Before You Buy...
What Size Bird is Best for You? - As a rule, the bigger the bird, the bigger the commitments involved with keeping it. Large birds can make exceptional companions, but are often louder, messier, and more demanding than smaller species. For these reasons, it is generally recommended that novice bird owners start out with a small to medium sized bird. The size of your bird will be important in determining how you will care for your pet, as far as training, housing requirements, and overall interaction. Before you buy a pet, it's important to think realistically about how much bird you can handle.
Behavior and Temperament - Do you want a bird that will be eager to come out of his cage and socialize, or would you prefer a pet that likes to be seen but not touched? The way your bird relates to you will be an important factor in the quality of your ownership experience. Keeping this in mind, it is important to note that different species of birds exhibit various behavior patterns and dispositions. A Blue and Gold macaw will behave quite differently from a Sun Conure, for example. Those in the market for a pet bird should make sure to research the species that they are interested in so they can choose the bird whose personality will be most compatible with their own.
Nutrition and Maintenance - Some birds require specific diets or other special care. While there are countless good reasons to buy a pet bird, issues like this are why it is so important for potential owners to learn as much as they can about their favorite species before bringing one home.
Budget and Finances - Keeping a bird can be expensive, and much of that expense can be related to the type of bird involved. Larger birds have a larger initial purchase price, and these big birds usually require costlier cages and accessories. Even smaller birds, while often less expensive initially, still come with financial obligations. Birds can live a very long time, and those that own them are responsible for feeding, housing, and providing them with care throughout their lives.
Time Commitments - Some bird species require daily exercise, interaction, and time out of their cages. Are you able to spend time each day to socialize with your bird? If not, a smaller, more independent species like a Finch or Lovebird may be best for you. To ensure that your pet stays healthy and happy, you should consider how much time you have available to spend with your bird while deciding which breed you would like to own.
For those that put a little effort into selecting a pet that will be compatible with their lifestyle, bird ownership can be a tremendously enriching experience. A little research and careful thought can go a long way in making sure that your relationship with your pet is destined to be a good one. By keeping these important tips in mind, you are sure to make the right decision about which species will be best for you and your family.
Parakeet – The common Parakeet, or Budgerigar to be exact, makes a wonderful pet for children or those who are new to keeping birds as pets. These hardy little jewels come in an array of beautiful colors, and require less space and maintenance than larger bird species. They are quite intelligent in spite of their small size, and while most are content to whistle and sing, some have been known to learn a word or two. Average life expectancy is 12 to 14 years.
Cockatiel – These medium sized birds are simply a delight to keep. Members of the parrot family, these Australian natives are known for their surprisingly advanced whistling and singing abilities. While Cockatiels are capable of learning to talk, many owners find that their birds prefer to whistle, and tend to mimic quirky, random sounds such as the ringing of a telephone. These birds are available in increasingly diverse color combinations and have an average life expectancy of between 15 and 20 years.
Sun Conure – Sun Conures are another popular species of bird. At 12 inches in length, Sunnies require less space than a larger parrot. The colorful birds display plumage of red, orange, yellow, blue, and green. Some Sun Conures grow to become great talkers. The average life expectancy of a Sun Conure is between 20 and 35 years.
Macaw – There is probably no other tropical bird so "tropical" as a macaw. Whether we see them on travel posters, tropical shirts, or airline commercials, we immediately think of lush, exotic, and far-away places. But why go far away? A macaw, aside from being colorful, can also be a loyal, loving, lifelong companion.
Larger birds are also vigorous chewers. Keep this in mind if you have heirloom furniture – it is a bird's favorite hobby. Acquiring a baby macaw is the best bet, although a weaned baby is best, especially if you've never hand-fed before. Buying from a breeder is generally the safest course, because they have dealt with the birds right from hatch-date. They will also usually offer a health guarantee, advice, and are available to help if you have problems. The life expectancy of a macaw may easily reach 70 years.
