Quietest pet birds are ideal companions for people who love the beauty and charm of birds but live in apartments, shared spaces, or quiet homes where loud squawks and calls aren’t welcome. While all birds make some noise, certain species are known for being gentle, soft-voiced, and easy on the ears — making them perfect for beginners or anyone seeking a peaceful feathered friend.
This article explores the best quiet pet bird species, their personalities, care needs, and why they make such wonderful companions.
Why Choose a Quiet Pet Bird?
Peaceful Environment
Unlike larger, louder parrots like macaws or cockatoos, quiet pet birds won’t fill your home with constant squawking. They chirp softly, sing occasionally, or simply enjoy quiet companionship.
Apartment and Shared Living Friendly
For apartment dwellers or people living with family or roommates, a quiet bird ensures you can enjoy a pet without worrying about noise complaints or disruptions.
Easier for Beginners
Quieter birds are often smaller and easier to handle, making them a great choice for people new to bird ownership.
Top Quietest Pet Birds
Finches
Finches are tiny, colorful birds that live best in pairs or small groups.
- Noise level: Low. They make soft peeping sounds and gentle chirps, never loud squawks.
- Personality: Active, social (with each other), but don’t require much human handling.
- Care tips: Provide a spacious cage, fresh food, and clean water. Watch them flutter and play!
Canaries
Canaries are famous for their soft, melodic songs (especially males), but they are still considered quiet overall.
- Noise level: Low to moderate. Their singing is gentle and soothing, not harsh.
- Personality: Independent, happy watching the world, not fond of handling.
- Care tips: Offer a roomy cage, perches, and occasional treats like fresh greens.
Bourke’s Parakeets
These small Australian parrots are among the calmest parrot species.
- Noise level: Very low. Soft chirps and occasional gentle calls.
- Personality: Sweet, gentle, easygoing, can bond with humans.
- Care tips: Give plenty of out-of-cage time and quiet interaction.
Pionus Parrots
Among the larger birds on this list, Pionus parrots are known for their calm and quiet nature.
- Noise level: Low to moderate. Occasional soft squawks but generally quiet.
- Personality: Gentle, affectionate, a bit shy but loyal once bonded.
- Care tips: Provide enrichment toys, space, and gentle social interaction.
Parrotlets
These tiny parrots are energetic but not especially loud.
- Noise level: Low. They chirp and chatter quietly.
- Personality: Feisty, playful, can bond closely with their human.
- Care tips: They need mental stimulation and gentle handling.
How to Keep Pet Birds Quiet and Happy
Provide Enough Space and Enrichment
Bored birds can become noisy. Make sure their cage is spacious and filled with perches, toys, and opportunities for mental stimulation.
Keep a Calm Environment
Birds reflect the energy around them. A peaceful household helps keep your pet bird relaxed and less likely to vocalize loudly.
Respect Natural Rhythms
Most birds are active during the day and rest at night. Covering their cage at night helps ensure they get proper sleep, which can reduce stress and noise.
Avoid Stress Triggers
Sudden changes, loud noises, or lack of social interaction can make birds anxious and noisier. Provide consistency, routine, and gentle interaction.
FAQs About Quietest Pet Birds
Are all small birds quiet?
Not necessarily. Some small birds, like lovebirds or budgies, can be quite chatty and loud despite their size.
Can you train a bird to be quiet?
You can encourage quiet behavior by rewarding calm moments, but you can’t fully “train out” natural sounds — gentle chirping is part of their nature.
Which bird is the quietest for an apartment?
Finches or Bourke’s parakeets are top choices for apartments due to their soft, low-volume sounds.
Do quiet birds need less attention?
Not always. While some, like canaries, are more independent, others, like parrotlets, need regular interaction and playtime.
Are quiet pet birds good for kids?
Yes! Calm species like finches or canaries are great for families, though they’re better for observation than hands-on play.
Quietest pet birds offer the perfect balance of companionship and peace. Whether you’re enchanted by the soft peeps of finches, the soothing songs of a canary, or the gentle presence of a Bourke’s parakeet, these birds bring joy without disrupting your home’s tranquility.
Choosing the right quiet bird means understanding its social needs, space requirements, and personality. With proper care and love, these feathered friends will reward you with years of gentle beauty and soft music.
