3 Types Of Parrots That Can Live Together In An Avery

Taking care of parrots is not a walk in the park; however, purchasing parrots is somewhat addicting. You want one, then somewhere in time, decide to purchase another! Then you’ll be shocked to see that your home is a bright and colorful Aviary. 

However, the real dilemma here is the compatible parrots. Suffice it to say that not all birds can live in a single aviary because if so, then there’ll be huge problems. Mainly because mixing the types of parrots in a single aviary can be overwhelming and stressful. As mentioned, not all birds have the same or are in sync. 

After numerous observations and studies, many have found that Budgies, Cockatiels, and Lovebirds can live harmoniously in a single aviary due to their compatible characteristics. 

In this article, we’ll detail these three best and most compatible parrots that can live harmoniously in an aviary. 

What To Do? 

First order of the problem, what should you consider when introducing or mixing another species of parrots? In this context, awareness of the situation significantly sustains your aviary’s harmony. The best way to do that is to ensure you execute a proper introduction.

One of the common traits of parrots is that they are highly sociable and tend to go with larger flocks. On the other hand, although parrots are friendly and entertaining feathered friends, they can also show aggression toward new species in their aviary. It is an instinct for them, especially when an unknown species are taking their space. 

For context, it’s riskier to introduce small parrots to larger ones because larger parrots often show aggression or bite the smaller ones. When this happens, observe your parrots’ behavior and body language. Examining your parrots’ body language will ensure they will not harm another type of parrot. Hence, they are slightly comfortable around the bird you introduced recently. 

Gradual Introduction

As much as possible, when introducing smaller parrots to bigger ones, it’s best to acclimate the smaller ones gradually. Forcing the larger ones to accept the smaller parrots can raise problems and issues. It will yield to possible aggression and attack on the smaller ones-the worst-case scenario; the smaller ones can receive a lot of bullying. 

Moreover, when introducing parrots to your previous flock, ask questions and research the types of parrots that get along in an aviary to avoid conflicts and frictions. 

What Are The Types Of Parrots?

Parrots have a longstanding name in every bird owner’s household. Keeping parrots as pets is the first thing that comes to mind. They are sociable, and you can domesticate them with proper introduction, home environment, and training. On the other hand, when people talk about parrots, they usually associate these with only Macaws. There are 350 known species of parrots. 

Before proceeding with which can get along in the aviary, let’s list the common parrots as household pets. (source)

1. African Grey Parrots

These parrots are the most notable and intelligent birds. They can mimic words and sounds. It is their way to bond with their owners as they need a lot of interaction to be active. It is best always to keep them company since they don’t want to be isolated. They can live up to 60 years in captivity—talk about being a lifetime buddy! 

2. Cockatoos

Their demanding demeanor. Parrots tend to attach themselves to their owners to the point of obsession. That’s why they were also called Velcro for always being with you. These medium to large-sized parrots has puffy chests and adorable crests that make them distinct from other species of parrots. Aside from being a Velcro, they throw major tantrums when not receiving enough attention. 

3. Macaws

These red and blue shaded parrots are what everyone pictures when they hear the word parrots. They stand from 20 to 50 inches and can live up to 30 to 50 years. Therefore, a lifetime of commitment and dedication to caring for these parrots. Macaws are known to have a loud screech that can wake everyone in your neighborhood. An actual and flying alarm clock! 

4. Parrotlet

Unlike African Gray Parrot, Cockatoos, and Macaws, parrotlets are generally smaller and only need small spaces. These are the smallest parrots; hence, you don’t need much room for them. They may be small, but they still want cuddles and love receiving so much attention. The more you give attention to your parrotlets, the more they will bond closely with you. Parrotlets reciprocate your love for them. 

5. Cockatiels

These parrots are the smallest member of the Cockatoo family and are incredibly well-known throughout the United States. It’s because they are low maintenance and easy to get along. Lifespan-wise, they can live up to 25 years with good management, careful attention, and love. The same with Cockatoos, cockatiels have adorable crests on their head—making them distinct from smaller parrots. 

6. Parakeets

Budgerigars are parakeets’ other names. You can find these cute little birds outside the United States, and they are a good fit for beginner parrot owners. They have brilliant colors that are quite eye-catching to parrot enthusiasts. Additionally, they are social and have no problems interacting with their owners. Parakeets usually flourish in pairs due to their rooted flock outlook. 

7. Quaker Parakeets

A Quaker Parakeet is the best choice if you want a talkative parrot but a smaller version. These Quakers are also known as Monk Parakeets and stand 11 inches long. To add, they can mimic simple words when appropriately trained. The best way to interact or bond with Quakers is to narrate your day or daily activities. You’ll hear them utter the exact words you’re expressing somewhere in time. 

8. Lovebirds

These birds are known for having a pair for a lifetime. Regardless, the myths about these two birds being in love with each that when one dies, the other will too are not entirely true. But what’s true is that these lovebirds belong to the species of parrots, and they are the tiniest compared to other types of parrots.  

