I chose a Cockatiel because my sister in law had one, and I fell in love with him because he was so cute. I visited a store several times that sold only birds, owned by a breeder and Bird specialist. I observed the behavior of each of the young birds for sale. I watched how they interacted with the other birds, and if they were friendly or stand offish with humans. After about five or six visits, I chose my little Kirby because he was smart, outgoing, friendly and full of amusing antics. He also loved to chase after the girls! Not bad for a bird only a few months old. I have never regretted my choice. He is very sweet and loving, and he has learned so much. Even after six years, he is till very teachable and learns new tricks, words, and songs. I never know what he will come up with next. Now my daughters and I are the only girls he can "chase" after, but he is always cat whistling at us, so I guess he hasn't given up!
He has also become a favorite of our friends. Everyone that comes to the house has to visit Kirby before they pay a bit of attention to us!