What species to start with depends entirely on what you want in a companion! I chose a parrotlet for myself because I wanted a sassy, spunky, boisterous, noisy (Yes, I consider that a boon), playful and bossy companion. (And I don't have the space for an amazon!)

So ask yourself...do you want a quiet, less active bird? Do you want a silly clown who will keep you entertained? Do you want a super cuddly bird? How much noise will you want to have? How much room do you have? How much time?

You are right about seed not being a good diet...Kiwi eats a mix of Zupreem and Roudybush pellets with a bit of seed, plus fresh fruits and veggies, rice, noodles, all sorts of stuff!! Even with little birds, variety is key!

The best advice I can offer is to research research research! Even though I decided that I wanted a parrotlet within two weeks of getting a job in a pet store, I researched for almost two years before I felt ready. Then I had to get the finances together!