Birds have been kept as pets for centuries due to their beautiful colors, unique personalities, and melodious songs. Whether you’re a first-time bird owner or a seasoned enthusiast, there’s a type of pet bird out there for everyone. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most common and beloved types of pet birds. This guide will help you make an informed decision on which type of bird to bring home.
Songbirds (Finches)
Songbirds, also known as passerines, are a popular category of pet birds known for their beautiful melodies and chirping. These birds are often kept for their vocal abilities and pleasing sounds. Songbirds are typically small in size and have a unique vocal system that enables them to produce complex and melodic songs. Some popular breeds of songbirds that are often kept as pets include canaries and European goldfinches:
While most songbirds are known for their melodious songs as the Canary and the European goldfinch, not all of them sing beautifully. Some species have more harsh or monotonous calls. It’s important for potential bird owners to research the specific species they are interested in to learn more about their vocalizations and other characteristics.
Other common songbirds or finches kept as a pet besides goldfinches and canaries are zebra finch, society finch, and ava finch:
Overall, songbirds make excellent pets for those who enjoy their delightful singing and vibrant personalities.
Parrots as Pets
Parrots have their unique appeal as pets, and they are highly sought after by bird enthusiasts. Their ability to mimic human speech and their playful nature makes them excellent companions. African Grey parrots are famous for their talking ability, but other species like Amazon parrots, Cockatoos, and Macaws can also be skilled talkers.
Hobbyists may choose to own a parrot for a variety of reasons, including its colors or appearance, intelligence, personality, size, ability to talk and mimic sounds, or a combination of these factors. Other popular parrot species include budgies conures, and lories.
Doves
Doves are gentle, peaceful birds that are known for their soft cooing sounds. They are social creatures that enjoy the company of their owners, but they can also be kept in pairs or groups. Doves require minimal care, making them a great choice for those who want a low-maintenance pet. They come in a variety of colors and are often used in religious ceremonies and events. Diamond Doves, Ringneck Doves, and Bleeding Heart Doves are all commonly kept as pets.
- Diamond Doves are small, peaceful birds known for their gentle nature and beautiful plumage.
- Ringneck Doves are larger and have a distinct ring of feathers around their necks. They are calm and make lovely companions.
- Bleeding Heart Doves have a unique appearance with a red patch on their chest resembling a bleeding heart. They are native to the Philippines and may require more time to bond with their owners.
These doves are relatively quiet, suitable for apartment living, and enjoy the company of their owners. Providing them with a balanced diet, regular interaction, and a comfortable living environment is crucial for their well-being.
Bleeding Heart Dove image by Cuatrok77, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.