Do you know what this is?? 
African Grey – African Greys have been said to be the most intelligent of birds, some boasting vocabularies of up to 2,000 words! Because these birds are so smart, they tend to be verydemanding pets, and will get bored quickly if not stimulated. If you are looking for a highly intelligent and affectionate friend, however, the African Grey may be right up your alley. Greys typically live 50-70 years.
If you are thinking about adding a pet to your family, it's important to keep in mind your lifestyle and living situation so that you can choose a pet that will be compatible.
Perhaps you are live in an apartment, you are unable to take a pet outside for daily walks, or simply crave a companion that will be a little less common than a cat or dog. If you feel like a furry friend might not quite fit what you are looking for, read on for the top ten reasons that a bird would make a wonderful pet!
1) Birds are intelligent animals.
In the animal kingdom, birds rank near the top when it comes to smarts. Their capacity for learning and inquisitive nature makes them fascinating, captivating pets. Birds that are bonded with their owners constantly learn from the person's behavior, and often delight them with surprisingly human-like antics. Think about it: when is the last time a dog looked up at you and said "Hello"?
2) They are relatively easy to care for.
As opposed to four-legged pets that typically roam free within their owners homes, birds are much easier to care for. They can be placed inside their cages when you are at work or busy, they don't require daily walks outside, and housebreaking is not an issue. Many people prefer the convenience of cleaning a cage to scooping a litter box or having to go for walks outside every few hours.
3) Birds are fairly simple to train.
Because of their above average intelligence, birds can be a joy to train and are typically eager to learn new things from their owners. Since birds are relatively small, training them can be less physically demanding than working with larger creatures, making them a good choice for the young, elderly, or disabled.
4) They require minimal grooming.
Birds are naturally very hygienic animals, and they preen their feathers daily to keep them shiny and clean. Rather than having to deal with smelly shampoos, flea baths, and expensive haircuts, bird owners can usually maintain their pet's health and good looks with a quick nail trim now and then and a shower of plain water once or twice each week.
5) Birds are extremely social creatures.
If you want a pet that will bond strongly with you, a bird is a wonderful choice. Given proper training and socialization, birds can be every bit as loving and affectionate as a cat or dog. Many pet birds are inseparable from their owners, some even accompanying them on daily errands such as trips to the bank or grocery store.
6) Birds are fairly inexpensive to feed.
It's important to provide pet birds with a high quality pellet diet, but they can also benefit greatly from foods that their owners share with them. When you serve fresh fruits or vegetables in your home, you can set a portion aside for your bird's meal. This provides the pet with additional nutrients and variety, and allows owners to "stretch out" the commercial diets they buy. Just make sure that the foods you share with your pet aren't toxic to birds, such as avocado or chocolate!
7) They can be kept in a small space.
Small bird species, such as budgies, canaries, and finches, make wonderful pets for those who live in apartments or condominiums with limited space. While larger pets require extra room to romp and play, a small bird's cage can easily fit into a cozier living space.
8) Birds are not considered "pets" at most rental properties.
Owners of rental property often impose monthly "pet fees" on tenants that have cats and dogs. Most landlords, however, do not consider birds to be pets, effectively relieving bird owners of the extra charges. For this reason, a bird can be a very economical choice for renters who wish to adopt a pet.
9) Pet birds are attractive to look at.
Obvious as it may seem, the aesthetic value of owning a bird should not be underestimated. It was, after all, a bird's beauty that attracted mankind to them in the first place. Birds display beautiful colors and comical behavior patterns that are interesting to watch and have even proven to lower stress levels in individuals! It can't be denied that birds bring a certain life and vibrancy to the homes that they grace.
10) They are long-lived companions.
Those who have experienced the heartbreak of losing a long time pet are often not eager to repeat the process any time soon. Many bird species live extraordinarily long lives, some living more than 100 years! This often eases the concerns of people who want to make sure they adopt a pet that they can love and enjoy for a very long time.