COCKATIELS

Cockatiels are considered ideal pet parrots due to their gentle nature, elegant beauty, and popularity, ranking between budgerigars and larger exotic parrots. Known for their sweet and lovable temperament, these birds enjoy attention and often seek affection, such as being scratched behind the crest or on the cheeks. Cockatiels can live up to 15 to 20 years or more in captivity, making them long-term companions. They are known for their ability to learn tricks, mimic speech and sounds, and entertain their owners with their whistling skills.

Sexing:

Sexing young cockatiels can be challenging until the first molt at around 6 months. Until then, all cockatiels may appear female. Males often exhibit bright yellow heads, solid-colored underside tail feathers, and a loss of spots in the case of Pearl Cockatiels after the first molt. Females generally retain traces of yellow on the face and barred tail feathers. Both male and female cockatiels make good pets, but mirrors are not recommended for male cockatiels, as they may become aggressive to protect their perceived “mate.”

Diet:

A balanced diet for cockatiels includes seeds, pellets, and a variety of fresh, frozen, or canned (without salt) vegetables. Recommended vegetables include fresh greens, corn, peas, carrots, beets, broccoli, and fruits like apple, pear, melon, grapes, and berries. Additionally, cockatiels can be fed cooked rice, beans, pasta, brown bread, unsalted nuts, tofu, cheese, and scrambled or hard-boiled egg. High vitamin A foods like carrots, leafy greens, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin are essential. Calcium sources such as cuttlebones and mineral blocks are crucial, and eggshells or Tums can be given for additional calcium.

Bathing:

Bathing is a natural behavior for cockatiels and helps keep their feathers clean. Owners can provide a dish of water or use a plant mister for bathing. Regular bathing reduces dust and keeps the bird’s skin moist.

Cages:

Cockatiels are playful birds that benefit from large cages with horizontal bars for climbing. The cage spacing should not exceed 3/4″, and a grate at the bottom helps prevent ingestion of droppings and spoiled foods. Suitable cage lining materials include black and white newspaper, paper bags, or paper towels.

Perches:

Varied perch sizes and materials are recommended to exercise the bird’s feet. Natural perches, safe wood, and branches provide diversity, and proper care should be taken to ensure safe wood sources.

Toys:

Cockatiels are intelligent and easily bored, making toys essential for mental stimulation. A variety of toys should be provided, including wood toys for beak trimming. Toys can be purchased or crafted from household items.

Wing Clipping:

Clipping both wings is recommended for keeping cockatiels tame and preventing escape. This practice is not painful and involves trimming the long flight feathers. Professional assistance is advised to avoid causing pain and bleeding.

Spending Time with Your Bird:

To foster a happy and lovable pet cockatiel, spending time with the bird is crucial. Daily interaction, talking, and playing contribute to a strong bond. Including the bird in family activities and offering healthy foods during mealtime enhances the relationship.

Night Frights:

Cockatiels may experience “night frights,” characterized by sudden frantic movements in the dark. A night light near the cage or leaving one side uncovered can help prevent these episodes. If a bird has a broken blood feather during a night fright, prompt and calm removal is necessary to avoid excessive bleeding. In emergency cases, immediate veterinary assistance is crucial.