These pet birds are some of the easiest and friendliest companions you can have, even if you’re just starting out. I’ve always enjoyed how a few birds love to chatter and play, while others stay calm and content just being close.
You don’t need a huge setup or endless training sessions; many of these birds are low-maintenance and naturally affectionate.
In this post, you’ll learn:
- Which birds are best for beginners
- How much care and space do they need
- What makes each bird easygoing and social
If you’ve ever thought about bringing a bird home but weren’t sure where to start, this guide is for you.
I’ll help you understand which birds are the best fit for your lifestyle, so you can enjoy a peaceful and happy bond with your new feathered friend.
Understanding What Makes a Pet Bird “Easy” or “Friendly”
When I say a pet bird is “easy,” I mean it doesn’t need constant attention, is adaptable to new environments, and stays content with simple care.
These birds are fairly quiet, eat simple diets, and need only small spaces and minimal training.
“Friendly” birds, on the other hand, are social and enjoy gentle interaction; they like being around people and often form real bonds with their owners.
Before choosing one, think about your daily routine and living space.
Some birds thrive in quiet apartments, while others do better in busy homes. Also, consider their lifespan; some live only a few years, while others can be lifelong companions.
The best choice is a bird whose care needs and energy match your lifestyle and the time you can truly give.
Top Friendly Pet Bird Species for Beginners
If you’re new to bird keeping, start with species that are social, gentle, and easy to care for. These birds adapt well to home life and enjoy bonding with their owners without needing complex care routines.
1. Budgerigar (Budgie or Parakeet)
Budgerigars, or budgies, are small, bright, and friendly birds known for their curious nature and talkative habits.
They come in a range of beautiful colors, including green, yellow, blue, and white, with a sleek body and long tail feathers.
These birds are social and intelligent, often learning to mimic words and simple sounds. Budgies enjoy spending time with their owners and do well in pairs or small groups.
They’re active but low-maintenance, making them perfect for beginners who want a cheerful, interactive pet without demanding care.
- Weight: 1.1–1.4 oz (30–40 g)
- Length: 7 inches (18 cm)
- Lifespan: 5–10 years
- Diet: Seeds, fresh vegetables, leafy greens, and fortified pellets
2. Cockatiel
Cockatiels are gentle and affectionate birds, easy to recognize by their soft gray bodies, orange cheek patches, and tall yellow crests that rise when they’re curious or excited.
They’re known for being calm, affectionate, and playful companions.
Cockatiels love to whistle tunes, mimic everyday sounds, and enjoy sitting on their owner’s shoulder. With regular handling, they grow very tame and loyal.
Their small size, quiet nature, and gentle temperament make them great for beginners and families seeking an easy, friendly pet.
- Weight: 2.8–3.5 oz (80–100 g)
- Length: 12–13 inches (30–33 cm)
- Lifespan: 10–15 years
- Diet: Pellets, seeds, fresh fruits, and vegetables
3. Lovebird
Lovebirds are small, colorful parrots with a stocky build and short tails, often seen in shades of green, peach, blue, or yellow.
They’re famous for their affectionate personalities and strong pair bonds, often cuddling close to their partners or favorite people.
Though tiny, lovebirds have big energy and love to play, explore, and chatter.
They thrive with daily attention and gentle handling. With consistent care, they become friendly, affectionate pets that bring joy and activity into any home.
- Weight: 1.4–2 oz (40–60 g)
- Length: 5–7 inches (13–17 cm)
- Lifespan: 10–15 years
- Diet: Pellets, seeds, fruits, and leafy greens
4. Green-Cheeked Conure
Green-cheeked conures are small to medium-sized parrots with green bodies, maroon tails, and bluish flight feathers, often accented by a grayish head and red belly.
They’re playful, affectionate, and intelligent, thriving on human interaction and gentle training.
Unlike many parrots, they’re fairly quiet, which makes them great for apartment living. Green-cheeked conures love to snuggle, learn tricks, and spend time perched on their owner’s shoulder.
Their curious, loving nature makes them one of the best birds for beginners who want an affectionate and fun companion.
- Weight: 2.2–2.6 oz (60–75 g)
- Length: 10 inches (25 cm)
- Lifespan: 10–15 years
- Diet: Pellets, fruits, vegetables, and seeds
5. Parrotlet
Parrotlets are tiny, vibrant parrots with compact bodies, short tails, and bright green plumage often highlighted by touches of blue or yellow.
