About Cockatiel Birds

Cockatiels are favorites among birders because they are social, intelligent and docile. They also have vibrant personalities and often thrive in environments in which they are constantly learning and stimulated. Next to the parakeet, they are one of the most popular pet birds in the world, according to Parrot Feather. They are hearty, adaptable and lifetime companions who can live up to 15 years.

  1. Identification

    • Cockatiels are medium-size birds with a primarily gray plumage. Male cockatiels haver yellow heads and bright orange circles on their cheeks. Females are not nearly as colorful as their male counterparts.

    Diet

    • Cockatiels need a balanced diet that includes a trusted brand of seed. However, they also need a little variety. Carrots, broccoli, corn, seeds, apples, bananas, berries, oranges, pears, cucumbers and many leafy green vegetables are human foods your cockatiel will enjoy, according to Parrot Feather.

    Behavior

    • Cockatiels are social birds and enjoy being stimulated. They tend to get bored easily, so it's important to keep them entertained with something new or different. They can learn to talk with a little training. Birds of all kinds love to chew and cockatiels are no different. They enjoy chewing pieces of untreated wood and leather. They like playing with bells, ladders and mirrors. Rotate toys to keep your cockatiel from becoming bored.

    Habitat

    • Pet cockatiels need plenty of room when they are in a cage. Large cages are best for them since they like to flap their wings and climb around. They need room to move about after food dishes and toys are placed in the cage, according to the National Cockatiel Society. Perches should be at least 3/4 of an inch wide. Square cages are preferred over round in that birds often seek the safety a corner. Your bird will also need a bath dish. You can purchase one that attaches to the front of the cage via the door or you can place one in the bottom of the cage.

    Facts

    • Cockatiels are widespread in Australia with their native environment being the wetlands and scrublands. They are nomadic in the wild and travel in flocks searching for areas with plenty of food and water. This environment makes them good candidates as pets because they can easily adapt to other habitats.