What bird will suit me??

Question
Hi

I am looking to get a pet bird but am uncertain as to what type will suit me the best. I live in a complex so a brid that screams is a big nono, I am not al that interested if the bird can talk or not but do whant a type that is quite affectionate and loyal. I am a bit apprehensive when I heard that some birds can live up to 70 years, this bird will out live me and I cant expect someone else to look after MY bird, so this is also an issue.

I have been looking into Lovebirds and Iniand ringnecks, what are your thoughts and your suggestions?

Hope you can help me
Elsjebe

Answer
Helli, Elsjebe.  Thanks for posting your question.  Trying to recommend a bird for someone is personal and very hard to do since I don't know anything about your likes, desires, lifestyle, etc.  I have no idea what bird will suit you the best.  I applaud you, though, for understanding that owning a bird is a long term commitment, and for checking into different types of birds first before choosing.

The type of birds that can live up to 70 years are the larger birds, like macaws, amazons, cockatoos.  It is usually rare that birds are taken care of well enough to live 70 years.  These species of birds are very noisy, so they wouldn't suit your living conditions.  Some medium to small birds are also quite noisy.  Stay away from conures!  They are all very noisy birds (but great birds nonetheless)!

An affectionate and loyal bird that I enjoy very much are cockatiels.  They are are subspecies of cockatoo, but much smaller (about 12" long from head to tail).  Males have a nice song (and can learn to talk) and can be a bit flighty.  Females chirp, but don't sing and usually don't learn to talk and are very affectionate.  Another bird I like are Quaker parakeets.  They are about twice the size of a cockatiel, can be noisy if they want something, and are also affectionate birds.  Indian ringnecks are nice birds, but they can be noisy at times.  Lovebirds are nice, too, but they can also be noisy at times.  Parakeets are also nice parrots.  There are so many choices!    

Whatever you do, if you want a good pet bird to stay a good pet bird, only buy 1 bird.  Some people say that you should always buy lovebirds in pairs...and this is not true (definitely not true if you want a pet).  Shop around.  Seek out parrot breeders for the best price, best birds, and best after-purchase support.  Always ask for proof of sex (in case you want to breed later on or in case you have to part with your bird in the future).  Ensure you get a guarantee wherever you buy...14 days minimum in writing if at all possible.  Research dietary requirements of any bird you choose BEFORE you buy to ensure you can feed properly.  Let the bird choose you for the best match.  In other words, whenever you decide what species of bird you want, shop around and look at many...hold them, spend some time with several, and when the right one finds you, you'll know.  You'll just "click" with each other and you'll have found the bird for you.  This can also work if you are unsure what type bird you want.  

If you need more help, come back.

Chrys