Nothing is further from the truth. Although some birds are quiet - many are definitely not quiet and the sweet little Conure at the pet store can, and will make as much noise as a large Macaw. Seed is not even recommended as a food for your bird, except for a treat sometimes and the water dish may have to be cleaned several times a day.
Before actually going shopping for your new pet, you absolutely MUST research the needs of the different types of birds. Everyone knows the beautifully singing Canary, but there are several different types of Canaries. Some Canaries are known for their singing and some are known for their looks. What about a Parakeet? Everyone knows about Parakeets, but what many people call a Parakeet is actually a Budgerigar or Budgie and the different sizes & types of Parakeets will amaze you. Then there are the little finches to consider. So many different types & colours - maybe a few different ones would be nice, but they may not all get along together.
Oh - but you want a talking parrot. Well, the Budgie is a great talker and so is the Cockatiel. In the larger parrots, good talkers are African Greys, some of the Amazons, Eclectus, some of the Conures as well as more that I do not have personal knowledge of. But, what if you choose one of the best types of talking birds, and you get one that does not talk. What would you do then? If all you wanted was a talking bird & the bird doesn't talk, would you then decide that you don't want this bird? Another thought is that many birds that have the ability to talk, also have the ability to scream.
Birds have long lifespans. Some of the larger parrots can live 50 years or more with proper care. Are you prepared to provide for this bird for his entire life and are you willing to make sure that this bird will be looked after if he lives longer than you do?
One more consideration is veterinary care. Avian medicine is more complex and requires a veterinarian trained in avian care. This translates to a higher cost in taking your bird to a veterinarian compared to taking your dog to a veterinarian.
Every week, I receive calls from people who are looking for new homes for their birds, even though I do not rescue birds. The reasons given range from the bird is too noisy, the bird is biting, the bird is plucking, they do not have enough time to spend with the bird, they are having (or just had) a baby. None of these are valid reason to get rid of your pet, although they would have been valid reasons for not getting one in the first place had you done your research.
I am certainly not trying to talk you out of getting a bird. I just want to make sure that you are aware of the commitment required. You must research your prospective bird's needs and habits. If you are prepared to provide the proper care for this bird for his entire life - then go ahead & get yourself a great companion. If you are going to get tired of all the work and noise in a few years then please don't get a bird.
After many years of pet bird ownership, I have decided to write e-books about the care of some of these wonderful birds.
