5 Best Small Pet Birds (With Picture)

Small pet birds are easy to care for and they don’t need a large space. Find the best small pet birds for you. From budgies to canaries, explore top choices for friendly, easy-to-care-for feathered companions.

Is your residence in a compact area? Are you interested in exploring beyond cats and dogs and bringing home a unique pet? Do not search any longer than these small pet birds. These fluffy animals are frequently as snuggly as cats and as loving as dogs. Even more so, they can often be trained to whistle and even speak!

Pet bird lovers who want small pet birds that are easy to care and don’t need a lot of space may find small birds to be a charming choice.

Below is a compilation of best small pet birds to contemplate :

1. Budgerigar (Budgie)

The Budgerigar, also known as the parakeet, is possibly the most common pet bird globally and is recognized as one of the top talking parrots. It is said that a budgie holds the title for having the most extensive vocabulary among birds, with 1,728 words in its repertoire. The sole issue? It can be extremely difficult to listen to them because of their tiny voices. It can be the best small pet birds for you.

They are very active birds, especially when compared to their Australian relatives, the cockatiels. It’s not uncommon to observe them hopping between bird perches, hitting a bell as if they’re mad at it or scattering their parrot food to locate their preferred bits. When they rest for a nap, make an effort to eavesdrop: They frequently rehearse the words and sounds they’ve acquired while sleeping.

Parakeets are among the rare parrots where distinguishing males from females is usually straightforward. Male birds have ceres that range in color from blue to purple, which is located above their beaks where their nostrils are situated. Female birds have ceres that range in color from brown to pink, with occasional hints of blue. Unfortunately, young parakeets cannot be sexed using this technique because their cere changes colors when they become sexually mature. Male budgies can occasionally have pinkish ceres which is influenced by their overall coloration. To determine the identity of your parakeet, the most effective method is to utilize a DNA test.

In pet stores, the American budgie is frequently seen. They possess slender bodies and are available in a range of colors, including blues, greens, whites, and yellows. Wild Australian budgerigars are closer in size and features to American parakeets, rather than English budgerigars that are larger. English budgies are usually the birds that people see in exhibitions and shows, however they are equally suitable as pets

Information about the species

Mass: 1 ounce

Size: 6 to 8 inches

Physical Appearance: Available in different colors like neon green, yellow, blue, violet and others with black stripes on the head, wings and back.

Life expectancy: With proper care, a pet budgie can survive for 7 to 15 years.

2. Cockatiels

Cockatiels rank as one of the top pet bird choices in the United States. These adorable parrots have a smooth texture because of powder down, which assists in making their feathers waterproof. Cockatiels are among the most laid-back small pet birds, equally happy whistling in front of a mirror or sitting on your shoulder.

Male cockatiels are also impressive whistlers, as seen in cockatiel videos on YouTube, and have the ability to learn various songs. Women may not whistle as extravagantly as men, but they are just as loving and affectionate.

Common Cockatiel Colors

Albino Cockatiels

Lutino Cockatiels

Gray Cockatiels

Cinnamon Cockatiels

Pied Cockatiels

Pearl Cockatiels

Information about the species

Mass: 3 ounces in total

Size: Adults range in size from 12 to 13 inches in length.

Physical Appearance: Female cockatiels are very gentle, while males are skilled at mimicking sounds such as phones, alarms, and outdoor birds. Additionally, be aware of their whistle – if they whistle at you, it is a form of flattery as they only whistle at things they admire.

Life expectancy: The lifespan of a pet cockatiel can extend to 15 – 20 years with adequate love and care. Occasionally, these birds can survive for up to 30 years.

3. Canaries

If you like to have less responsibility in taking care of animals, a canary might be the perfect choice for you. Despite their typical reluctance to be handled, canaries can still win over anyone’s heart with their sweet songs and gentle personalities.

During spring, the male birds are impressive singers, filling the home with their lovely songs.

Having two male canaries will make them compete to see who can sing the best song. Nevertheless, the pair must be kept in individual aviaries to prevent them from fighting while breeding. During periods when they are not breeding, it is possible to house them in the same space, although it is not advised.

Female canaries do not sing, however, they do produce delightful chirping sounds. Contrary to males, females can coexist without any issues. Prevent mixing male and female canaries to avoid breeding baby canaries.

Canaries can be found in a range of colors, including bright red, pure yellow, brown and yellow, and pure white. There are also various canaries with different types of feathers: Some have smooth plumage, while others have feathers resembling a mop top.

Information about the species

Mass: Under 1 ounce.

Size ranges : from 4 to 8 inches.

Physical Appearance: These beautiful birds can come in yellow or green, vibrant orange or brown. Famous for their bright hues and musical talents.

Life expectancy: Canaries usually have a lifespan of 9-10 years when properly looked after, but there are instances where they can live for 15 years or more!

4. Finches

Finches have been owned as pets for an extended period. The Bengalese or society finch is recognized as the first bird that was domesticated and remains well-liked in present times.

Finches, similar to canaries, are easy to care for pets that can bring joy to any home. Known for their vibrant music and melodies, as well as their diverse array of colors and characteristics, they have gained popularity.

Looking after them is simple and they usually live for around ten years. The zebra finch is a popular type of finch recognized for its bright orange beaks and cheek patches on male birds, usually gray and white. Society finches are known for their sociable behavior, whereas Lady Gouldian finches stand out for their bright colors. Unlike canaries, finches prefer to have company.

Information about the species

Mass : Between 0.5 and 1 ounce.

Size ranges : the majority of finches measure between 3 and 10 inches in length.

Physical Appearance: Finches are tiny, friendly birds that are happiest when kept in pairs or small flocks.

Life expectancy: Wild finches typically have a lifespan of 2 to 3 years, while pet finches can live for 5 to 15 years if properly cared for.

5. Parrotlet

Parrotlets, also known as “pocket parrots”. Similar to the large Amazon parrot, parrotlets are known for their bold, playful personalities and desire for attention. They require adequate attention, as they are known to become snappy if not trained correctly. They are energetic birds and need to be let out of the cage for several hours daily.

Pacific parrotlets, the tiniest of the parrot family, are vibrant, delightful, and smart. Known as “pocket parrots” due to their preferred hiding spots, these birds are gaining more popularity as pets. Their compact size and peaceful demeanor make them a perfect option for individuals residing in apartments or condos or those lacking room for a bigger bird. Some individuals may become skilled at conversing effectively, despite not being recognized as chatty individuals. They make great companions and lovable pets.