8 Popular Large Birds to Keep as Pets By Alyson Kalhagen Alyson Kalhagen Alyson Kalhagen is an avian expert and writer with more than 10 years of combined professional experience as a veterinary technician and manager of a chain of successful pet stores. Her specialty is in avian behavior and socialization. Alyson owns several birds and has been featured in Bird Talk Magazine. Learn more about The Spruce Pets' Editorial Process Updated on 07/26/25 Credit: boti / Getty Images Key Takeaways Large birds require significant commitment due to their long lifespans and need for socialization and space.The species discussed have varied physical characteristics and specific care needs.Despite their size, these birds can be affectionate and bond strongly with their caretakers. Birds of all types and sizes are captivating creatures, but large birds are especially impressive. Many can learn to talk and perform tricks and they can be highly affectionate and playful. Remember, large birds require ample space and can be quite loud. Their care expenses can also be high. If you're ready for the commitment, here are eight of the best large pet bird species. Justification: Simplified language for easier reading and improved flow. Tip Many large bird species can live for 50 years or longer. Ensure you have a plan to care for the bird throughout its entire lifespan before acquiring one. 8 Top Loudest Parrots Often Kept as Pets 01 of 08 Eclectus Credit: Kuksy Makota / Getty Images Eclectus parrots are a dimorphic species, meaning male and female birds have different feather colors. The male is bright green with red and blue accents, while the female is brilliant red with a blue-purple belly. Living around 30 to 50 years in captivity, these parrots are generally intelligent and affectionate. They are also sensitive and can become depressed if neglected. Species Overview Length: 17 to 20 inchesWeight: 13 to 19 ouncesPhysical Characteristics: Primarily emerald green, red and blue under wings, and orange beak (male); primarily bright red, blue on chest and tail, and black beak (female) 02 of 08 Sulphur-Crested Cockatoo Credit: Andrew Lancaster / Getty Images The sulphur-crested cockatoo is one of the largest cockatoo species. With proper care, it can live up to 80 years in captivity. An aviary environment is ideal for these birds, giving them room to climb and fly. They're highly affectionate and can be demanding of their human�s attention, needing several hours of socialization daily. Species Overview Length: 15 to 20 inchesWeight: 12 to 31 ouncesPhysical Characteristics: Primarily white; crest of yellow feathers; black beak; males have dark brown to black irises while females have reddish-brown 03 of 08 Double Yellow-Headed Amazon Credit: Daniela Duncan / Getty Images The double yellow-headed Amazon is a popular Amazon species, living around 60 years in captivity. These birds are highly intelligent and possess a remarkable ability to mimic sounds, including opera singing. They generally love attention and can be noisy, especially if bored or ignored. Species Overview Length: 15 to 17 inchesWeight: 16 to 23 ouncesPhysical Characteristics: Green body; yellow head; red at the wing bend; tan beak; white rings around the eyes 04 of 08 Scarlet Macaw Credit: Francia Apesteguy / Getty Images Scarlet macaws can live for 80 years or more, though a 40- to 50-year lifespan is typical. They are very intelligent and energetic, requiring ample mental and physical exercise. An aviary or several hours out of the cage each day is recommended for these birds to burn off their energy. Species Overview Length: 31 to 38 inchesWeight: 32 to 39 ouncesPhysical Characteristics: Vivid red with yellow and blue on wings and tail; white circles around eyes; tan upper bill and black lower bill; black feet Continue to 5 of 8 below 05 of 08 Blue-And-Gold Macaw Credit: Kouichi Tsunoda / Getty Images Blue-and-gold macaws can live around 60 years and need a dedicated caretaker to meet their entertainment and socialization needs. They are friendly birds and enjoy being near their favorite people as much as possible. Being large birds, they can produce loud vocalizations, so they're not ideal for those who prefer a quiet environment. Species Overview Length: 30 to 36 inches Weight: 28 to 46 ouncesPhysical Characteristics: Green forehead fading into teal on nape, back, tail, and wings; yellow chest and underside of wings; large black beak 06 of 08 Red-And-Green Macaw Credit: Mint Images / Getty Images The red-and-green macaw, also known as the green-winged macaw, is one of the largest pet bird species, living around 50 years in captivity. Ideally, it should be housed in an aviary where it can move freely. Potential caretakers should be aware that these birds are voracious chewers, and their powerful beaks can cause damage if they don�t have ample chew toys. Species Overview Length: 26 to 40 inchesWeight: 32 to 60 ouncesPhysical Characteristics: Red on head, shoulders, and breast; green on middle of wings turning to blue toward the tips; teal and red tail, red lines around eyes; tan upper bill and black lower bill 07 of 08 Umbrella Cockatoo Credit: Arthur Morris / Getty Images Umbrella cockatoos are gentle companions that live to about 70 to 80 years. They are among the most affectionate birds you can find, with many enjoying cuddling with their favorite humans or other birds. They require lots of attention daily to prevent feelings of neglect. Umbrella cockatoos do not fare well in confined spaces and need as large an enclosure as possible. Species Overview Length: 18 inches Weight: 16 to 26 ouncesPhysical Characteristics: Primarily white plumage; pale yellow on wings and tail; large white crest; black beak 08 of 08 Hyacinth Macaw Credit: Pete Turner / Getty Images Hyacinth macaws are the largest of all parrots. They require an experienced caretaker with the time and resources to meet their complex care needs for their 60-year lifespan. Few cages can contain this large bird, and an aviary is preferable for comfortable movement. Despite their imposing size, these birds are gentle and can bond strongly with their caretakers. Species Overview Length: 40 inchesWeight: 42 to 51 ouncesPhysical Characteristics: Solid blue plumage; yellow patches around eyes and beak; black beak; dark gray feet Explore more: Parrots & Pet Birds Pet Bird Species Large Bird Breeds