovebird

If you’re seeking a gorgeously colored and more docile pet bird, Lovebirds may be perfect for you! The widely known myth of keeping two Lovebirds at once is not required; these birds have plenty of energy and can thrive on their own (with an owner who’s excited to play with them)! One of the smallest parrot species, you’ll be right at home with these feathered friends. Apartment dwellers find this species easy to keep with no issues regarding space. Ensure that they’re happy with treats and movement outside of the cage to encourage muscle strength!

Parakeets

They are one of the most popular pet birds for a reason. They are gentle, good-tempered, and make a sweet-sounding tune and whistle. Given the right amount of time and patience, you can teach these beautiful birds tricks, words, and even phrases. They are also known for being low-maintenance in comparison to larger species, requiring less space.

Monk Parakeets, a bird with a long life span (up to 30 years), they ask for a long commitment when you invite them into your home. With their ability to learn a large vocabulary from the words, phrases, and sounds they hear, this parrot variety can be quite entertaining and lively.

Finches

These small birds are known for being good but distant companions, as they are pretty self-sufficient and don’t require as much attention as some other species. (They do like to live in pairs, though.) Finches can be great for those who enjoy watching a charming bird that makes quiet peeping sounds without needing much interaction. They are also known for liking to stay inside their cages.

Doves

With their sweet temperaments, doves can be ideal for older children who are able to interact in a calm, patient manner with them. Doves are companion birds that thrive on positive interaction and bond well – but again; they are mild-mannered.  They also tend to like living in pairs, so you may want to consider whether you are willing to get two or more of them.

African Grey Parrots

Touted as one of the smartest parrots, the African Grey is ideal for those with the time and inclination to interact with these remarkable birds. With their abilities, they require plenty of stimulation, or else they may become despondent and develop behavioral problems. They also outlive Monk Parakeets, living for more than 40 years!

Conclusion

As you see, every pet bird has their own characteristics and requirements, so it’s really a question of what kind of bird fits in with your home environment.

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