Not all parrots are ear-splitting. If you live in a flat, a semi-detached house, or simply want a bird that won't test your relationship with the neighbours, several parrot species are genuinely suitable for quieter living situations.
| Species | Noise Level | Flat-Friendly? | Peak Calling |
|---|---|---|---|
| Green-Cheeked Conure | Low–Moderate | Yes | Dawn & dusk |
| Pionus (all species) | Low–Moderate | Yes | Morning |
| Caique | Moderate | Possible | Throughout day |
| Eclectus | Moderate | Possible | Morning |
| Amazon (most species) | Loud | Difficult | Dawn & dusk |
| African Grey | Moderate–Loud | Challenging | Variable |
| Macaw | Very Loud | No | Dawn & dusk |
| Sun Conure | Very Loud | No | Continuous |
| Cockatoo | Extremely Loud | No | Variable |
1. Green-Cheeked Conure — the best all-round option for apartment living. Small enough that cage space is manageable, affectionate, playful, and their vocalisations are chirps rather than screams. Highly recommended for city dwellers.
2. Pionus parrot — calm, gentle, and significantly quieter than most medium-to-large parrots. Maximilian's Pionus in particular is an excellent choice for those wanting a larger bird in a noise-sensitive environment.
3. Caique — moderate noise level, and while they produce sharp chirps, they rarely sustain loud screaming. Their entertaining personality makes them a popular choice for flat-dwellers willing to invest in enrichment.
Even quieter species will vocalise — this is non-negotiable for any parrot. You can significantly reduce nuisance noise by: ensuring the bird has sufficient daily interaction; providing adequate enrichment; establishing a consistent daily routine; avoiding rewarding screaming with attention; covering the cage at dusk to signal bedtime. A parrot that screams constantly is almost always communicating unmet needs, not being wilfully noisy.
The Green-Cheeked Conure is widely considered the best choice for flat or apartment living among parrots. The Pionus species are also excellent low-noise options for those wanting a slightly larger bird.
Yes, depending on the species and your neighbours' tolerance. Green-Cheeked Conures, Pionus, and Caiques are reasonable choices. Macaws, Sun Conures, and Cockatoos produce noise levels that most flat situations cannot accommodate comfortably.
Browse our current availability and get in touch for pricing, delivery timelines, and documentation details.