What Species Can Get Along Together? 

Bird owners or parrot owners keep more than one bird in their homes. We can’t blame you for falling in love with these soaring angels since they are such good companies. Some bird owners or parrot owners may have built an aviary as part of their homes and their commitment and devotion to taking care of these colorful gliders. 

Taking care of parrots and other species of birds can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience not just for you but also for your feathered friends as well. On the flip side, even if these parrots have bonded closely with you as their owners, they may show ambivalence to other parrots or classifications of birds. 

Nevertheless, you can maintain harmony within your aviary by including or mixing these birds with your parrots. Here is the list of birds retrieved in the blog from Exotic Direct posted on October 9, 2020. Dorothy enumerated the bird mixes that can live harmoniously in a parrot aviary that get along well in your parrot aviary. In Dorothy’s list, it has: (source)

• Budgies

With its scientific name, Melopsittacus undulatus, budgies, or budgerigar, are found frequently in the open woodlands, grasslands, and near water to efficiently forage food. They mostly live out on seeds, fruits, insects, and berries. These colorful flocks have a wingspan of 25 to 35 centimeters; converted in inches can be 10 to 14 inches. 

Regardless of their herbivore tendencies, they are omnivores. Despite having an omnivore diet, budgie’s favorite food is seeds. Unlike birds who build their nests, they live off tree cavities and have a molting age of 3 to 4 months. As for physical features, they usually sport gray, yellow, blue, black, white, or green colors. They can live up to 3 to 6 years with a weight of 30 to 40 grams. When converted, it will be up to 1 to 1.4 ounces and stand within 15 to 20 centimeters (5.9 to 7.8 inches).

• Cockatiels

These adorable crested feathered birds have the scientific name Nymphicus hollandicus, and you can often find them in Oceania. These mixed-color birds commonly prey on terrestrial insects, but their biggest threats are birds of prey. Weirdo and Quarrion are their other names and have a wingspan of 11.8 to 13.7 inches and stand for 9.84 to 13.8 inches. 

Quarrions or cockatiels can live averagely for as long as 35 years in captivity. They weigh 3.17 ounces and have a speed of 43 mph. Their colors can range from grey, yellow, white, and orange and uniquely have crests that rise or fall depending on what they feel. Similar to Budgies, you can find their nesting location in tree cavities. 

• Lovebirds

With their romantic and intimate relationship, these lovebirds are a group of parrots that are natives of the African continent, specifically a single species flourishing in the lands of Madagascar. These birds are famous for their monogamous mating or pairing. Just like parrots, these birds are social. No wonder some bird owners choose these colorful pairs in their aviary. 

Their favorite food portions include seeds, fruits, berries, and leaf buds. They also opt to consume species of insects. One good thing about these birds is that all species of lovebirds consume almost the same diet. It is best to give them a tablespoon of seed per day. In addition, a combination of fruits and berries will suffice the bird’s nutrients, vitamins, and minerals when in captivity.

There are essentially nine types of lovebirds. 

1. Rosy-Faced Or Peach-Faced Lovebird

These are the most common species that bird owners have in their aviary. Even with their rosy, pink faces and throat, they are easy to care for but beware and sometimes have aggressive tendencies. So, be careful when handling them. They are natives of Southwest Africa and are not picky with their habitat. Lovebirds thrive in open countryside, woodlands, mountains, and semi-desert regions as long as water sources are not scarce. 

These birds are significantly small, stand 7 to 8 inches from head to tail tip, and weigh under 2 ounces.  

2. Black-Masked Or Yellow-Collared Lovebirds

Agapornis personata is this love bird’s scientific name. They have black color covering their faces like a mask with a brilliant yellow collar underneath. Their black mask appearances become more noticeable due to the white rings around their eyes. 

They are natives only to the northeast of Tanzania. In terms of their sizes, the males are slightly larger than their counterparts and weigh over 1.75 ounces. 

In other terms, they are relatively more minor than the rosy-faced lovebirds.

3. Fischer’s Lovebirds

These birds are well-known not just because of their multicolored appearances but also their playful nature. Even with their playful demeanor, they are pretty reserved and quiet compared to other species of parrots. Nevertheless, they are a ball of energy and usually hit it off with other birds when comfortable. 

Fischer lovebirds stand out in vibrant green-blue colors with a noticeable nuance on their chests, backs, and wings. Gradually, their colors fade into golden yellow and turn orange and brown on their heads. Fischer’s are indigenous to small African regions along Lake Victoria’s southern belt in Tanzania. 

They are the smallest among the lovebird species—standing for about 5 inches and scales between 1.5 to 2 ounces. 

4. Lilian’s Lovebirds

Known as the Nyasa Lovebirds. They have a small stature with a green and orange colored chest and head. Lilians are considered the smallest parrot on mainland Africa and are hard to breed when in captivity since it is uncommon and hard to find. 

