What are the Most Vocal Types of Pet Birds?

Compared to other types of pets, one of the most unique features of birds is their potential to develop vocal abilities. However, not all species are talkative, and it’s always important to keep in mind that each bird is an individual—a bird from a species that is known for its vocal abilities may never speak, while one that is not expected to be talkative may surprise you. That said, having an understanding of the best talkers in the avian world can help guide you when choosing a feathered friend to bring into your home. Read on to learn about five of the most vocal types of pet birds.

1. African Grey Parrots

Topping the list of the most vocal pet birds is the African Grey Parrot. Renowned for its incredible intelligence and uncanny ability to mimic human speech, the African Grey is often regarded as the best talking bird. These parrots have a vast vocabulary, and some have been known to learn hundreds of words and phrases. African Greys can mimic not only words but also the tone, pitch, and even accents of their human companions. Their cognitive abilities allow them to understand the context of words, making them seem almost conversational.
If you’re looking for a bird that can engage in meaningful interactions, the African Grey Parrot is an excellent choice—but keep in mind that due to their high intelligence, they are recommended for owners who have experience with birds, as well as adequate time and patience to train and socialize their pets. Without proper training and engagement, these beautiful birds may become destructive and agitated.

2. Amazon Parrots

Amazon Parrots are another group known for their exceptional talking abilities. There are several species within the Amazon parrot family, such as the yellow-naped Amazon and the double yellow-headed Amazon, that are particularly skilled at mimicking human speech. These parrots are known for their loud, clear voices and can develop a large vocabulary. Amazons are also quite expressive, often mimicking the tone and emotion of the words they learn, making them delightful companions. However, like African Greys, they require plenty of attention and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy, so they are best suited for experienced bird owners.

3. Budgerigars (Budgies or Parakeets)

While smaller in size, budgerigars, commonly known as budgies or parakeets, are also remarkable talkers. In fact, a parakeet named Puck was listed in the Guinness World Records in 1995 for his 1728-word vocabulary—larger than any other bird!

Budgies have a high-pitched voice and can learn to speak numerous words and phrases, often speaking quickly and with a great deal of enthusiasm. Male budgies in particular are known for their vocal abilities and can become quite chatty with regular interaction and training. Due to their size and relatively easy care requirements, budgies are a popular choice for first-time bird owners who want a vocal pet.

4. Cockatiels

With their friendly, affectionate disposition, cockatiels are among the most popular types of pet birds. While female cockatiels are not known for their vocal abilities, males can be quite talkative—with consistent training and interaction, they can whistle tunes or even learn up to 250 words and phrases! They have a pleasant, melodic voice, making them a great choice for those seeking a loving and somewhat vocal companion.

5. Quaker Parrots

Also known as monk parakeets, Quaker parrots are small parrots with a big personality. They are highly social birds and are known for their ability to mimic speech and sounds. Quaker parrots often develop a strong bond with their owners and can learn to say words and phrases with great clarity. These parrots are also known for their quirky and fun personalities, making them entertaining companions. However, they can be a bit territorial, so are best suited for owners who can handle their sometimes stubborn nature.

Whether you’re looking for a bird that can develop an impressive vocabulary or a quieter companion, MyBird is here to help support you in choosing and caring for your feathered friend. Be sure to take our bird matchmaker quiz to determine which types of birds may be right for your lifestyle, or check out our bird fact sheets to learn more about popular pet birds!