Top 11 Talking Pet Birds

Ever wondered which feathered chatterboxes take the prize for non-stop conversation? From morning tweets to evening chirps, the birds that talk the most will leave you in awe.

So, who’s the champion of the birdie banter? We’ve got the scoop right here! Here’s the top 11 talking pet birds…

1. African Grey Parrot

The African Grey Parrot (Psittacus erithacus) is widely regarded as the champion of birds talk.

With their exceptional intelligence and ability to mimic human speech, African Greys can learn and understand words in context, engaging in meaningful conversations.

African Grey Parrot
Scientific NamePsittacus erithacus
Average Lifespan40-60 years (some may live longer)
SizeMedium to large (12-14 inches)
Weight400-550 grams
Native RegionCentral and West Africa
Common ColorsGray with a red tail (wild type)
DietFruits, nuts, seeds, vegetables,
and some protein sources
Personality TraitsHighly intelligent, social,
known for their cognitive abilities
VocalizationExcellent mimics, can imitate
human speech and sounds
Lifespan in CaptivityUp to 80 years
Popular SubspeciesCongo African Grey, Timneh African Grey
Conservation StatusEndangered (CITES Appendix I)

2. Amazon Parrot

Amazon Parrots (Amazona spp.) are renowned for their excellent talking skills. They possess a clear and strong voice and can mimic a wide range of sounds, including human speech.

With proper training and socialization, Amazon Parrots can become skilled conversationalists.

Amazon Parrot
Scientific NameAmazona spp.
Average Lifespan50-60 years (some may live longer)
SizeMedium to large (10-20 inches)
Weight300-900 grams
Native RegionCentral and South America
Common ColorsGreen (varies depending on species)
DietFruits, nuts, seeds, vegetables
Personality TraitsIntelligent, playful, social
VocalizationExcellent mimics, can be loud
Lifespan in CaptivityUp to 80 years
Popular SpeciesYellow-naped Amazon, Blue-fronted Amazon, Mealy Amazon
Conservation StatusVaries by species (some are endangered)

3. Quaker Parakeet

Also known as Monk Parakeets (Myiopsitta monachus), Quakers are small parrots with a big talent for talking.

hey are highly sociable and can pick up words and phrases quickly. Quaker Parakeets enjoy interacting with their human companions through conversation.

Quaker Parakeet (Monk Parakeet)
Scientific NameMyiopsitta monachus
Average Lifespan20-30 years
SizeSmall to medium (11-12 inches)
Weight100-150 grams
Native RegionSouth America (Argentina, Brazil,
Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay)
Common ColorsGreen with gray on the face and chest
DietSeeds, fruits, vegetables
Personality TraitsIntelligent, curious, playful
VocalizationCan be noisy, known for chattering
Lifespan in CaptivityUp to 30 years
Popular NamesMonk Parakeet, Quaker Parrot,
Gray-breasted Parakeet
Conservation StatusLeast Concern

4. Ring-Necked Parakeet

Ring-Necked Parakeets (Psittacula krameri) are colorful parrots known for their talking abilities.

They have a knack for mimicking sounds and can learn words and phrases with consistent training and stimulation. These engaging and lively birds make delightful companions.

Ring-Necked Parakeet
Scientific NamePsittacula krameri
Average Lifespan20-30 years
SizeMedium to large (16-17 inches)
Weight120-200 grams
Native RegionAfrica and South Asia
Common ColorsGreen with a distinctive ring around
the neck (males), green with no ring
(females)
DietFruits, seeds, nuts, berries, flowers
Personality TraitsIntelligent, social, active
VocalizationNoisy, known for loud squawking calls
Lifespan in CaptivityUp to 30 years
PopularityPopular as pets in some regions
Invasive SpeciesConsidered an invasive species in
certain areas, such as Europe
Conservation StatusLeast Concern

5. Eclectus Parrot

Eclectus Parrots (Eclectus roratus) are visually stunning birds with remarkable talking skills.

While they may not possess the same mimicry abilities as some other parrot species, Eclectus Parrots can learn words and phrases and effectively communicate with their human counterparts.

