Native Australian birds are a spectacular testament to our country’s unique wildlife, offering a range of striking colours, distinctive calls and engaging personalities.
For those living in Australia, keeping these birds as pets provides an opportunity to enjoy and appreciate the beauty of the nation’s natural avifauna right in their homes. Native birds often have adapted to local environments, making them well-suited to Australian climates and living conditions.
Whether you’re drawn to their vibrant plumage, melodious songs or charming behaviours, these birds make fascinating and lively companions. In this blog, we will explore nine different species of native Australian birds, each with its own unique features and appeal. Discover what makes these birds so special and why they might be the perfect addition to your home.
Australian Budgerigar
The Australian Budgerigar, commonly known as the Budgie, originates from the arid interior of Australia. This small parrot is known for its lively personality and distinctive pattern of stripes on its head and back. Budgies are popular pets due to their friendly nature, affordability and ability to mimic human speech.
Australian Finch
The Australian Finch is a tiny bird native to the eastern and northern regions of Australia. Characterised by its bright plumage and distinctive patterns, this finch is often found in grasslands and open woodlands. Australian Finches are known for their cheerful chirps and active, social nature.
Australian King Parrot
The Australian King Parrot is native to the eastern and northeastern regions of Australia, including rainforests and woodlands. This striking parrot is known for its vibrant red and green plumage and impressive size.
While Australian King Parrots can form strong bonds with their owners, they require ample space and mental stimulation, making them a somewhat demanding pet.
Cockatiel
The Cockatiel, native to the inland regions of Australia, is a charming, small parrot with a distinctive crest and striking cheek patches. Known for its gentle nature and ability to mimic sounds, this bird is easily recognisable by its soft grey plumage and vibrant orange highlights. Cockatiels make affectionate companions and enjoy interactive play.
Eclectus Parrot
The Eclectus Parrot, native to the northeastern regions of Australia, is renowned for its striking sexual dimorphism, with males and females displaying distinctly different plumage. Males have vibrant green feathers, while females are adorned in rich red and purple hues.
Known for their calm demeanour and intelligence, Eclectus Parrots make engaging and affectionate companions.
Galah
The Galah, also known as the Rose-breasted Cockatoo, is native to a wide range across Australia, from arid regions to coastal areas. Recognisable by its pink underparts and grey wings, this cockatoo is known for its playful and intelligent nature.
While Galahs make affectionate pets, they can be challenging to keep due to their high noise levels, need for social interaction, and potential for destructive behaviour.
Rainbow Lorikeet
The Rainbow Lorikeet is a vibrant, multi-coloured parrot native to the eastern and northern coastal regions of Australia. This striking bird is known for its bright plumage, featuring a dazzling mix of green, blue, red and orange. Rainbow Lorikeets are highly social and active, enjoying interaction and requiring ample space to thrive.
Rosella
The Rosella, found primarily in southeastern Australia and Tasmania, is a medium-sized parrot recognised for its eye-catching plumage. Its vibrant feathers often feature a mix of red, blue and yellow, creating a striking appearance. Rosellas are known for their lively behaviour and melodious calls, making them both captivating and engaging pets.
Sulphur-Crested Cockatoo
The Sulphur-Crested Cockatoo is native to the eastern and northern parts of Australia, including rainforests and woodlands. It is distinguished by its striking white feathers and a vivid yellow crest that can be raised to display a dramatic fan-like shape.
Known for their intelligence, these cockatoos can be challenging pets due to their need for constant mental stimulation and strong vocalisations.
If you’re considering getting a pet bird, we offer a range of quality bird cages that are perfect for accommodating smaller breeds. These cages allow you to set up a comfortable and secure environment for your feathered friend.