How to Feed Newly Hatched Cockatiels

A newly hatched cockatiel is a vulnerable creature that needs to be handled carefully, especially during feeding time. Hand-feeding a baby cockatiel is an absolute necessity because it grows rapidly and needs an adequate source of food to survive. Although you will be feeding your baby cockatiel by hand, you won't literally be dropping food into its mouth with your fingers; use an eyedropper or a syringe.

Things You'll Need

  • Eyedropper or syringe
  • Baby cockatiel formula
  • Towel
  • Small pot
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the baby cockatiel from its nest box and gently place it on a towel that has been laid flat on a table. Prepare the formula as the cockatiel rests on the towel. Keep an eye on the cockatiel and make sure it doesn't fall off the table.

    • 2

      Follow the instructions on the box for the brand of formula you are feeding the cockatiel. Each brand has slightly different preparation instructions, but most formulas are prepared by filling a small pot with the recommended amount of water, then heating it until it is between 105 and 110 degrees Fahrenheit. Mix the recommended amount of formula powder with the warm water.

    • 3

      Fill an eyedropper or syringe with formula.

    • 4

      Cup one of your hands and gently pick up the baby cockatiel. Hold the cockatiel, stabilizing it in the cup of your hand.

    • 5

      Hold the feeding device in your free hand and position it in front of the cockatiel's beak. The cockatiel will be hungry, so it should eagerly open its beak in anticipation of being fed. If it doesn't, slowly and gently touch the tip of the feeding device to the tip of its beak and wait for it to open.

    • 6

      Insert the feeding device into the cockatiel's mouth. Aim the opening of the feeding device toward the right side of the mouth.

    • 7

      Touch the crop with the index finger and thumb on the hand in which the cockatiel is being held. The crop is the lower portion of the neck that stores food.

    • 8

      Squeeze the feeding device slowly and drip food into the cockatiel's mouth. As you squeeze food into its mouth, it will swallow and store the food in its crop. The crop will swell, which you will feel with your index finger and thumb.

    • 9

      Feed the cockatiel formula until its crop feels full. The crop should slightly bulge, but not be overfilled. Feel the cockatiel's crop before each feeding session. Normally, the crop will empty in about four hours, but it is necessary to check before each feeding session so you do not over or under feed the cockatiel; over or under feeding a cockatiel can kill it.