Birds are incredible companions, especially those with high energy levels that bring vibrancy and activity to any home. High-energy birds, however, aren’t just about fun and play; they require dedicated time and attention to meet their physical and mental needs. These birds thrive in environments that allow for social interaction, exercise, and various activities to keep them engaged and happy. Whether you’re a bird lover or considering bringing a feathered friend into your life, this list of energetic bird species can help you find a bird that fits your lifestyle.

1. Cockatoo

Cockatoos are famously playful and energetic birds with a natural curiosity that keeps them on the move. Known for their social nature, cockatoos bond closely with their owners and require substantial daily interaction to feel secure. They love climbing, chewing, and exploring their surroundings, and often engage in activities that mimic their natural behaviors, like shredding toys or interacting with puzzle feeders. Without regular mental and physical stimulation, cockatoos can become bored, sometimes leading to behaviors like feather plucking.

2. Macaw

Macaws are one of the most vibrant and active parrot species, both in color and personality. Known for their impressive intelligence, macaws require plenty of space, engaging toys, and mental challenges to stay content. Their social nature and strong bond with their owners make them affectionate but also demand a high level of attention and interaction. Macaws are highly vocal and will often mimic sounds, making them excellent talkers. Their playful energy and need for regular exercise mean they do best in homes where they can enjoy extended playtimes.

3. Amazon Parrot

Amazon parrots are known for their bold and engaging personalities. Highly energetic and inquisitive, these birds thrive on social interaction, mental stimulation, and plenty of physical activities. Famous for their vocal abilities, they are skilled mimics and can even sing tunes. Amazon parrots enjoy a structured environment where they can explore, forage, and play, helping to keep their curious minds sharp. If you meet their needs, Amazon parrots are fun, engaging companions, always ready to entertain.

4. African Grey Parrot

African Grey parrots are celebrated for their intelligence, which fuels their high-energy needs in a unique way. While they may appear reserved, their need for mental stimulation is high. African Greys enjoy solving puzzles, learning new words, and engaging in activities that challenge their intellect. They thrive on routine and can be affectionate with their owners, especially if provided with regular, thoughtful engagement. African Greys are particularly sensitive and need calm, structured environments to prevent anxiety.

5. Conure

Conures may be small, but they are packed with personality and energy. Known for their playful and curious nature, conures love exploring, climbing, and interacting with toys. They are social birds that form strong bonds with their owners, making them eager to engage in games and activities. Conures are vocal and enjoy mimicking sounds, though they’re often quieter than larger parrots. Because of their high energy, conures need plenty of time outside the cage to explore and interact, making them ideal for those looking for an active pet.

6. Parrotlet

Despite their tiny size, parrotlets are energetic and fearless. These small parrots have big personalities, often described as bold and inquisitive. Parrotlets enjoy exploring and interacting with toys and can be quite territorial. Their high energy requires owners to provide daily interaction and mental stimulation, as they’re happiest when engaged in activities that satisfy their curiosity. Parrotlets are social and can bond strongly with their owners. Ideal for those who want a small but active bird, parrotlets bring a lot of liveliness and character to any home.

7. Caique

Caiques are known for their clown-like behavior and energetic personalities. These birds are playful, often engaging in activities like hopping, dancing, and playing with toys. They require regular exercise and mental engagement, as they’re happiest in environments that offer both social interaction and physical activities. Caiques form strong bonds with their owners, but they do best with owners who can meet their high-energy demands. If you are ready for a bird that’s constantly on the go, caiques are a delightful choice 

8. Budgerigar (Budgie)

Budgies may be small, but they’re full of energy and curiosity. These social birds love to interact, play with toys, and even learn to mimic sounds or phrases. Budgies are natural explorers and enjoy moving around, making them ideal for you if you can offer a variety of toys and activities. Despite their small size, budgies have a lot of personality and are happiest in environments that allow them to exercise both mentally and physically. Budgies make fantastic companions for those looking for a lively, easy-to-care-for bird.

9. Lovebird

Lovebirds are small but vibrant parrots that are full of energy. Known for their affectionate nature, they thrive on social interaction and form strong bonds with their owners. Lovebirds require daily mental stimulation, including toys and activities to satisfy their curious minds. These birds are vocal and expressive, often communicating with chirps and whistles. For those ready for a social, high-energy companion, lovebirds bring a lot of joy and require owners who can meet their need for attention and activity.

10. Eclectus Parrot

Eclectus parrots are unique in their energy needs, balancing mental and physical activities to stay content. Known for their calm demeanor, they possess a high intelligence that drives them to enjoy puzzles, trick training, and interactive play sessions. Eclectus parrots form deep bonds with their owners, preferring structured routines that involve both exercise and quality social time. While they may not be as overtly hyperactive as some other parrots, they still require mental challenges to thrive.