Beginner’s Guide to Choosing Your First Parrot

How to Make a Responsible Decision as a Beginner Parrot Keeper

Thinking about getting a parrot but not sure which species to choose first? You’re not alone. Many beginner bird keepers face the challenge of a wide variety of choices and often conflicting advice. This article will help you understand the most important factors so you can make a responsible decision — whether you dream of a small parrot or a large, majestic species.

The most common advice: “Start with a budgerigar!”

On bird forums and social media groups, beginners are often told: “Start with a budgie or a cockatiel!” These species are indeed great choices — they’re friendly, adaptable, and easy to learn from. However, that doesn’t mean they’re the only suitable options for beginners. What truly matters isn’t how “difficult” a parrot is, but the environment and care you can provide.

Videos vs. Reality – A “Talking Parrot” Isn’t Always a Good Idea

Many people start out with a clear idea in mind — they want a talking parrot that’s friendly, affectionate, quiet, and not too big. After watching a cute video of an African Grey or an Amazon parrot, it’s easy to fall in love — until reality sets in: sexual maturity, behavioral issues, and the need for several hours of daily attention. It’s at this point that many new owners start looking for “a better species.” But this uncertainty can be avoided if you choose your bird not based on viral videos, but on the real living conditions and time you can provide.

First, take a look around your home – what can you really provide for your parrot?

This is the most important question. No matter which species you’re considering, first evaluate the following:
– How much time can you spend with your parrot each day?
– Can you provide a large aviary or safe free-flight space for your parrot?
– Can you provide a varied, species-appropriate diet for your parrot?
– Do you have a calm, well-lit and safe place for your parrot in your home or garden?
– What will happen if you have to travel for a longer period of time?
If your answers are realistic and well thought out, you’re already on the right path to a balanced and successful parrot-keeping experience – even as a beginner.

Small or large parrot? It’s not the size that matters, but the environment you can provide.

A smaller parrot species – such as a lovebird or a Pyrrhura conure – is easier to accommodate and can thrive even in limited space. Their diet is simpler to manage, and with proper care and socialization, they become affectionate and intelligent companions.

Large parrot species – such as African Greys, Macaws, or Cockatoos – require significantly more space, attention, and food, and they can also be much louder. They often need a dedicated bird room or an outdoor aviary. With these parrots, long-term commitment and careful planning are even more important.

Summary – The key to a good decision is knowledge and realistic expectations

There is no truly “beginner-friendly” parrot species. A bird that’s perfect for one person may be too noisy, too shy, or too demanding for another. The key is to realistically assess what you can provide — and to be sure that you truly want to share your life with a parrot for the long term, not just now, but for the next 10–30 years.

If you do that, you can choose almost any species — even as a beginner.