Unfortunately, Lilian’s population trend is decreasing, and its population status is near threatened. 

5. Black-Cheeked Lovebirds

This dark-faced and olive-green-colored bird flourish more in farmlands and woodlands. They have shrilling and loud shrieks even when their sizes are 5.5 inches tall. The males and females have an absolute weight difference wherein males weigh around 38 gm while females weigh 43 gm. 

Grass seeds, vegetables, fruits, and insect larvae are their basic diets, and similar to Lilian’s lovebirds, they are also near threatened. Therefore, these are not as common as other lovebirds as pets. 

6. Abyssinian Lovebirds

You can find these lovebirds in the mountain areas south of Eritrea and southwestern Ethiopia. These lovebirds are called Taranta and measure between 6 to 6 ½ inches with 48 grams in weight. 

Abyssinian lovebirds have bright red beaks and heads with lively hues of greens at the bottom of their tails and have black shades of underwings. 

There are times that females stand out with green shades without any hues of black and red on their frames. 

7. Grey-Headed Lovebirds

Sometimes known as Madagascar, Lovebirds have an appearance of unique colored patterns wherein females have green feathers with a darker shader on their wings and across their backs. In contrast, males have a saturated gray color compared to off-whites. 

These lovebirds are found in the islands of Madagascar and thrive in rainforests due to the environment being rich in water sources. These lovebirds measure 5 inches and scale between 1 and 1.25 ounces. 

8. Red-Faced Lovebirds

These red-shaded lovebirds, called Red-headed lovebirds, have the broadest territorial stretch among other classes of lovebirds. They flock in Africa, Sierra Leone, Lake Albert in Uganda, and northern Angola; over the period to Liberia. 

They commonly settle along forest edges and can occasionally be found in high forests. They have a knack for traveling long distances to forage and find sustenance for their flocks. Their diets include grass seeds, servings of fruits, and cultivated crops. 

They may be the very first lovebird imported into Europe. Red-faced lovebirds have weak and high-pitched trilling or tweet, and when frightened or alarmed, they produce whistling sounds. As for nesting and breeding, they harmonize with other classes of lovebirds and establish nests on termite mounds. 

9. Swindon’s Lovebird

Swindon’s lovebirds, or Black-collared lovebirds, are a rare type of lovebird. Heinrich Kuhl discovered them in 1820. These birds spread across a wide range in equatorial Africa. More specifically, the forests of Cameroon, the Central African Republic, the Republic of Congo, the Democratic of Congo, and more. 

Black-collared lovebirds measure 13 to 13.5 cm in length and scale between 39 to 41 grams. They have a somewhat paler green color on the head, upper frame, and back. In addition, its unique feature would be its black half collar located at the nape or back of their necks. These lovebirds sport orange or olive-yellow shades on their bellies with vibrant blue and red markings. 

What To Consider? 

Supposed to say that you are highly motivated to mix or harmonize your parrots with another of its species, it’s still crucial to consider the factors before doing so. On May 26, 2021, the Northern Parrots posted reliable suggestions before introducing another type of parrot in your aviary. Here are the considerations: (source)

1. Separate Accommodations

Even though parrots are highly sociable and somewhat accepting, other parrots in their cages can sometimes backfire if not done appropriately. It often results in stressful conflict for both your birds and you. 

Therefore, when introducing another parrot, ensure that this specific bird is in a secured cage inside the aviary. After that, monitor the birds’ behavior and interaction for a few days. Ensure that all birds in your aviary can get to know the new bird. (source)

2. Same Species

It Is difficult to accept, but it is ideal for introducing the same species of parrots, for example, placing a cockatiel towards a flock of cockatiels. It is the most straightforward way to mix parrots. In some lucky instances, some parrots accept other types of parrots. 

By contrast, Avian experts discourage mixed pairs in an aviary, especially when these birds are in a breeding situation. Due to intraspecies, birds on the same pair show intense aggression and territorial behaviors. Aside from the intraspecies condition, you must consider bird sizes as well. 

3. Temperance

It is a fact that parrots exhibit unique personalities and behavior, which sometimes work well with counterpart species like males or females. Sometimes parrots can accept other birds even when they are mature, but they also behave aggressively toward new birds in their aviary. Therefore, as parrot owners, you should carefully and meticulously consider the temperance of your parrots. Not all parrots have the same control and discipline. 

Summary

Identifying the unique classifications or parrots helps distinguish the best parrots to mix with your feathered buddy. Another thing to consider is how you approach or introduce a new bird to your aviary. Regardless, parrots such as cockatiels, parakeets, and budgies hit it off as long as there is proper monitoring and reading of body language. 

On the other hand, it is challenging to introduce larger parrots like Macaws, African Gray Parrot, and Cockatiels due to their different temperance. Hence, it’s essential to proceed when introducing another type of parrot into your aviary cautiously. 

Nevertheless, everything will not go downhill with proper training, monitoring, and interaction. It’s all part of how you keep up with the unique personalities of your parrots. 

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