When choosing a pet bird, noise level can play a significant role in making the right decision for your home. While some bird species are celebrated for their vibrant personalities and playful antics, their vocalizations can range from soothing to downright deafening. Let’s explore 10 surprisingly quiet bird breeds that are perfect for those seeking a peaceful companion, and 10 of the loudest bird breeds, whose calls can fill a room and make them better suited for owners who don’t mind a bit of noise in their lives.

1. Senegal Parrot

The Senegal parrot stands out as a quieter companion among its parrot cousins. While capable of producing loud sounds, they do so rarely, especially when their minds are kept engaged with toys and activities. Chewable softwood toys and sturdy ropes (without loose strings) are ideal for stimulating their intelligence. These birds thrive on interaction, forming strong bonds with their caretakers. With a lifespan exceeding 30 years, they make lifelong companions who are unobtrusive and affectionate when given proper attention and care.

2. Bourke’s Parakeet

Bourke’s parakeets are well-known for their gentle nature and subdued vocalizations. These birds are most active at dawn and dusk, during which they emit soft chirps and chatter that are far less intrusive than the calls of many other parrot species. Despite their quiet demeanor, they enjoy having space to fly and toys to occupy their time. Bourke’s parakeets are relatively low-maintenance, requiring a roomy enclosure and occasional interaction, making them a fantastic choice for bird enthusiasts who prefer minimal noise.

3. Budgie

Budgerigars, commonly called budgies, are celebrated for their cheerful disposition and soft vocalizations. Although they are capable of mimicking words, their small size ensures that even their chatter is gentle. Budgies typically sing or chirp rather than screech, and loud calls are rare unless they’re signaling to a flock. Female budgies are particularly quiet compared to males, making them ideal for those seeking a calm companion. Providing mental stimulation with toys and daily exercise ensures a happy, peaceful pet.

4. Lineolated Parakeet

Lineolated parakeets, or “linnies,” are renowned for their calm and laid-back temperament. They produce low-level vocalizations, such as gentle chatter, which are rarely disruptive. Occasionally, they emit flock calls, but these are brief and less shrill compared to other parakeets. Native to Central and South America, linnies have become cherished for their manageable size and subdued nature. Their affectionate personality, combined with minimal noise output, makes them an excellent choice for quiet households.

5. Cockatiel

Cockatiels are a perfect blend of fun and tranquility, making them a favorite among bird enthusiasts. While they can be vocal, their chirps are soft and seldom reach disruptive levels. They’re known for their ability to mimic sounds and whistle tunes, which adds charm to their personalities. Occasional vocalizations may occur if they’re stressed or hear other birds, but this is rare when they’re content. Proper socialization and care ensure that cockatiels remain affectionate and relatively quiet companions.

6. Gouldian Finch

Gouldian finches are among the quietest finches, known for their soft, infrequent songs. Unlike their more vocal relatives, such as zebra finches, Gouldian finches produce gentle melodies that are more ambient than disruptive. They rarely scream or screech, making them ideal for noise-sensitive environments. These finches are also visually striking, with vibrant plumage that adds beauty to any space. Their calm demeanor and soothing vocalizations make them a popular choice for peaceful households.

7. Diamond Dove

Diamond doves are small, sociable birds with a reputation for their soft and continuous cooing. Unlike many other birds, they don’t squawk or scream, ensuring a serene environment. Their gentle cooing is soothing and often considered a pleasant background sound. Smaller than most pigeons, diamond doves are also less demanding and easy to care for, making them a wonderful option for bird lovers who appreciate a tranquil and affectionate avian companion.

8. Pionus Parrot

The Pionus parrot is a calm and reserved bird, known for its soft and infrequent vocalizations. While it’s capable of making louder sounds, it typically prefers quiet interaction with its caretaker. These parrots thrive in peaceful settings and may become stressed if housed with louder birds. Socialization is key to maintaining their positive temperament and ensuring they trust people. Their blend of quietness and affectionate nature makes them a delightful choice for those seeking a serene avian friend.

9. Canary

Male canaries are celebrated for their melodious songs, but their small size keeps the volume at a tolerable level. Unlike many birds, canaries are relatively solitary and may show aggression if housed with others in a confined space. They require a spacious enclosure to thrive and remain stress-free. Female canaries, on the other hand, are much quieter, emitting only occasional chirps. Their soft songs and vibrant plumage make them a joy for bird enthusiasts who value a quiet yet beautiful pet.

10. Parrotlet

Parrotlets are tiny, energetic birds that produce short bursts of soft chirps and chatter. They are much quieter than larger parrots and rarely vocalize for extended periods. Despite their small size, parrotlets are full of personality and thrive on daily interaction with their caretakers. Their playful nature ensures they’re always entertaining without being disruptive. With proper care and socialization, parrotlets make ideal companions for those seeking a lively yet quiet pet.

