Birds Compatible With Cockatiels

Cockatiels are small birds -- usually about 12 to 14 inches long and no more than 6 ounces, says cockatiel.com -- known as excellent pets and easy to train. Their feathers vary in color scheme, with yellow, white and gray generally dominant. Originally from Australia, cockatiels can be kept in both indoor and outdoor aviaries depending on location and climate. A gentle nature and disposition allow cockatiels to be comfortably housed with not only other cockatiels but also a number of different species. There are a many factors to consider to ensure optimum compatibility.

  1. Compatible Birds

    • Cockatiels are compatible with many other bird species because they are not aggressive and cannot inflict a severe bite. While cockatiels can be housed with other cockatiels, breeding season can create aggressive and territorial behavior in males and females. All new birds, regardless of species, should be introduced incrementally (start them in separate cages) to reduce the risk of injury. King, princess and Bourke parrots have proved successful house mates. Other potentially compatible species include scarlet-chested parrots, red-fronted yellow Turquoise neophemas and Gouldian finches. These birds tend to tolerate other similarly sized species.

    Other Potential Matches

    • Birds that come from the same natural geographic region as cockatiels, such as budgies, generally have a higher success rate at cohabiting with cockatiels, except during breeding season. Like cockatiels, budgies are social and docile, and in general, they easily accept new flock mates. The grass parrot, also from Australia, may do well with cockatiels as they are commonly housed with budgies, too. When housing birds of different species together, provide enough room for each bird to have its own space.

    Size and Temperament

    • Avoid housing cockatiels with larger birds, or even those much smaller, to promote peaceful co-existence in the event of a flock disagreement. Slight and docile cockatiels are at risk of serious injury if housed with different species even under calm conditions. Lovebirds, as small as they are, can deliver a nasty bite to a unsuspecting cockatiel during a disagreement, says the Australian National Cockatiel Society.

    Considerations

    • When introducing birds of any species, begin with two separate cages and slowly allow the new bird to become comfortable with the flock. Also, to prevent failure to thrive, give as much attention to your cockatiel as you did before getting your new bird. Once both birds can get along outside their respective cages and both are used to your daily routine of feeding and cage cleaning, you can test their compatibility in the same cage.

    Warnings

    • If you see signs of aggression, remove the new bird and place it back into its own cage. Never introduce birds when one or both are in breeding season. Males and females of any species can be territorial over a nest. If birds are injured, separate them immediately and contact your local avian veterinarian.