Birds are known for their songs and calls, but not every bird is loud and disruptive. For first-time owners seeking a peaceful companion, certain bird species offer a quieter alternative without sacrificing charm or personality. These quieter birds still bring color, intelligence, and interaction into your home, just with gentler sounds. While no bird is completely silent, some species are much more suitable for those who live in apartments or shared spaces. These five birds can be wonderful companions, especially for new owners who want a calm and manageable pet experience.

1. Finch

Finches are ideal companions for bird lovers who value serenity. Known for their soft peeps and chirps, these tiny birds create a background symphony that’s more soothing than startling. They rarely vocalize loudly, even when housed in pairs or small flocks. Finches thrive best when kept with fellow finches rather than humans, so they’re great for those who enjoy bird-watching more than bird-handling. Their energy is channeled through constant motion within their enclosure, so a spacious, horizontal cage is essential. With their gentle nature and minimal noise, finches are a perfect pick for quieter living environments.

2. Canary

Canaries charm with their gentle songs and vibrant plumage. Though they are vocal, their sound is delicate and rarely disturbing—even in apartments with thin walls. Male canaries sing the most, especially when content and healthy, but their melodious tunes stay light and enjoyable. With over 200 breeds available in a spectrum of yellow, orange, and green hues, canaries offer variety and visual appeal. They are solitary and don’t require a companion, which simplifies care for new bird owners. A bright and quiet presence, the canary is a low-maintenance yet lively addition to any peaceful home.

3. Budgerigar (Budgie)

Budgerigars, also known as parakeets or simply budgies, strike an ideal balance between quietness and companionship. Their vocalizations are soft and chirpy, avoiding the ear-piercing shrieks of larger parrots. These small parrots are highly intelligent and social, making them interactive and trainable pets. Budgies love to play and will thrive with an assortment of toys and regular engagement from their owner. Despite their talkative nature, they remain relatively quiet in comparison to most birds. Their playful energy and gentle volume make them well-suited for first-time bird owners in shared or compact living spaces.

4. Pacific Parrotlet

Pacific Parrotlets are pint-sized parrots with big personalities but surprisingly small voices. Unlike their louder relatives, parrotlets rarely screech or scream, instead producing soft, intermittent chirps. They’re affectionate birds that form strong bonds with their humans, especially when handled regularly. Their social nature means they flourish with interaction, but they won’t disturb the peace of your home. Compact in size, they don’t need a huge cage but do benefit from mental stimulation and playtime. These birds are ideal for those who want a quiet yet spirited companion who adds life without the loud soundtrack.

5. Cockatiel

Cockatiels offer a lovely blend of companionship and calm. While they can whistle and mimic sounds, their overall volume is much lower than that of other parrot species. Females, in particular, tend to be quieter and more reserved. These birds are affectionate, social, and curious, often enjoying interaction and light handling. Though they need a reasonably large cage, cockatiels are not particularly demanding in temperament. Their gentle demeanor and moderate noise level make them suitable for first-time owners who want a balanced bird—one that’s engaging without being overwhelming to the ears or lifestyle.

Love Pets as Much as We Do?

Scroll up and click the ‘Follow’ button to stay updated with the latest heart-warming, hilarious, and helpful pet posts from Pawdown, delivered straight to your Microsoft Start feed and MSN homepage!