So I am going to get my first bird. I would like something with a little size, and has quite the personality. I live in a large home where noise is not an issue. I was thinking an Indian Ringneck, but i’ve heard mixed reviews.
The best one is the parrot that picks you, whether from a breeder, pet shop or rescue. I'd rather have a budgie or conure that thinks I am the tits, rather then a Han's Macaw that merely tolerates me.
A lot depends on your budget, there are many mid-size parrots that make great companions, like Quaker Parrots that are not too dear, all the way to the mini-macaws and small Amazons, like my yellow shoulder amazon, Salty, which can get up there.
Ringnecks are a special species. THey dont usually like to be touched, and can take a long time to settle down and bond. They need to be interacted with almost daily or they can revert to an almost wild state. Some talk, some dont. As a first parrot, my opinion is no.
Just remember, every parrot is it's own bird so to speak, an individual who may or may not conform to established norms for that species.
In your situation, I like the idea of a single bird, hand-reared and tame...
Cage size? Bigger is almost always better... bar-spacing is what's critical. Too small for the head to fit through, large enough to be climbable.
If you're away, you'll want to have a house-sitter, or maybe take the bird with you! Or take the bird to a sitter. In any event, you'll need to get the bird used to travel in a carrier.
Another must... a Certified Avian Veterinarian... before you get your bird... you'll need a "baseline" exam and regular follow-ups. Most vets aren't comfortabe with seeing bird.
Plus, in the event of an emergency, you don't want to be Googling for local bird vets.
Species differences? You've got me at a loss there. I do suspect that taming, training, etc. is more important than species of lovebird. Gender may be an issue, too, I don't know.
Lovebird folks? Thoughts?
Good for you, for all the thought you're putting into this. I admire that!