Best Birds for First-Time Owners
Forgiving, straightforward breeds for anyone taking on this kind of pet for the first time.
← All pet bird species (12)5 entries
Budgerigar (Budgie)
Small, bright and full of personality — the perfect introduction to bird ownership.
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 0.9–1.4 oz (25–40 g)
- Lifespan
- 5–15 years
Cockatiel
Whistling, crested and genuinely affectionate — the best first parrot there is.
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 2.8–4.2 oz (80–120 g)
- Lifespan
- 15–25 years
Green-Cheeked Conure
Big parrot personality at a volume a flat can survive.
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 2.1–2.8 oz (60–80 g)
- Lifespan
- 20–30 years
Canary
A songbird to listen to rather than handle — quiet, undemanding and centuries in the making.
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 0.5–1.1 oz (15–30 g)
- Lifespan
- 10–15 years
Zebra Finch
Busy, chattering and best kept in company — a flock bird, never a solo pet.
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 0.4–0.6 oz (10–16 g)
- Lifespan
- 5–9 years