Ask Lafeber
Question
Posted by JOAN on 1/5/2010
Talking
I am not, a first time bird owner. I was wondering if you could tell me, which bird type is a very good talker? I want a bird that is not much bigger than a Conure. I have tried to research it, but there is SO much information, that it all just seems to run together after a while! It's difficult to put things into catagorie's. We are a retired couple, in our 60's and would love to spend time loving, caring for, and teaching the bird to talk, and to grow and enjoy life in our home. "Thank you for your time." JoanLafeber Reply
Answered by Brenda on 1/5/2010
Hi Joan,
The advice I always give is do not buy a bird expecting it to talk. Choose a bird that you both get along with & like & if it becomes a good talker, that's a plus. All parrots are capable of speech, but not all of them choose to talk. Some species are better talkers than others, but that still does not guarantee it will talk. Some conures are great talkers, others are not. Blue-crowned conures are a nice species that usually can learn quite a few words. Quaker parrots are great talkers also, but are illegal in some States. Many of the small macaws usually talk well, too.
The novelty of talking can wear off, so it is much more important that you get along with the bird. Talk to breeders & keep doing your research. There is a lot of info, but you should be able to narrow it down some & get an idea of what species you are interested in. Check out some parrots forums & find out what bird owners say about their pets. Just keep in mind that in the end, the species needs to fit into your household so what is right for some people might not be right for you.
We are here to help if you have more questions.
Thank you for asking Lafeber,
Brenda
