African Grey
The very clever African grey is frequently recognized as the best talking bird, with some individuals amassing vocabularies of hundreds of words.
There’s also evidence that these parrots can have simple conversations using words in context, though that doesn’t always mean they understand what they’re saying.
In any event, years of patient training and practice are required for this type of verbalization.
Budgerigar
The budgie (or parakeet) is an exceptional talking bird, not to be outdone by larger birds. In fact, budgies have broken world records for having the most extensive avian vocabulary.
Despite their gravelly voices, budgies are capable of learning a wide range of words and phrases. Because they are gregarious birds, many enjoy practicing their speech with their caregivers.
Amazon Parrot
Many Amazon parrots can learn to speak with amazing clarity, and their voices are often very sweet. Their intrinsic desire to socialize may be what drives them to imitate humans.
They’re energetic, clever birds who enjoy being the focus of attention. They form tight bonds with their caregivers and require a lot of social interaction as well as enough of space to play.
Indian Ringneck Parakeet
Indian ringneck parakeets appear to have a talent for learning lengthier phrases in addition to short words. They also tend to speak clearly.
Religious authorities in India who conducted daily prayers in their gardens began to notice local ringnecks repeating the chants centuries ago. This prompted the birds to be revered and, as a result, people to keep them as pets.
Quaker Parrot
Quaker parrots, sometimes known as monk parakeets, are forbidden in some regions of the United States due to feral flocks, so check local laws if you want to adopt one.
Quakers are very social people who understand human conversation rapidly. Because they are such quick learners, they are popular among inexperienced bird owners who are new to teaching their birds to talk.
Eclectus
While Eclectus parrots are normally quiet, they can gain a large vocabulary of human words. These birds are sociable and mild in general, and they thrive on socialization with their keepers.
According to some, a male Eclectus is often easier to teach, whereas the female bird is more autonomous and hence better equipped to manage stress.
Cockatoo
Although they aren’t particularly good talkers, cockatoos can learn a few words and phrases. They are incredibly gregarious and friendly,
bordering on needy at times, and caretakers should prepare to spend hours interacting with their birds each day. On the plus side, this link encourages cockatoos to practice tricks with their humans, including communication.
Macaw
Macaws, like cockatoos, aren’t as eloquent as some other parrots, but they can mimic speech. Some birds, such as the blue-and-gold macaw, are known to learn words faster than others.
While their speech isn’t always apparent, macaws are generally loud birds. Expect a bird to converse to you—just not necessarily in a language you understand.