Instructions
Examine color patterns on the bird. Cockatiels are gray with lighter colors underneath their feathers. Their wings have one strip of white while their face has a patch of orange. Females have yellowish spot under their wings while males do not.
Measure the size of the bird. Cockatiels are small, growing up to 13 inches long. The majority of this length is from its long tail feathers.
Analyze the appearance of the bird. Cockatiels have a crest on top of their heads that stands erect when they are upset or excited. It stands tilted when they are relaxed. Both male and female cockatiels have the crest. Feathers on the face of a cockatiel come down on both sides of its beak.
Weigh the bird. Cockatiels are lightweight and should weigh no more than 4.4 ounces. If you have a cockatiel for a pet, its weight should not fluctuate much. If it ever weighs more than 4.4 ounces then it is overweight and needs to see the veterinarian for a recommended diet. If it weighs less than 2.8 ounces then the cockatiel needs to gain a little weight and may need to eat more.
Watch the bird's habits. Cockatiels like to mimic sounds. They may try words, but it is mostly sounds such as a ringing telephone, doorbells or laughter.
How to Identify a Cockatiel
Cockatiels have a calm temperament and are curious. They are popular birds to have as pets, and make great companions. They can live up to 20 years in captivity. Cockatiels are small, lightweight animals that need their exercise, coming out of their cage throughout the day to walk, explore and stretch their wings. Identifying cockatiels will require you to analyze their appearance, size and habits.