Eclectus Parrot
Scientific NameEclectus roratus
Average Lifespan30-50 years
SizeMedium to large (14-20 inches)
Weight400-600 grams (males), 375-500 grams
(females)
Native RegionNew Guinea, northeastern Australia,
Solomon Islands
Common ColorsSexual dimorphism: Males are vibrant
green with red underwing coverts,
females are mostly red with some blue
DietFruits, berries, seeds, flowers,
and vegetation
Personality TraitsIntelligent, gentle, curious
VocalizationVocal and melodious, known for
their distinctive “caw-caw” call
Lifespan in CaptivityUp to 50 years
PopularityHighly sought after as pets
Conservation StatusVaries by species (some are
endangered or vulnerable)

6. Budgerigar

Budgerigars, or Budgies (Melopsittacus undulatus), are small parakeets that have gained popularity as talking pet birds. Despite their small size, Budgies are capable of learning and imitating sounds, including human speech.

These energetic and charismatic birds can form strong bonds with their owners.

Budgerigar
Scientific NameMelopsittacus undulatus
Average Lifespan5-10 years (up to 15 years in some
cases)
SizeSmall (7-8 inches)
Weight30-40 grams
Native RegionAustralia
Common ColorsWild type: Green with yellow head
and black scalloped markings
Numerous color mutations available
DietSeeds, pellets, fruits, vegetables
Personality TraitsSociable, energetic, intelligent
VocalizationChatty, known for melodious
chirping and mimicry
Lifespan in Captivity5-10 years (up to 15 years in some
cases)
PopularityOne of the most popular pet bird
species
Conservation StatusLeast Concern

7. Macaw

Macaws are known for their striking appearance and impressive vocalizations.

While talking abilities may vary among species, many macaws, such as the Blue and Gold Macaw (Ara ararauna), can develop a significant vocabulary and communicate effectively with their human companions.

Macaw
Scientific NameFamily: Psittacidae,
Various species within the family
Average LifespanVaries by species (approx. 30-50 years)
SizeLarge to Extra-large (20-40 inches)
WeightVaries by species (500 grams to over
1.5 kilograms)
Native RegionCentral and South America,
some species found in Mexico and
the Caribbean islands
Common ColorsVibrant colors including reds, blues,
yellows, greens, and combinations
DietFruits, nuts, seeds, berries,
flowers, and occasionally insects
Personality TraitsIntelligent, social, playful,
often bond closely with their owners
VocalizationLoud and powerful calls, capable of
vocalizing a variety of sounds
Lifespan in CaptivityVaries by species (approx. 30-50 years)
Popular SpeciesBlue and Gold Macaw, Scarlet Macaw,
Green-winged Macaw, Hyacinth Macaw,
Military Macaw, and many more
Conservation StatusVaries by species (some are endangered,
critically endangered, or vulnerable)

8. Cockatoo

Cockatoos are charismatic parrots with excellent talking skills. They are highly intelligent and can mimic a wide array of sounds, including human speech.

Cockatoos, such as the Umbrella Cockatoo (Cacatua alba), are known for their engaging personalities and lively conversations.

Cockatoo
Scientific NameFamily: Cacatuidae,
Various species within the family
Average LifespanVaries by species (approx. 40-70 years)
SizeMedium to Large (12-27 inches)
WeightVaries by species (400 grams to over
1.2 kilograms)
Native RegionAustralia, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea,
and surrounding islands
Common ColorsVaried colors including white, pink,
gray, black, and combinations
DietSeeds, nuts, fruits, berries, flowers,
and some insects
Personality TraitsIntelligent, affectionate, social,
may form strong bonds with owners
VocalizationLoud and distinct calls, some species
known for their ability to mimic sounds
Lifespan in CaptivityVaries by species (approx. 40-70 years)
Popular SpeciesUmbrella Cockatoo, Moluccan Cockatoo,
Sulphur-crested Cockatoo,
Rose-breasted Cockatoo, and more
Conservation StatusVaries by species (some are endangered,
critically endangered, or vulnerable)

9. Derbyan Parakeet

Derbyan Parakeets (Psittacula derbiana) are large parakeets native to the Himalayan region.

