People love birds because they seem chill. Pretty feathers, a few chirps, maybe a little talking—how hard can it be, right? But the truth is, some pet birds are way smarter than they look, and if you don’t keep their brains busy, they’ll start wrecking stuff out of pure boredom. Toys help, but variety and interaction matter just as much. So before you bring home a feathered genius, check out these seven species that need more brain games than you probably expected.

1. African Grey Parrot

These birds aren’t just smart—they’re scary smart. African Greys can learn hundreds of words, recognize colors, and even understand some basic concepts. But without constant stimulation, they can become depressed or start plucking their feathers. You’ll need puzzles, conversation, and time—lots of it. And while they bond deeply with their humans, they also get bored easily, so switching up toys and routines is key. Think of them like toddlers who never grow up… and have beaks. You’ve been warned.

2. Budgerigar (Budgie)

Don’t let their size fool you—budgies are full-blown brainiacs in tiny bird bodies. They’re quick learners, social butterflies, and absolutely thrive on interaction. Plus, because they’re so active, boredom shows up fast and loud. If they’re not chirping to you or messing with a mirror, they’re probably plotting chaos. Rotate their toys, teach them tricks, and give them time outside the cage when you can. Just because they’re small doesn’t mean they won’t turn your bookshelf into a disaster zone.

3. Cockatoo

Cockatoos are needy in every sense of the word. Emotionally clingy? Check. Super smart? Double check. These birds crave attention and get destructive if they don’t get enough. And since they also form deep attachments to their people, a bored cockatoo can develop major behavior problems. You’ll need foraging toys, time out of the cage, and plenty of one-on-one hangouts. Honestly, owning a cockatoo is like dating someone with abandonment issues and an engineering degree. Still adorable, though.

4. Macaw

Yes, they’re stunning, but macaws are also high-maintenance drama queens. They’re brilliant problem solvers, and if you’re not offering enough stimulation, they’ll make their own fun—which could mean shredding furniture or learning to scream like your smoke alarm. These birds need huge cages, rotating enrichment, and regular training sessions. Plus, they’re incredibly social, so if you’re not interacting with them enough, they’ll start acting out. Bottom line: a bored macaw is a chaotic macaw. You’ve gotta keep things spicy.

5. Conure

These little guys pack a ton of personality into a compact frame. Conures are playful, loud, and surprisingly smart. Because they’re so curious, they need mental stimulation just as much as they need cuddles. Otherwise, they can get nippy or start screaming for attention. You’ll want to mix up their environment often—new perches, new textures, new games. And while they love hanging with humans, they’ll also benefit from learning tricks and even simple tasks. Keep ’em guessing, or they’ll keep you guessing.

6. Eclectus Parrot

The Eclectus isn’t just gorgeous—it’s also a thinker. These birds are sensitive and intelligent, which means they notice everything. Without enough stimulation, they can grow anxious or start feather-plucking. Since they enjoy quiet environments but still need challenges, you’ll need to strike a balance. Puzzle feeders, talking sessions, and a well-structured routine all help. Even subtle changes can affect their mood, so variety matters. Think of them as introverts who love escape rooms: low-key vibes, high-key brainpower.

7. Quaker Parrot (Monk Parakeet)

Quaker parrots are little chatterboxes with big brains. They’re natural builders (yes, they literally make nests from sticks) and love solving problems. Left alone too long, they’ll either get loud or start rearranging your furniture—one tiny beakful at a time. Interactive toys, social time, and opportunities to “forage” are essential. Plus, they’re hilarious mimics, so talking to them regularly keeps them entertained. Basically, if you treat them like roommates with strong opinions, you’ll both be happier in the long run.

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