Buying Guides

Parrot Noise Levels: A Complete Guide

Parrot noise is one of the most common reasons parrots are rehomed. Understanding noise levels before you buy — and choosing a species appropriate for your living situation — is one of the most important decisions you will make.

Noise levels by species

Here is an honest assessment of noise levels from the species we breed and sell:

SpeciesdB (approx.)CharacterFlat-Suitable?
Hyacinth Macaw105–115 dBDeep booming calls; at dawn/duskNo
Scarlet Macaw100–110 dBLoud screeches; social contact callsNo
Sun Conure95–105 dBPersistent, penetrating; throughout dayNo
Cockatoo100–120 dBScreaming when lonely; intermittentNo
Amazon (Yellow-Naped)85–100 dBLoud song-like calls; dawn/duskDifficult
African Grey75–90 dBVariable; talking, whistling, callsChallenging
Caique70–85 dBChirps, contact calls; short burstsPossible
Green-Cheeked Conure65–75 dBChirping, chattering; not sustainedYes
Pionus65–75 dBModerate; morning focusYes

When parrots are noisiest

Most parrots are noisiest at dawn and dusk — this is hardwired behaviour from the wild, where flock contact calls signal location at the start and end of the day. Managing these peak periods is easier if you can be present and interactive during them, giving the bird positive engagement that reduces the need to call out.

Reducing problem noise

Persistent screaming is almost always a communication of unmet needs. Before concluding a bird is simply noisy, ask: Is it getting enough daily interaction? Is it receiving sufficient enrichment? Is it lonely? Is its routine stable? Addressing the underlying cause almost always reduces problem noise. Never cover the cage as a "punishment" — this is confusing and counterproductive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can parrot noise be trained away?

Contact calling (natural flock communication) cannot and should not be eliminated. Problem screaming (persistent attention-seeking screaming) can be significantly reduced through training — specifically, by not reinforcing it with attention and by ensuring the bird's needs are met before it reaches the point of screaming.

What is the quietest parrot you breed?

The Green-Cheeked Conure and the Pionus species are our quietest. They produce vocalisations but at a volume that most flat and semi-detached house situations can accommodate.

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