Despite their size, they have bold, confident personalities and act like big birds in small bodies.
Parrotlets are intelligent and curious, quickly bonding with their owners through daily handling and gentle interaction. They like learning small tricks, but stay happy even in a limited space.
Their playful, affectionate temperament makes them a wonderful choice for small homes or first-time bird owners.
- Weight: 1 oz (28 g)
- Length: 4–5 inches (10–13 cm)
- Lifespan: 15–20 years
- Diet: Pellets, fruits, vegetables, and a small portion of seeds
6. Canary
Canaries are small, graceful songbirds known for their bright yellow feathers and cheerful tunes.
They don’t crave much handling, which makes them perfect for people who prefer a calm, low-maintenance companion.
Males are especially known for their melodious singing, adding a soothing background sound to your home. Canaries enjoy observing their surroundings and staying active within their cage.
With simple care and a proper diet, they remain healthy and lively for years, bringing gentle joy to any space.
- Weight: 0.5–1 oz (14–28 g)
- Length: 5–6 inches (13–15 cm)
- Lifespan: 10–15 years
- Diet: Canary seed mix, fresh greens, vegetables, and small portions of fruit
7. Zebra Finch
Zebra finches are tiny, energetic birds recognized by their gray plumage, orange beaks, and the zebra-like stripes on their necks and chests.
They’re friendly, social, and thrive best in pairs or small groups.
Known for their pleasant chirps, zebra finches make great pets for beginners who enjoy watching birds interact rather than handling them often.
They’re easy to care for and adapt well to indoor environments, needing only a clean cage, fresh food, and space to flutter.
- Weight: 0.5 oz (15 g)
- Length: 4 inches (10 cm)
- Lifespan: 5–9 years
- Diet: Finch seed mix, egg food, fresh greens, and small bits of fruit
8. Dove (Ring-Neck or Diamond Dove)
Doves, especially the Ring-Neck and Diamond varieties, are gentle birds known for their calm demeanor and soft cooing.
They have sleek gray or light brown feathers, with the Ring-Neck dove featuring a distinctive black collar marking.
Doves are peaceful and affectionate, often bonding closely with their owners when treated kindly. They enjoy quiet environments and gentle interaction rather than excessive handling.
Their soothing sounds and relaxed nature make them wonderful companions for those seeking a peaceful household pet.
- Weight: 4–6 oz (110–170 g)
- Length: 10–12 inches (25–30 cm)
- Lifespan: 10–15 years
- Diet: Seeds, grains, fruits, and leafy greens
9. Quaker Parrot (Monk Parakeet)
Quaker parrots, also called Monk parakeets, are bright green birds with gray chests and expressive eyes. They’re known for their intelligence, playful energy, and impressive talking ability.
Despite their medium size, they’re easy to train and enjoy socializing with people.
Quakers love interactive play and can learn to mimic words and sounds quickly. With regular bonding time, they become affectionate and loyal pets.
They do best with owners who can give them daily attention and mental stimulation.
- Weight: 3.5–4.5 oz (100–130 g)
- Length: 11–12 inches (28–30 cm)
- Lifespan: 20–30 years
- Diet: Pellets, fresh fruits, vegetables, and seeds
10. Pionus Parrot
Pionus parrots are medium-sized birds with glossy feathers that shimmer in shades of blue, green, and bronze. They’re calm, gentle, and far quieter than many other parrot species.
Known for their affectionate but independent nature, Pionus parrots enjoy companionship but don’t demand constant attention.
They adapt well to family environments and are less prone to mood swings than other parrots.
With patience and kindness, they form deep, trusting bonds with their owners and make steady, long-term companions.
- Weight: 8–9 oz (225–260 g)
- Length: 10–12 inches (25–30 cm)
- Lifespan: 25–30 years
- Diet: Pellets, seeds, nuts, fruits, and leafy vegetables
11. Lineolated Parakeet (Linnie)
Lineolated parakeets, or Linnies, are small, calm birds with green feathers marked by fine black and blue lines.
They’re quieter than most parrots, making them ideal for apartment living. Linnies love to perch on shoulders, explore gently, and form close bonds with their owners.
Their calm and friendly nature, paired with low noise levels, makes them perfect for first-time bird keepers who want a relaxed, social companion.
- Weight: 1.9–2 oz (55–60 g)
- Length: 6–7 inches (15–18 cm)
- Lifespan: 10–15 years
- Diet: Pellets, fresh fruits, leafy greens, and seeds
12. Senegal Parrot
Senegal parrots have striking green, yellow, and gray plumage with a calm, affectionate personality.They’re medium-sized birds that enjoy human company without demanding too much attention.
