1: What qualities are you looking for in a bird? Cockatiels are wonderful pets (As many people on the boards here can vouch for), but if you'd like something smaller Budgies can be fun. Parrotlets are quieter than Budgies, but they're a challenge to keep occupied since they're so intelligent. (I just think that adds to the fun!)

2: Honestly, I prefer male birds 90% of the time. I have met some fabulous female birds, but it seems to me that the males of most species are quieter, more easygoing, and have less of a tendency to be aggressive to people outside of their "flock".

3: Definitely steer clear of any conures!! Budgies aren't LOUD really, but they seem to chatter absolutely nonstop! Lovebirds are also particularly shrill and piercing.


I'm very partial to Parrotlets, because they're such a BIG birdie, but they're in a body the size of a canary! The ones I see at work are nonstop fun. I don't think I've ever seen them stop playing!

One type of bird that I DON'T care for is Lovebirds. They do not live up to their name at all in my experience. Even the hand-fed babies we get in at work become very aggressive towards each other and the people who take care of them. I have been told that a few of them can be quite friendly, but I have yet to see it for myself. I wear a scar on my hand from "Mole", one of our handfed lovebirds at work who is a permanent resident. (Mush to my displeasure)

I know there are a LOT of 'tiel owners on here who will be more than happy to tell you all about their birdies, so I'll leave it to them.