Choosing the right pet bird is easy if you match your expectations with the bird's needs. There are lots of features, requirements, costs, and risks to consider.

Before you choose a pet bird, do your homework and choose one that’s appropriate for you. Here are some things to think about.

Personality

Birds can be high strung, demanding, and manipulative, or they can be gentle and calm. Some like interaction and cuddling; others remain in the cage. Choose a species that fits your own personality, and if you have children, be sure to choose an even tempered species with low biting potential.

Appearance

Many people appreciate colorful or frilly pet birds. Most cage birds are beautiful, but some, such as grey parrots and mynahs, are fairly plain. These birds can still make good pets—consider how high a striking appearance is on your priority list.

Independence

Some birds require considerable interaction, especially when kept as single pets. Others are independent and don’t need a lot of attention. The amount of time you spend at home and the time you have to devote to your pet bird should inform your choice.

Ability to Talk

One of the most appealing things about birds is their talking ability, and bird species that excel at this are popular pets. Not all pet birds can talk however—if you want one that does, choose a species known for this ability.

Space Requirements

Cage birds have widely different space requirements. Their needs range from relatively small indoor cages to large outdoor aviaries with room to fly and exercise. Be sure you can provide the space your bird will need.

Life Expectancy

Some birds, particularly the smaller ones, live only a few years, but others live for 80 years or more. If you choose a bird that may outlive you, you’ll need to ensure its continued care in later years.

Cost

The initial cost of a bird varies widely, depending on the species. Beyond this, however, there are other costs: a cage, toys, food, and ongoing veterinary care. Some birds are messy and destructive, leaving you with cleanup and repair costs. Calculate a reasonable budget for your bird before you buy.

How Many Birds?

Many people keep one bird; some want several or a flock. It’s important to consider which species do well alone, which do better with others, and which are incompatible with other birds. Make sure you choose one that will be happy with its family.

Noise Level

There are cockatoos that scream in the morning and loud-talking conures. Doves gently coo, canaries sing, and lovebirds are shrill. What noise level can you tolerate? Consider family members and neighbors too, especially if you’re planning an outdoor aviary.

Diet

Birds have quite specific dietary requirements: they don’t thrive if fed the wrong foods. Some need fresh fruit and vegetables; some eat nuts; others enjoy live food. Before choosing a bird, research its recommended diet and ensure you can provide.

Health Issues for Both You and Your Bird

Try to purchase a bird with a health guarantee, and ensure that the bird was bred locally or legally imported: smuggled birds carry diseases and may become ill or infect other birds. Be aware, too, that certain species are susceptible to cancer, iron storage disease, and other health problems. Be prepared to deal with these risks and the possible associated costs.

Some birds, including cockatoos, have powder-down feathers that disintegrate to a dusty substance. This powder is a problem for pet bird owners with asthma or other respiratory diseases.

Sources:

Birds Off the Perch. Lachman, Larry, Diane Grindol, and Frank Kocher. New York: Fireside; 2003.

The Complete Pet Bird Owner’s Handbook. Gallerstein, Gary A. Minneapolis: Avian Publications; 2003.