what birds are legal to own in georgia

Cats and dogs make great companions, but they aren’t the only cute critters we’ve welcomed into our lives. Though fewer people own them, birds are another great pet for your home or apartment — provided you understand what you’re getting into! Like different breeds of cats and dogs, different types of birds have different needs, quirks, and personalities. Our Atlanta pet sitting company counts down seven of the best types of birds to own as pets if you live in Georgia.

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7 Best Birds for Beginner Pet Owners in GA

Choosing the right kind of bird to purchase is a crucial consideration for anyone who wants to purchase a bird but is unsure of where to begin. Everything else will be impacted by this, such as where to get the bird from, what kind and quantity of food to buy, how big the cage should be, how to set it up correctly, the bird’s ideal temperature, and pretty much everything else related to responsible pet ownership.

Some bird species are harder to own than others, much like dog breeds. Even if you’re a novice, the following list of popular bird species are great to have as pets.

1. African Grey Parrot: Reaching up to 20 inches in length, the African Grey Parrot is a rather large parrot. African Grey Parrots are well-known for having an incredible lifespan—up to 60 years in captivity—but that’s not the only amazing quality about them. Additionally, African Grey Parrots are incredibly intelligent, which makes them endearing and constantly surprising companions for pet owners who are prepared to give them the time and attention they need.

2. Don’t be fooled by the name; a caique is merely a different species of parrot that has the same vivid, glossy colors as many other members of this well-known family. Though they may be small, caiques can live up to 40 years, just like African Grey Parrots!

3. Canary — For those who own these happy little singers, the expression “sing like a canary” has a new meaning. For hundreds of years, canaries have been cherished pets, and it’s understandable why with their colorful feathers and endearing dispositions.

4. Cockatiel: Within the larger cockatoo family, the cockatiel is the smallest bird species. In the right hands, the cockatiel, easily identified by the flamboyant crest of feathers atop its head, is a sweet and gregarious bird.

5. Finch: Often found in the wild, finches can make wonderful housepets in the correct circumstances. Zebra, owl, and society finches are among the most popular species of finches kept as pets. Although finches are gregarious birds, it is best to keep them with other finches in order to protect them from larger, stronger birds like parrots.

6. Lovebirds are among the creatures that have genuinely lived up to their names, given their well-known sweet and cuddly dispositions. When given the right care, the lovebird can live up to 15 years, similar to other parrot species.

7. The parakeet, also referred to as the “budgie” (a portmanteau for the less appealing “budgerigar”), is a well-liked parrot species possessing an amazing 19-inch wingspan. Depending on the species, parakeet lifespans range from five to twenty years, so be sure to research your new pet’s lifespan before bringing it home!

While they can also be adorable pets, ducks and chicks require particular care that can be challenging for novices.

Even though they are typically small in size, birds require a lot of commitment. Make sure you’re willing and able to give the necessary care before you jump into the thrilling world of bird ownership by taking the time to complete your research. Speak with breeders, veterinarians, and other bird owners, of course. To begin with, Big Birds Aviary in Warner Robins, Brightwood Aviary in Dawsonville, and Thunderbirds USA, which is situated in Atlanta itself, are a few bird breeders in the Atlanta region. With enough work, owning a bird can be a very fulfilling and special relationship that brings joy to the entire family.

FAQ

Can you own an owl in Georgia?

The United States does not allow private individuals to keep native owls as pets–they may only be possessed by trained, licensed individuals while being rehabilitated, as foster parents in a rehabilitation facility, as part of a breeding program, for educational purposes, or certain species may be used for falconry in …

Is it legal to own a lemur in Georgia?

Think twice before buying that lemur, crocodile or piranha as your next pet. Ditto for hippos. They just might be on the list of Georgia’s verboten pets.

Is it legal to own a wolf in Georgia?

By Georgia Law, most native species of wildlife cannot be held without permits or licenses. These licenses are not issued for the purpose of holding native wildlife as pets. These restrictions apply to the various species of animal, regardless of the origin or morphology.

Can you own a eagle in Georgia?

You may not keep a Bald Eagles as a pet in the USA. It is illegal.