11. Macaws

Macaws are renowned for their size, vibrancy, and loud voices. These birds are naturally inclined to vocalize loudly in the wild, where their calls can travel vast distances. When kept in captivity, they maintain this trait, with their squawks becoming a constant source of noise in a home. Species like the Scarlet and Blue-and-Gold Macaws are particularly known for their vocal abilities. Their intelligence allows them to mimic sounds, which can escalate noise levels even further. As social birds, they require plenty of mental stimulation and attention to reduce excessive noise. Macaws are not suitable for quiet environments.

12. Cockatoos

Cockatoos are striking birds with affectionate personalities, but they come with a loud vocal downside. Species like the Moluccan and Umbrella Cockatoos are notorious for their shrill, piercing screams, often used to demand attention or communicate frustration. Their loud calls can be difficult to ignore, making them a challenging pet for noise-sensitive owners. These birds thrive on social interaction and mental stimulation, and without adequate attention, they may resort to excessive screaming. 

13. African Grey Parrots

African Greys are among the most intelligent parrots, known for their mimicry skills and complex vocalizations. While they are celebrated for their ability to mimic human speech and household sounds, this ability can also lead to excessive noise. Their vocalizations can range from mimicking doorbells to creating repetitive, high-pitched calls when they feel bored or anxious. This breed is best suited for experienced bird owners who understand the need for mental stimulation and regular interaction. Though they may not be as loud as some larger parrots, their sharp calls and tendency to mimic make them unsuitable for quiet spaces.

14. Conures

Conures, though small, are known for their loud, high-pitched vocalizations, particularly the Sun and Jenday Conures. In their natural habitat, their calls serve to communicate over long distances, and in a home environment, this translates into frequent, sometimes overwhelming squawks. These birds are full of energy and love being social, with their sounds showcasing their vibrant personalities. While environmental enrichment and training can help reduce some noise, their natural tendency to vocalize frequently remains. Conures are best suited to individuals who enjoy spirited companions and can manage their energetic, noisy behavior.

15. Amazon Parrots

Amazon Parrots, such as the Yellow-headed and Blue-fronted Amazons, are well-known for their intelligence and ability to mimic speech, but they are also infamous for their loud vocalizations. These birds can alternate between melodic and deafening calls depending on their mood or level of excitement. They are highly social and thrive on interaction, often using their voices to demand attention. Without adequate stimulation or interaction, they may resort to excessive screaming. Amazon Parrots need regular mental enrichment and social interaction, and their loud calls make them unsuitable for shared living spaces.

16. Indian Ringneck Parakeets

Indian Ringneck Parakeets are known for their ability to mimic human speech, but they also come with a reputation for loud, shrill calls. Their vocalizations can become sharp and frequent when they are startled or seeking attention. These birds are highly social and thrive on interaction, but they may become noisy if they feel neglected. While they are less loud compared to larger parrots, their high-pitched calls can still be disruptive. They require a stimulating environment to prevent boredom, and owners should be prepared to manage their vocal tendencies while enjoying their charismatic personalities.

17. Eclectus Parrots

Eclectus Parrots are recognized for their vibrant plumage and ability to mimic speech, but they can also produce loud, shrill calls when alarmed or seeking attention. Their vocalizations are not as frequent as those of some other parrots, but they can still be piercing when they occur. These birds are intelligent and social, requiring plenty of interaction and mental stimulation to stay content. Without proper care, they may resort to loud calls to express frustration or boredom. While their vocal outbursts can be managed, prospective owners should be prepared to deal with the occasional noise.

18. Lorikeets

Rainbow Lorikeets are energetic and colorful birds with equally vibrant personalities, but their high-pitched calls can be disruptive in a home environment. These birds are highly social and vocal, often chattering or screeching to communicate with their flock. In captivity, this results in frequent loud vocalizations, particularly during feeding times or when they are excited. While mental and physical stimulation can help manage their noise levels, Lorikeets are best suited to owners who are comfortable with their spirited behavior and can tolerate their energetic vocalizations.

19. Finches

Finches are small, social birds known for their cheerful and gentle songs, but their vocalizations are soft and not overly loud. These birds typically communicate through quiet chirps, trills, and songs, which are pleasant to listen to but don’t overwhelm the atmosphere. Unlike larger parrot species, finches don’t engage in loud squawking or screaming. They are ideal for those looking for a peaceful bird that brings a calming presence to the home. With their small size and gentle nature, finches are well-suited for people who prefer a quieter, more serene pet bird.

20. Lovebirds

Lovebirds are small but full of personality, and their vocalizations are equally vibrant. These birds are known for their persistent chirping, which can become overwhelming when they are kept in pairs or groups. While their calls are less varied than those of larger parrots, the frequency and volume of their chirping can still make them noisy. Lovebirds vocalize to communicate with their mates or express excitement, and providing toys and activities can help manage their noise levels. 

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