Senegals are intelligent, steady, and easy to train, often forming deep bonds with one or two family members.
They’re quieter than most parrots and love smaller spaces, making them a good match for beginners seeking a loyal and gentle pet.
- Weight: 4–5 oz (120–140 g)
- Length: 9 inches (23 cm)
- Lifespan: 25–30 years
- Diet: Pellets, fruits, vegetables, and a small amount of nuts or seeds
13. Caique
Caiques are medium-sized parrots with vivid plumage, usually white on the belly and orange, green, and yellow across the body.
They’re energetic, clownish, and always ready to play, earning the nickname “the acrobats of the parrot world.”
Caiques love attention and social time, often entertaining their owners with funny movements and hopping behavior. Though lively, they’re affectionate and easy to train, making them fun companions for active bird lovers.
- Weight: 5–6 oz (140–170 g)
- Length: 9–10 inches (23–25 cm)
- Lifespan: 25–35 years
- Diet: Pellets, fruits, vegetables, and limited seeds or nuts
14. Bourke’s Parakeet
Bourke’s parakeets are gentle, pastel-colored birds with soft pink and blue feathers that give them a peaceful look.
They’re quiet, calm, and very easy to care for, which makes them ideal for beginners. Bourke’s parakeets are not overly demanding and enjoy both human company and alone time.
Their mild temperament and soothing chirps create a relaxing environment, perfect for those wanting a peaceful, low-maintenance pet.
- Weight: 1.5–1.7 oz (40–50 g)
- Length: 7–8 inches (18–20 cm)
- Lifespan: 10–15 years
- Diet: Seeds, pellets, fresh greens, and soft fruits
15. Meyer’s Parrot
Meyer’s parrots are small African parrots with a compact build and a beautiful mix of green, blue, and yellow feathers.
They’re gentle, quiet, and affectionate, known for their steady temperament and easygoing nature. Unlike some parrots, Meyer’s don’t need constant attention and adapt well to a daily routine.
They bond deeply with their owners and respond well to kind, patient handling, making them a great choice for beginners who want a loyal, calm pet bird.
- Weight: 3.5–4 oz (100–120 g)
- Length: 8–9 inches (20–23 cm)
- Lifespan: 20–30 years
- Diet: Pellets, seeds, fruits, nuts, and fresh vegetables
The Cost of Owning a Pet Bird: What to Expect
Owning a pet bird can be affordable if you plan ahead. The first costs include buying the bird itself, a proper cage, basic food, and a few toys to keep it entertained.
Depending on the species, this setup can range from modest to pricey.
After that, you’ll need to budget for regular expenses such as bird feed, cage cleaning supplies, and the occasional vet checkup.
Annual costs can add up, but they’re manageable with some planning.
You don’t have to spend a lot to give your bird a good life. Simple, safe toys and homemade perches can work just as well as store-bought ones.
Buying food in bulk, cleaning regularly, and staying consistent with care help you save money while keeping your feathered friend healthy and happy for years.
Beginner Bird Training Basics: From Step-Up to Simple Tricks
Training your bird is more about trust than strict rules. With time, patience, and small daily efforts, even shy birds can become confident and social companions.
- Start with daily interaction: Spend a few minutes each day talking softly to your bird. Consistency helps it feel safe and comfortable around you.
- Teach the “step-up” command: Use your finger or a perch and gently say “step up.” Reward your bird with a treat or praise when it obeys.
- Use positive reinforcement: Offer small rewards for calm behavior or progress. Birds respond better to kindness than force.
- Build trust gradually: Avoid sudden movements or loud noises. Let your bird come to you at its own pace.
- Keep sessions short: End on a good note to keep your bird engaged and happy to learn.
Conclusion
Choosing the right pet bird isn’t about finding the most colorful or talkative one; it’s about matching a bird’s nature to your lifestyle and the care you can give.
Start small if you’re new to bird care, and take time to understand your bird’s unique personality.
Every species has its quirks, but with patience and daily attention, you’ll build a bond that feels truly special. Birds respond to gentle handling, routine, and respect.
Over time, they become more than pets; they become part of your day-to-day life.
Whether you want a quiet companion or a chatty friend, there’s a bird that’s perfect for you. Ready to find your match?
Begin your search for the easiest and friendliest pet birds and add a little joy to your home today.
