Which breeds of bird are most affectionate?
by 
Mary Price
ANSWERS: 5
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There really aren’t any breeds that are more affectionate. It all depends on how much time you devote to taking care of it. It’s just how they are brought up (chickens can be affectionate and we have a macaw that has broken two fingers already).
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There are many species of birds that are affectionate, but some are considered more so than others. For instance, Cockatoos are very needy, and love to give and get affection. However, this is not a bird that a novice should get, as they are extremely loud, intelligent, destructive at times, and in need of a lot of stimulation. Consider the reasons why affection in a bird is important to you, because there are other qualities in a bird that are imparative to consider before getting one. Budgies and Cockatiels are less demanding, and considered both sweet and affectionate. This type of bird would be a better choice for someone who has never had a bird before.
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When you say birds, I think of ~all~ birds. When hand raised many species becomes affectionate and enjoy contact. Geese will nibble you and groom you, a hand raised peacock will put its head down for scratches. Birds such as hawks, owls, and eagles are never cuddly, but they require special permits to own, and need very special care. Chickens, songbirds (again most are illegal to own, except for starlings and european housesparrows in the US, in fact, and native wildlife is usually illegal) and doves/pigeons don't become very affectionate. I've never known anyone to cuddle with an ostrich, emu, or rhea, though I can't say for sure you couldn't raise a snuggle-ostrich, I don't know enough. Out of all birds, parrots like to kiss and cuddle the most, but a goose will fly after you and stick by you, I had one that sat in my lap while I rubbed his neck and he made happy grumbling noises. I'm rehabbing woodpecker chicks right now, and by the number of times they've stabbed me I can assure you they are not affectionate birds.
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From experience, the african grey can be extremely affectionate, only when hand reared. They have large insecurities and demand much attention. My own parrot will cry when we leave home and runs to us when we come back. She also only seems content when she is either sitting on us or is close by, we compare her to having a young child.
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I have read that the Cockatoo is very affectionate. To me though, any bird I think can be affectionate as long as it has a great relationship with its owner, regardless of its species. I personally have an african grey who is very loving and likes to be cuddled, yet I read about how they don't really like cuddling. It is all about the bond.
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