They possess a unique vocalization style, including melodic calls and repetitive phrases. With the right environment and training, Derbyan Parakeets can become enthusiastic and engaging 

Derbyan Parakeet
Scientific NamePsittacula derbiana
Average Lifespan20-30 years
SizeMedium to large (18-20 inches)
Weight250-350 grams
Native RegionEastern Himalayas, parts of Southeast
Asia (India, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar)
Common ColorsMale: Vibrant green with blue crown
and red patches on wings and tail
Female: Duller green with minimal red
DietFruits, seeds, nuts, berries, flowers
Personality TraitsIntelligent, playful, energetic
VocalizationCan be loud, known for screeches and
whistles
Lifespan in CaptivityUp to 30 years
PopularityLess common as pets compared to other
parrot species
Conservation StatusNear Threatened (IUCN Red List)

10. Hill Myna

The Hill Myna (Gracula religiosa) is a striking bird with glossy black feathers and bright yellow eye patches.

These mynas are known for their exceptional mimicry skills, which include replicating human speech with astonishing accuracy. Hill Mynas can be adept at engaging in interactive conversations.

When considering a talking pet bird, it’s important to remember that individual personalities and consistent training play significant roles in their ability to talk. 

Hill Myna
Scientific NameGracula religiosa
Average Lifespan15-20 years
SizeMedium-sized (9-10 inches)
Weight140-180 grams
Native RegionSoutheast Asia (India, Bangladesh,
Nepal, Myanmar, Thailand)
Common ColorsGlossy black feathers with bright
yellow or orange beak and eye patches
DietOmnivorous: Fruits, insects, small
vertebrates, nectar
Personality TraitsIntelligent, social, vocal
VocalizationExcellent mimicry skills, known for
their ability to mimic human speech
Lifespan in Captivity15-20 years
PopularityPopular as pets and as exhibition
birds for their talking abilities
Conservation StatusLeast Concern

What is the most talkative bird?

The African Grey Parrot is often considered the most talkative bird. With their exceptional intelligence and ability to mimic human speech, African Greys can develop an extensive vocabulary and engage in meaningful conversations.

What bird can speak the most words?

The African Grey Parrot holds the reputation for birds talk the most words among birds. Some individuals have been known to learn hundreds, and even up to a thousand, different words and phrases.

What is the easiest bird to teach to talk?

Among the bird species known for their ease of learning to talk, the Budgerigar, or Budgie, is often considered the easiest. These small parakeets have a knack for mimicry and can quickly pick up words and phrases with consistent training.

What birds talk like humans?

Several bird species have the ability to mimic human speech and sound like humans. Examples include African Grey Parrots, Amazon Parrots, Quaker Parakeets, and some species of macaws and cockatoos.

Who is the most intelligent and talkative bird?

The African Grey Parrot is renowned for being both highly intelligent and talkative. Their exceptional cognitive abilities and remarkable mimicry skills make them one of the most intelligent and conversational bird species.

What is the loudest bird to own?

The loudest bird to own is often considered the Moluccan Cockatoo. These large parrots have powerful vocalizations and can produce loud calls and screeches that can carry over long distances.

What animal can talk the most?

While birds, particularly parrots, are known for their ability to talk, humans remain the most proficient and versatile in terms of speech and language capabilities.

What’s the smartest parrot?

The African Grey Parrot is widely regarded as one of the smartest parrot species. Their exceptional problem-solving skills, advanced cognitive abilities, and impressive communication skills contribute to their reputation as highly intelligent birds to talk.

Which bird can learn 150 human words?

The Indian Ringneck Parakeet (also known as the Rose-ringed Parakeet) is a species of parrot that has been reported to learn and use around 150 human words with proper training and socialization.

Do talking birds understand us?

While talking birds can mimic and repeat human words, their understanding of the words and their meaning may vary. Some birds talk, like African Grey Parrots, can demonstrate a limited understanding of certain words and phrases in context, but it’s important to note that their comprehension is not the same as a human’s.

Can birds hear human voices?

Yes, birds can hear human voices. They have well-developed auditory systems that allow them to detect and interpret a wide range of sounds, including human speech. In fact, some bird species, like parrots, are particularly adept at imitating human voices and speech patterns.

What small birds talk the most?

Among small bird species, Budgerigars, or Budgies, are known for their talkative nature. Despite their small size, Budgies have impressive mimicry skills and can learn and repeat words and phrases with proper training and socialization.

Julian Goldie - Owner of ChiperBirds.com

Julian Goldie

I'm a bird enthusiast and creator of Chipper Birds, a blog sharing my experience caring for birds. I've traveled the world bird watching and I'm committed to helping others with bird care. Contact me at [email protected] for assistance.