10 Low-Maintenance Pet Birds That Are Easy to Keep (With Pictures)

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Written by

Dr. Samantha Devine

Veterinarian, DVM

The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.

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Birds are an increasingly popular pet, but some can require intensive commitment to maintain a healthy and mentally enriched bird. On the other hand, some birds are considered easy keepers, needing a clean place to stay, food, and gentle affection.

Let’s look at some birds that can be considered low maintenance.

Important Notes on Keeping Birds

Many parrot species are unfortunately endangered or threatened. Some species are not allowed to be kept as pets in many countries, and international efforts are being made to preserve our parrot biodiversity in the wild. As a responsible parrot parent, you should ensure that your parrot comes from a reputable breeder and has the necessary papers your country requires by law.

Any bird you bring home needs attention, a clean enclosure, food, and specific activities to keep them from getting bored. While some feathered friends need a lot of mental enrichment and attention to avoid destructive behaviors and health issues like feather plucking, others are content to be largely left alone.

The 10 Low-Maintenance Pet Birds

1. Rose-Ringed Parakeets

Parakeets (Psittacula krameri) are small members of the parrot family, and they are believed to be the third most popular pet, just behind dogs and cats. They do generally enjoy the company of people and may want to perch on you while you watch TV or walk throughout the house, but others may be content hanging out on a nearby perch.

2. Budgies

Budgies (Melopsittacus undulatus) are another popular pet bird because of their size and temperament. Additionally, budgies come in a variety of colors, making them a colorful addition to your family. These birds are widely found in pet stores, so it is important to make sure they are obtained ethically.

3. Cockatiels

Cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus) love attention and affection but are relatively small and low-maintenance birds. You might find one that can talk, but they’re more likely to sing to you.

With some time and dedication, you might even be able to get your cockatiel to perform tricks. Toys and time with you are essential, but you generally don’t need all the bells and whistles that you typically need with a larger bird such as a macaw.

• Also Read: Can Cockatiels and Budgies Live Together?

4. Zebra Finches

Zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata castanotis) are considered easy-going and independent birds. They don’t take up a lot of your time but are still beautiful to look at. These birds are easy to purchase and are also commonly used in research settings, where they make excellent models for genetic and ecology studies.

5. Ringneck Doves

You might not think of doves as pets, but ringneck doves (Streptopelia risorii) can make target relaxing bird companions. Their cooing is generally quiet, and while they can enjoy interacting with people, these birds aren’t typically as interactive as parrots or similar bird species.

6. Lineolated Parakeets

Lineolated parakeets (Bolborhynchus lineola), also known as a barred parakeet, belong to the parrot family. They are tiny and don’t take up much space, but they need plenty of daily interactions with their humans. They tend to be quite social, so consider having more than one to help them keep each other entertained.

7. Lovebirds

Lovebirds, particularly the rosy-faced lovebird (Agapornis roseicollis) are popular pet bird choices and can be quite the charmers. They got their name because they tended to bond with another lovebird and form lasting partnerships. They do fine as solo birds if you give them plenty of attention and enrichment. There are several species of lovebirds that can be kept as a pet.

• Also Read: Cockatiel vs Lovebird: Key Differences (With Pictures)

8. Pionus Parrots

There are several species of Pionus parrots, but the blue-headed Pionus (Pionus menstruus) is one commonly kept as a pet. They are compact, quiet birds. They usually do well with a primarily commercial diet and don’t need a great deal of space. While they enjoy being with their people, these birds can also do fine for a few hours each day while you’re at work.

9. Gloster Canary

Gloster canaries (Serinus canaria domestica), also known as domesticated canaries, have a small space requirement, so if you don’t have a lot of room for bird cages and perches, these birds might be the ones for you. Their other requirements tend to be pretty minimal, only consuming small amounts of food and water daily.

• Also Read: 7 Small Pet Birds That You Can Easily Keep at Home!

10. Rainbow Lorikeets

The lovely rainbow lorikeet (Trichoglossus moluccanus) can make a fantastic addition to your home. These birds are colorful and interactive: they enjoy spending time with people and can even learn a few tricks! Lorikeets often live for 10 to 15 years, so you’ll have lots of time with your feathered addition to the family.

Summary

While not everyone thinks of birds as cuddly critters like your dog, they can be very affectionate. While low-maintenance birds on this list are not the larger macaws that might talk to you regularly, these smaller feathered friends can bring great color and entertainment to your home.

See also:

• Black Pet Bird Species You Can Bring Home
• Amazing Facts About Pet Birds

Featured Image Credit: Haris Mm, Shutterstock