Many people want pets, but not everyone wants to take care of them like they would another human if you are looking for an animal that keeps you company but requires minimal attention.
Then, owning one of the best low-maintenance pet birds may be just what you need! Check out this list of the best low-maintenance pet birds.
1. Budgies
Suppose you’re looking for a bird that doesn’t require much attention.
If it is relatively easy to care for, then budgies (also known as parakeets) may be your best bet.
They typically live about 10-20 years, making them ideal for people who want to make a long-term commitment.
Lastly, keep one of these best low-maintenance pet birds happy and healthy.
You should provide it with lots of toys and fresh water daily. And don’t forget to socialize with humans early on!
2. Pionus Parrots
If you’re looking for the best low-maintenance pet birds, look no further than Pionus parrots.
These little guys love to be handled and cuddled. But will otherwise stay relatively quiet (which isn’t always true of parrots).
Moreover, Pionus loves their owners and need to spend time with them.
They can handle cold weather as long as they have a large cage. Or a roomy aviary and plenty of playthings.
Also, they are incredibly resilient when getting over an illness; most will shake off a short condition in short order and never act sick.
3. Macaws
Although they can be a little more demanding than some other best low-maintenance pet birds, they’re also one of a few parrots that make better pets.
Mainly, they need more space and a dedicated owner. But you can take them to parks and shops without drawing as much attention. They love human interaction, too!
However, the blue and gold macaw is a long-lived bird, sometimes living for up to 80 years in captivity.
She’s also an excellent talker who speaks clearly in two or three different languages.
Hence, you must commit to taking your Macaw out of its cage daily.
Otherwise, it could begin spending too much time on its own and develop poor communication skills. These parrots tend to be very affectionate towards their owners.
Further, they generally get along with other household pets. They tend to develop soft calls rather than loud screeches when trained correctly.
4. Cockatiels
The cockatiel is one of those pets that are fun to have around.
They don’t require a lot of space, and they can entertain themselves while you’re not at home. They love people and make great starter pets.
Lastly, if you want to start small with your birdy friend but still have time for other activities because of their smaller size and lower upkeep requirements, then go for one of these best low-maintenance pet birds.
5. Finches
There are many types of finches, some of which are highly social. At the same time, others can be pleased on their own.
Besides, these birds love to climb and fly around in cages, making them great pets for kids. Or those who don’t have a lot of free time.
So, if you want a bird that is easy to take care of but still beautiful, look at it.
A finch may be just what you’re looking for, and some popular species include Society Finches and Gouldian Finches.
Thus, be sure to do your research before purchasing any of these best low-maintenance pet birds. As different species require different amounts of attention.
6. Lovebirds
Lovebirds, also known as Loving Parakeets, are among some of the recommended best low-maintenance pet birds you can own.
These little African parrots are superb for beginner bird owners who need a new pal. But don’t want to spend a lot of time maintaining them.
They will make your life brighter by chirping, singing, and dancing. You might find one that suits your fancy or fits into your lifestyle better than those pesky finches.
If you’re considering getting a bird but have heard they require a lot of attention and care. Then think again!
7. Parakeets
These types of best low-maintenance pets have a reputation for being incredibly smart. So why not keep one as a companion animal?
More so, Parakeets can be taught to speak and even whistle tunes.
They bond strongly with their human owners and do well in social situations. They’re also straightforward to care for.
However, Parakeets need only a cage, a changing area, healthy food, and clean water. With proper care and handling, parakeets can live more than 15 years!
8. Canaries
While most people go for big, showy parrots and macaws, you don’t need a zoo-sized cage or years of specialized training to keep canaries happy.
To start with, Canaries enjoy interacting with humans in short bursts throughout their day, making them the best low-maintenance pet birds for busy people who aren’t home much.
They have been known to sing in response to human speech (though they won’t hold a long conversation).
Suppose you live alone but still want a bird that can talk back without much attention. Look no further than your friendly neighborhood canary.
While they may not sing opera like those guys in The Yellow Canary, they attract admirers. Because of their beautiful yellow and green feathers
9. Quaker Parrots
The Quaker Parrot, also known as Myiopsitta monachus and Monk Parakeet, is a parrot native to South America. It is a reasonably large parrot with primarily green plumage.
Of course, they’re common in captivity due to their calm demeanor. And the ability to communicate using human speech.
Notedly, these best low-maintenance pet birds are one of only two Psittacidae species that can speak properly, and the other is a Ring-necked Parakeet.
Lastly, Quaker Parrots belong to a different family than true parrots. That is, Fringillidae, which also includes linnets and indigobirds.
10. Doves
The dove parrot, also known as the little lorikeet, is one of Australia‘s most popular exotic birds. The dove has a slender black beak, long legs, and bright red eyes.
Like most doves and lorikeets, they have an extremely high-pitched sound. And can make all sorts of noises, from whistles to mimicking other animals’ sounds.
Unlike other best low-maintenance pet birds, Doves are often used in zoos due to their hardiness and ability to adapt quickly to captivity.
But in turn, it requires a significant amount of space for flying around.
Lastly, Doves eat fruits primarily. But also enjoy pollen when it’s available.
11. Amazon Parrots
Amazon Parrots are said to be among the best low-maintenance pet birds and are on a list that includes 20 other birds.
The large Amazons, small Amazons, and Meyers can make great pets for those willing to care for them properly.
While they are not as easy to train as some other species, many people like their bold personalities. And the ability to mimic human speech.
Smaller birds tend to live longer than larger ones, making them an attractive option if time is essential.
Also, they have been documented talking earlier in life. Then some other bird species.
Nonetheless, larger parrot species are not usually recommended for novice owners because they require more attention and space.
12. Parrotlets
The Parrotlet is a member of the Psittacidae family and is a small bird. It comes in bright colors, including yellow, orange, blue, and green.
Besides, the average lifespan for a Parrotlet ranges from 8 to 15 years with proper care.
Pet owners often compare it to a hummingbird due to its small size. A Parrotlet generally weighs between 0.6 oz (17 g) and 1 ounce (28 g).
In addition, these best low-maintenance pet birds are not very demanding on their diet and only require healthy fruits and vegetables daily. Along with high protein, pellets stay happy and vibrant.
13. Lineolated Parakeets
Most people that want to own birds wish for a bird that is easy to care for.
The best low-maintenance pet birds, especially among beginners, are cockatiels, lovebirds, and budgies.
Undoubtedly, these birds are adorable and colorful. But they require a lot of attention and extra time spent with them. A good alternative would be Lineolated Parakeet (Linnie).
On the other hand, Linnies don’t need much attention at all. They’re very active in their cages, so they get plenty of exercise when playing with toys—or perching on branches and talking to other pets like cats and dogs in your house.
Indeed, most pet owners will agree that Lineolated Parakeets have a lovely voice. However, it might not sound as great as some other best low-maintenance pet birds.
14. Bourke’s Parakeets
Bourke’s Parakeet is also known as Bourke Parrot and Black-eared Parrot. They are endemic to Australia, and they are rarely seen in aviculture.
I would say that these best low-maintenance pet birds don’t make great pets because of their extremely wild instincts.
But some people have kept them as pets in a free-range environment with relative success.
Alternatively, it’s said that they may be hard to tame if kept as pets. So only experienced bird keepers should attempt to support them.
However, it should be noted that these birds can live for quite a long time when cared for properly. Up to 45 years!
As a result, it might be worth investing some time into taming your pet, Bourke’s Parakeet, if you have lots of time and patience.
