If your child has asked for a pet bird, there are many factors to consider before making a decision. Birds require proper care, space, social interaction, and attention to their noise levels. Most importantly, choosing a bird species that is gentle and suitable for children is crucial. Some birds thrive on interaction, while others are better suited for observation.
To help you decide, here are seven of the best pet bird species for kids.
1. Finches and Canaries
Finches and canaries are small, low-maintenance birds that make great pets for children who prefer watching over handling.
Why They’re Great for Kids:
- Minimal care required
- Pleasant chirping sounds
- Beautiful and entertaining to watch
Things to Consider:
- These birds should not be handled frequently, as they are fragile and prefer to stay inside their cages.
- They are best kept in pairs or small groups for companionship.
- They typically live between 3 to 15 years.
2. Doves (or Pigeons)
Doves are gentle birds with soft beaks, making them a safe choice for kids who are patient and calm.
Why They’re Great for Kids:
- Friendly and easygoing nature
- Less likely to bite than parrots
- Enjoy human interaction when properly socialized
Things to Consider:
- Doves thrive in pairs and need bird companionship.
- They require some free-flight time outside the cage.
- They have a life expectancy of 10 to 25 years.
3. Lovebirds
Lovebirds are small parrots known for their intelligence and affectionate nature.
Why They’re Great for Kids:
- Playful and interactive
- Less noisy than larger parrots
- Can form strong bonds with owners
Things to Consider:
- They require regular social interaction to stay happy.
- A single lovebird will bond with its owner, but they do well in pairs too.
- Their lifespan ranges from 10 to 20 years.
4. Budgies (Parakeets)
Budgies are one of the most popular pet birds, especially for first-time bird owners.
Why They’re Great for Kids:
- Small and easy to care for
- Can learn to talk and mimic sounds
- Gentle and friendly personality
Things to Consider:
- Budgies enjoy social interaction and require daily attention.
- They do best with toys and mental stimulation.
- They have a life expectancy of 7 to 15 years.
5. Cockatiels
Cockatiels are larger than budgies but still an excellent choice for children who want a more interactive pet.
Why They’re Great for Kids:
- Can learn to whistle, talk, and do tricks
- Playful and affectionate
- Easy to train with positive reinforcement
Things to Consider:
- They require daily out-of-cage time and cleaning.
- Best suited for older kids who can handle birds responsibly.
- They live between 15 to 20 years, with some reaching 30 years.
6. Monk Parakeets (Quaker Parrots)
Monk parakeets, also called Quaker parrots, are highly intelligent and social birds.
Why They’re Great for Kids:
- Medium-sized, making cleanup manageable
- Can learn words and phrases easily
- Playful and fun companions
Things to Consider:
- They need regular interaction to prevent boredom.
- They are excellent talkers and mimic human speech well.
- Their lifespan is 20 to 30 years.
7. Silkie Chickens
Silkies are fluffy, soft chickens that can be surprisingly great pets for children.
Why They’re Great for Kids:
Friendly and cuddly nature
Unique appearance with fluffy feathers
Easy to tame and handle
Things to Consider:
- Silkies do not tolerate heat well but thrive in colder climates.
- They require outdoor space with a secure enclosure.
- Their lifespan is 7 to 9 years.
Important Safety Tips for Choosing a Pet Bird for Kids
Avoid birds with strong beaks – Large parrots can cause severe bites, even unintentionally.
Consider noise levels – Some birds can be extremely loud, which may not be ideal for young children.
Supervise interactions – Always teach children how to handle birds gently and safely.
Meet their needs – Birds require proper housing, companionship, and mental stimulation.
Choosing the right bird ensures a rewarding and enjoyable experience for both your child and their feathered friend. With proper care and attention, birds can make wonderful companions and teach children valuable lessons in responsibility and empathy.
FAQ’s
What is the best pet bird for kids?
Budgies, finches, cockatiels, and doves are some of the best pet birds for kids due to their gentle nature and easy care requirements.
Are lovebirds good pets for children?
Yes, lovebirds can be good pets for older children who can handle them gently. They are intelligent, playful, and form strong bonds with their owners.
Which pet bird is the easiest to take care of?
Finches and canaries are the easiest birds to care for as they require minimal interaction and are best kept in cages with companions.
Do pet birds need a lot of attention?
Some birds, like budgies and cockatiels, need daily interaction. Others, like finches and doves, are more independent and require less handling.
How long do pet birds live?
Pet bird lifespans vary. Budgies live 7-15 years, cockatiels 15-20 years, doves 10-25 years, and some parrots can live over 30 years.
