Reptile & Amphibian Forums

hiya!

Ive been seriously considering a bird, but i need some advice on which species would be best for me. Ive been looking at lovebirds and budgies. Can you name any other species that are nice. what species is the best for bonding to. Im looking for a little buddy.

also, how far away from the stove does a bird have to be, to be safe from fumes.

-tyrel-

(sorry, the question mark isnt working)

As far from the stove as possible. My birds are actually relatively close (I live in a small apartment) and we`ve never had a problem, but it`s never a bad idea to put distance between the kitchen and the birds. I also recommend lots of ventilation. Open windows, use the fan, and throw out the teflon!

All birds bond, and there is a large number of smallish bird species. Lovebirds, budgies, cockatiels, parrotlets, senegals (and the other poicephalus), conures (pyrrhura or aratigna), etc... Which species is best depends on that personality that appeals to you, the noise level you can tolerate, and the price range you`re dealing with.

Budgies are cheapest. Budgies and parrotlets use the smallest cages and smallest toys, which can save you money. Both are high energy and playful. Parrotlets can have bossy, big-bird attitudes. Many people said their parrotlets act like little amazons (and amazons are their closest relatives). Budgies and parrotlets will also be among the quietest species. Parrotlets can be hard to find, but budgies are readily available. Their personalities are actually vastly different, but it`s so hard to put it into words. I simply can`t describe the difference. You`ll have to meet them and see which you prefer.

Lovebirds are sassy and playful. They`re also fairly small and quiet.

Cockatiels are a favorite of mine. They can be shrilly obnoxious, but their trusting and cuddly nature can make up for it. They`re less playful and energetic then budgies, parrotlets and lovebirds.

The poicophelus are fun. A little bit bigger and more expensive... They can be very cuddly and tolerate being touched anywhere. They`ll often happily lay upside down in your hand. They can be very nervous, though, and need to be properly socialized to avoid phobic and fearful behaviors.

Conures are widely varied. The aratigna are LOUD, but colorful, playful, cuddly and friendly. I prefer the pyrrhura, though. They`re much quieter and I think they`re best described as mischievous. They`re the most mischeivous birds I`ve ever seen! They`re notorious for nipping and biting though so you have to be prepared to deal with that.

Honestly, no one can choose a bird for you. You have to read as much as you can, meet the birds, and start narrowing things down.