How to Choose the Pet Bird That's Right for You

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Step 1: Do research
First, and most important, do your research. Take time to learn everything about pet birds that you can—the pros and cons of all the different birds you’re considering.

Tip
Libraries and bookstores have lots of books about pet birds; pet stores have lots of bird magazines; and there are hundreds of bird-related websites online that profile types of pet birds.

Step 2: Determine time commitment
How much time you have available for a bird? Be realistic. Apart from their emotional needs, some birds can be a lot of work to keep clean. Do you work outside the home? Do you travel a lot? Are you busy raising kids?

Tip
Generally, the larger and more intelligent the type of bird, the more demanding it will be. Many parrot owners compare parrots to two-year-old kids in terms of the amount of attention they need.

Step 3: Consider available space
Think about the amount of space you can give a bird. Although every bird should have the biggest cage you can afford, there’s quite a difference between a finch cage and a floor-to-ceiling parrot aviary.

Tip
If you have a small apartment or live near lots of other people, you may be best off with a quiet bird. Some parrot species really like to let loose and scream.

Step 4: Set your budget
Think carefully about what you can afford. Large birds need regular vet visits, but you will have to budget for a budgie, too. If you travel, you will need to pay for boarding your animal or hiring a pet sitter.

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Young children and birds can be an iffy combination—for both the birds and the kids. Big birds mean big beaks, but little birds are fragile and easily frightened.

Step 5: Consider your personality
Last but definitely not least, think about your own personality. What kind of companion are you looking for in a feathered friend? Do you want to train a bird, or just to enjoy watching it?

Step 6: Talk to breeders
If you have questions, talk to bird breeders and owners. Tell them the types of birds you’re considering and why you think they might make a good match. Then it’s time to go make a new fine-feathered friend!

Did You Know?
Nurse Florence Nightingale had a pet owl that she carried around in her pocket.