What are the Quietest Pet Birds?

Birds are wonderful pets, bringing color, song, and companionship into our lives. However, not all birds are suited to every household. For those living in apartments or other homes with shared walls, or for individuals who may be sensitive to noise, finding a quieter species is crucial to ensure a happy, fulfilling relationship for both bird and owner alike. While no bird is entirely silent, the following species are known for being relatively quiet and manageable in terms of noise levels:

Canaries

While these small, vibrant birds are known for their beautiful vocalizations, not all canaries sing. Females are particularly quiet, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a low-noise pet. Even male canaries, which are the singers, produce pleasant and relatively soft songs compared to larger birds. Canaries are also easy to care for and don’t require as much attention as some other bird species, making them a perfect choice for busy households.

Finches

These small birds are social and thrive in pairs or small groups, often communicating with soft chirps and tweets that are not disruptive. Popular types include zebra finches, society finches, and Gouldian finches. They are active and entertaining to watch, and their sounds are generally pleasant and unobtrusive. Finches are easy to care for and do not require a lot of interaction from their owners, making them ideal for beginners.

Parrotlets

Weighing only about an ounce, parrotlets are tiny parrots with big personalities. They are curious, intelligent, and can be quite affectionate with their owners. Despite their energetic nature, parrotlets are relatively quiet birds. They can mimic sounds and learn a few words, but their voices are soft and unlikely to disturb neighbors. Parrotlets are perfect for those who want a parrot-like experience without the noise typically associated with larger parrot species.

Bourke’s parakeets

Known for their gentle and calm demeanor, these parakeets are active during dawn and dusk but remain quiet for the rest of the day. Their calls are soft and melodious, unlike the loud squawks of some other parakeet species. Bourke’s parakeets are also quite hardy and easy to care for, making them a good choice for first-time bird owners.

Cockatiels

Cockatiels are among the most popular types of pet birds due to their friendly nature and relatively quiet demeanor. While they can whistle and learn to mimic sounds, cockatiels are not known for being excessively noisy. They are social birds that enjoy interacting with their owners and can be trained to perform simple tricks. Cockatiels are also relatively low-maintenance, making them a great option for those new to bird ownership.

Doves

While doves are often overlooked as pets, they are among the quietest bird species you can own. Their gentle cooing is soothing and far less intrusive than the calls of many other birds. Doves are affectionate and easy to tame, often forming strong bonds with their owners. They require a spacious cage to allow for their flight needs but are otherwise simple to care for.

Choosing the right bird species for your household involves considering several different factors, including their tendencies for noise and vocalizations, care requirements, and personalities. If you’re thinking of adding a pet bird to your family but are unsure which type would be best for your lifestyle, our bird matchmaker quiz is a great place to start to get some customized suggestions!