So, you're an apartment dweller with a yearning for feathered companionship? You're not alone! Birds, with their vibrant colors, charming chirps and endless curiosity, can bring a delightful dose of nature and joy into even the most compact of spaces. But before you impulsively bring home a budgie or befriend a bewildered blue jay on your fire escape, let's take a deep dive into the wonderful world of apartment-friendly bird keeping.

All you need to know about keeping pet birds

Choosing your winged roommate

Not all birds are created equal, especially when it comes to apartment living. Forget about macaws and their eardrum-shattering squawks, or cockatoos that can chew through your furniture like tiny feathered menaces. Instead, focus on smaller, quieter species that are well-suited to indoor spaces. Here are a few popular apartment-friendly choices that are great for apartments. 

Just a note before we begin — if you're looking to rent an apartment from us at AMLI Residential, please be sure to check with the leasing office for information as to what pets are accepted.

Budgies

Also known as parakeets, these cheerful chatterboxes are social butterflies, relatively easy to care for and can even learn to mimic speech (though their vocabulary might be limited to "hello" and your exasperated sighs). Just be prepared for a lively soundtrack, as budgies love to sing and chirp, especially in the morning.

Cockatiels

These gentle giants of the apartment bird world are known for their sweet whistles and playful personalities. As a bona-fide cockatiel owner back in the day, I can tell you that they make for great roommates and have very sweet personalities if they’re cared for well and have plenty of toys to keep them enriched. They're also relatively quiet compared to some other parrots, making them ideal for noise-conscious neighbors. 

Finches

These tiny songbirds are perfect for those who crave a symphony of chirps without the commitment of a larger bird. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, and their small size makes them less intimidating for apartment dwellers. They do tend to be happier in larger groups, so be aware that you may need 2-3 birds to keep them from getting depressed. 

Canaries

These beautiful songbirds are known for their melodic calls and relatively low-maintenance needs. They're not as social as some other birds, but their sweet songs can bring a touch of serenity to your apartment, and their vibrant colors are stunning when they’re happy and healthy!

Choosing a cage

A cage isn't just a home; it's a playground, a gym and a mental stimulation center that will make or break your bird’s happiness.

Choose a cage that's spacious enough for your bird to spread their wings and move around comfortably. A good rule of thumb is to provide at least three times the bird's wingspan in length and width, and twice the height. Opt for a cage with multiple levels and perches of varying thicknesses and textures to keep your bird's feet stimulated. And don't forget about toys! Bird boredom is a real thing, so provide your feathered friend with an assortment of swings, bells, foraging toys and objects that can be shredded to keep them entertained and engaged.

Beyond the bars

Your bird's life shouldn't be confined to a cage, and regular out-of-cage playtime is essential for their physical and mental well-being. Let your bird explore your apartment under your watchful eye, providing them with safe perches and climbing areas that they can explore. Be mindful of open windows and potential hazards like other pets, fans, appliances or houseplants that might be toxic to birds. And remember, supervised interaction with you is the ultimate form of enrichment for your feathered friend. Talk to them, sing to them, offer them treats from your hand (be careful not to spoil them too much!) and let them preen your hair (it's their way of showing affection, even if it feels a bit… odd).

Apartment harmony

Living in close quarters with chirping companions requires a bit of neighborly consideration. Soundproofing your bird's space with blankets or sound curtains can help muffle early morning serenades. Schedule playtime during the day and be mindful of noise levels, especially if you have thin walls. Remember, a quiet bird is a happy bird, and a little respect goes a long way in keeping everyone happy.

Food for the birds

A healthy diet is key to keeping your bird happy, healthy and singing. Forget about stale birdseed and crackers — opt for a high-quality pelleted food specifically formulated for your bird's species. Fresh fruits and vegetables like apples, broccoli and leafy greens provide essential vitamins and minerals, and don't forget the occasional millet spray or seed treat as a reward. Just like with us humans, variety is key to a balanced diet.

Avian ailments

Regular checkups with an avian veterinarian are essential for preventive care and early detection of any health issues. Clean their cage regularly with natural, chemical-free cleaning solutions and keep their living areas fresh and neat and avoid any respiratory illnesses that can cause havoc on their tiny lungs. 

Birds are also masters of hiding their illnesses, so be vigilant and watch for any changes in behavior, appetite or feather condition. Remember, a healthy bird is a happy bird, and a happy bird is a bird who gets regular checkups (even if they do grumble about the car ride).

Commitment

Owning a pet bird is a long-term commitment. These feathered friends can live for 10-15 years, some even longer. This means adjusting your schedule to accommodate playtime, cleaning and vet visits for the next decade or so of your life. If you’re traveling, consider bird boarding or finding a trusted friend to care for your feathered friend while you're away.

So, before you welcome a winged roommate, ask yourself: Am I ready for this kind of responsibility? Can I provide them with the care and attention they need throughout their lives? Can I handle the noise, the mess and the occasional feather-induced cleaning spree? If your answer is “no,” then maybe pet birds aren’t in the cards right now! 

All in all

A pet bird can be an incredible companion for apartment dwellers, provided that they have everything that they need to stay healthy and happy. Knowing what you’re getting into before you dive into the world of bird ownership will go a long way to ensuring a harmonious  environment for both you and your future bird buddy.

All that’s left now is to go find a new feathery friend!

Enjoy!

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Featured photo courtesy Pixabay/RitaE