Most species of parrots can be taught to talk. Of course there are certain species that are much better at talking than others, but even some budgies can learn to talk. I don't think it is too common with budgies though. Larger parrots are usually better at talking. African Greys are AMAZING when it comes to speach abilities. My tiels don't talk, BUT Popcorn has learned to make kissie sounds and almost always does that when we kiss him, and he enjoys whistling along with us. I do have many friends with cockatiels though, and several of them talk very well. My boy is just more into whistles and SOUNDS! LOL! He tries to copy some of the cell phone ring tones too.

My friend has a half moon conure who has a pretty good vocabulary.....BUT, he is VERY loud. I think some birds like to talk a LITTLE too much. Are you thinking of getting a bird?