Species of Outdoor Birds?

[ItsSoFluffeh]

HI! I REALLY want a pet bird (well, a few 8D) but, my mom's condition is that they need to be outside and not horribley high matenence. YES I am going to put a LOT of time into these birds, but I can't spend that much money... :/

ANYWAYS! I'm looking for kinds of birds who can live outside...I know of:

Ducks
Geese
Guineas
Swans
Chickens
Turkey

If you know anything let me know! If you have anything that has a lifespan of less than ten years, that'll probably help... cause thats the only reason I can't get geese! Haha, THANK YOU!

OH and I live where its heavily wooded and gets down to around -3 degees F, and lately we've been getting about 3 feet of snow in the winter! Just gotta be a little sturdy! I'm gonna be making an awesome coop/run though!

[Rich]

If you can use some eggs, why not get a small flock of commercial laying type birds. They would need daily care in picking up eggs, feeding and watering (especially in the winter when the water would freeze). I would stay away from waterfowl if you are not willing to deal with the ice as they really should have water to swim and clean themselves in on a regular basis. Swans live as long or longer than geese so be aware of that. Finally guineas can be quite noisey and turkey's can be big (depending on the breed you select). Just a few thought to consider.

[Oregon Swedes]

Swans are notoriously foul tempered, so I suggest that you take them off your wish list.

If you are near the woods, you will need to invest in very secure coops and runs. Otherwise, your new pet will simply be someone's free dinner. If it is cold, the birds will need shelter where they can stay dry and out of the wind.

You might consider pigeons. They take up very little space. They come in marvelous varieties with all sorts of lovely feathering. They are very easy care, and they are relatively quiet.

Why 10 years? Can't you take your birds with you when you leave home?

[Mary]

ItsSoFluffeh, Bantam chickens are great. Two of them together would give each other company and be entertaining to you. Silkies and some of the other Bantams make excellent pets. Silkies that get daily attention and petting can be excellent pets and ride around with you, come up to you in the yard, even come looking for you. I am thinking their life expectancy is around 10-12 years. Many doves are 10-12 years. Best of luck with your choice.