National Pet Bird Day is celebrated every year on Sept. 17 to honor the joy that feathered friends bring into our lives. Established in 2019 by the Bird Enjoyment & Advantage Koalition (BEAK), this holiday raises awareness about responsible bird parenting while uniting bird lovers everywhere.
Whether you’re a lifelong bird enthusiast or simply curious about adding a feathered friend to your family, choosing the right species is the first step. Birds vary widely in size, personality, and care needs, so finding the perfect match for your household and lifestyle is key.
Here are the top 10 pet bird species that make great companions, along with tips for selecting the right one for you.
Budgies are one of the most popular pet birds in the world, and for good reason. These small, colorful parrots are affordable, easy to find, and come in a wide variety of bright feather patterns. They’re naturally social and enjoy spending time with their owners. With patience and gentle handling, many budgies learn to mimic words and short phrases.
Cockatiels are adored for their gentle nature and signature crest feathers. They’re excellent whistlers and can be trained to mimic simple tunes. Unlike larger parrots, cockatiels are lower-maintenance, making them a great starter bird for families. They love head scratches, spending time perched on shoulders, and being part of household activities.
Despite their small size, lovebirds are bursting with personality. These lively little parrots thrive on companionship and often bond deeply with their humans—or with another bird if kept in pairs. They’re playful, curious, and enjoy exploring, but they do need consistent interaction to remain happy.
Conures are known as the comedians of the bird world. With their clownish antics, playful energy, and affectionate personalities, they can quickly become the center of attention. Many conures enjoy cuddling, learning tricks, and engaging with toys. However, they are also known to be quite vocal, which may not suit every household.
Often called the “Einstein of birds,” African Greys are highly intelligent and excellent mimics, capable of learning hundreds of words and sounds. They’re deeply sensitive and form strong bonds with their caretakers, requiring a lot of mental enrichment and interaction. When cared for properly, they thrive as loyal, fascinating companions.
Cockatoos are famous for their affectionate personalities and dramatic crests. Often nicknamed “velcro birds,” they thrive on human interaction and can become deeply attached to their owners. They’re playful, love cuddles, and can be trained to perform tricks. However, their need for near-constant attention makes them better suited for owners who are home often.
Parrotlets may be tiny, but they pack a big punch when it comes to personality. These miniature parrots are bold, curious, and enjoy exploring their environment. They don’t require as much space as larger parrots, making them suitable for smaller homes or apartments. With training, they can learn tricks and develop close bonds with their owners.
Macaws are the giants of the parrot family, renowned for their vibrant plumage and larger-than-life personalities. They are highly intelligent, affectionate, and can live for over 50 years, making them true lifelong companions. Their size means they need large enclosures and plenty of daily interaction. They’re best for experienced owners who can commit to their complex needs.
Canaries are beloved for their cheerful songs and bright feathers. Unlike many parrots, they don’t crave constant handling, making them perfect for people who prefer a more hands-off pet. They’re relatively low-maintenance, requiring a spacious cage, a nutritious diet, and enrichment through toys or perches.
Finches are small, active birds that thrive in groups. They’re not typically hand-tamed, but their lively flocks provide endless entertainment. Finches love flying, so they need a roomy cage with horizontal space to move around. Their gentle chirping and colorful appearances make them delightful to watch.
Match your lifestyle: Busy professionals may do better with canaries or finches, while social butterflies may thrive with cockatiels or conures.
Consider noise levels: Some birds (like macaws and cockatoos) are very vocal, while others (like parrotlets or finches) are quieter.
Think long-term: Many parrots can live decades—sometimes even longer than dogs and cats.
Adopt responsibly: Choose ethical breeders, rescues, or adoption centers to ensure your new companion has a healthy start.
National Pet Bird Day is the perfect reminder to show appreciation for our feathered friends. Celebrate by:
Choosing the right bird companion is just the first step—caring for them properly is what helps them truly thrive. Responsible bird parenting is about organization and consistency, from scheduling vet checkups, finding a reputable sitter or bird boarding facility, to keeping track of feeding routines and enrichment activities.
That’s where Revelation Pets can help. Our cloud-based pet business software is trusted by bird boarding businesses, exotic pet groomers, and pet parents to simplify scheduling, streamline communication, and ensure every feathered friend gets the attention they deserve. Whether you run a bird-focused business or care for a flock at home, tools like Revelation Pets make it easier to stay organized and provide the best possible care.
On this National Pet Bird Day, let’s celebrate the joy birds bring while committing to their long-term well-being—with the right resources by your side.
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