Cuddle birds
The most affectionate parrots
By Sherwin, Mysher Aviary · breeding parrots since 2001 · updated September 2026
Quick answer
The most affectionate parrots are green-cheek conures, sun conures and jenday conures. They love being handled, riding on shoulders and snuggling, especially when hand-raised. The trade-off is attention: cuddly birds want company every day, and umbrella cockatoos need an experienced, home-a-lot family.
Our cuddliest birds
Ranked by how affectionate they are, then by how easy they are to keep.
1Green-cheek ConureAsk about the next clutchBig personality in a small, quieter package. A favourite first parrot for condos.Beginner-friendly Noise Talking 
2Sun Conure1 ready nowSocial and affectionate — plan on a couple of hours of hang-out time every day.Beginner-friendly Noise Talking 
3Jenday ConureAsk about the next clutchCuddly, playful and loyal. Happiest joining in with whatever the family is doing.Beginner-friendly Noise Talking 
4Umbrella CockatooAsk about the next clutchThe ultimate cuddle bird. Needs a family who's home a lot and ready for a big commitment.Beginner-friendly Noise Talking 
5Cockatiel3 ready nowSweet, easy-going and a great whistler. One of the best first birds you can get.Beginner-friendly Noise Talking 
6African Lovebird1 pairSmall but full of personality. Pairs keep each other company; hand-raised singles bond with you.Beginner-friendly Noise Talking
Compare every bird we raise
| Bird | Beginner | Noise | Talking | Size | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Green-cheek Conure | About 26 cm | 15–25 years | |||
| Cockatiel | 30–33 cm | 15–25 years | |||
| African Lovebird | 15–18 cm | 10–15 years | |||
| Gold-capped Conure | About 30 cm | 25–30 years | |||
| St. Thomas Conure | About 25 cm | 20–30 years | |||
| Sun Conure | About 30 cm | 20–30 years | |||
| Jenday Conure | About 30 cm | 25–30 years | |||
| Eclectus Parrot | 35–42 cm | 30–50 years | |||
| Alexandrine Parakeet | 56–62 cm with tail | 25–40 years | |||
| White-bellied Caique | About 23 cm | 25–40 years | |||
| Indian Ringneck Parakeet | About 40 cm with tail | 25–30 years | |||
| African Grey Parrot | About 33 cm | 40–60 years | |||
| Blue-naped Parrot | About 31 cm | 25–30 years | |||
| Blue-backed Parrot | About 30 cm | 25–30 years | |||
| Umbrella Cockatoo | About 46 cm | 40–60+ years |
Common questions
Umbrella cockatoos are famously cuddly, but they need an experienced family who's home a lot. For most homes, green-cheek and sun conures are just as sweet and much easier.
Meet them before you decide
Visit our DENR-licensed aviary in Baesa, Quezon City. No online payment, no pressure.