Choosing the right pet can be overwhelming. Once you have determined what kind of pet to get, there are even more choices to make. If you are interested in owning a bird, but are not sure what kind to get, this list might be helpful. While all birds require attentive care, some are less expensive and take up less of your time. Lifestyle also plays a role in deciding which bird may be for you. Once you have determined that a bird is the right pet for you, consider one of these species.

Cockatiels—Difficult to resist their charm, the cockatiel is a favorite with both beginners and experienced bird owners. They are very affectionate, relatively inexpensive and easy to maintain. Due to their small size, cockatiels do not need huge cages or large toys. They are also known to be gentle on their toys. Inexpensive to feed, the major requirements of cockatiels are regular veterinary exams and daily socialization.

African Grays—Intelligent, sensitive, quiet, affectionate and independent, African Grays are a close second on the favorite list. In addition to their personalities, their size is considered a plus. Larger than cockatiels, their size makes them easy and ideal to handle.

Budgies—Their playfulness, affectionate nature, lower cost and easy maintenance make Budgies a good choice for any bird enthusiast. Their size fits into most any home, the noise level is low, they do not damage furniture and their toys take longer to destruct. Loved for their charm and talking ability, Budgies are easy and lovable companions.

Cockatoos—Though there are a number of species of cockatoos, Umbrella Cockatoos appear to be the favorite. Owners rave about their gentleness, loving nature and high intelligence. Cockatoos have unlimited capability to learn tricks, commands and a large vocabulary. Popular and well-liked among bird owners, cockatoos are one of the larger birds and require an equal amount of care. They need large cages, lots of toys (they tend to destroy them happily!) and their food bills can be high. According to owners, the benefits of owning a cockatoo far outweigh the problems.

Macaws—Some of the longest living pet birds, Macaws can also be the most colorful. Blue and gold and scarlet are the main colors associated with Macaws; however, they can be some variation. Because they vary in size, it is difficult to estimate cost or care effectively. Smaller macaws require smaller cages while larger macaws require roomier lodgings. Macaws enjoy tearing toys apart, can be trained to do tricks and have marvelous mimicry ability.

Conures—Conures are popular as they are loyal, naturally gentle, quiet (except for alarm calls), and have the ability to speak. Among the various types of Conures, green-cheeked appear to be the favorite. Though they are lovable and affectionate, they are also considered excellent guard birds due to their uncanny ability to identify danger or trouble. Conures do not take up as much space as larger parrots and generally do not require more care than any other bird of its size.

Amazons—Affectionate, independent and possessing strong personalities, Amazons are truly enjoyed by their owners. Talkers, players, and known to wear their moods on their wings, Amazons are full of spunk, yet also have an affectionate, cuddly side. Yellow-nape Amazons generally take the popularity vote though there are other kinds of Amazons that provide just as much fun.

Quakers—Known as attention hogs but easy to maintain, Quakers are happily cared for by their owners. Known for their personalities, easy maintenance, sweetness and talking capabilities, Quakers can bring joy to any bird owner. They enjoy varied diets and generally do not destroy their toys.

Keep in mind that this is a short list of pet bird possibilities. These birds have the qualities someone looking for companionship might seek. While canaries, finches or other species may be the right kind of pet, they don’t need as much interaction as the larger birds do. Bird owners swear that there is no "best bird" to own and that there are many factors to take into consideration when choosing a bird. Previous bird experience, time commitment, cost, space and personality are at the top of the list. It is possible that one particular bird is great for one person while that same bird may not be right for another.

Owning a pet bird is a long-term commitment. Before jumping into it, take the time to consider your needs, lifestyle and the cost.