Cockatiels vs. Parakeets as Children's Pets

Cockatiels and parakeets are two popular choices for pet birds in the United States. Each species has its own benefits and drawbacks for children. Choosing the right bird can make your child a lifelong bird lover, but a bad choice can quickly turn into negative situation. It is essential that you take time in choosing the right type of bird with the right personality for your child.

  1. Life-Span

    • Before you purchase a cockatiel or a parakeet, you need to realize how long both these types of birds can live. The average life-span of a parakeet is 10 to 15 years. Cockatiels can live for between 15 and 25 years. And of course, both birds require care their entire lives. Children grow up, go to college and move away from home. Do not purchase a bird for your child if you do not personally feel you can be responsible for the bird's care until it passes away.

    Noise and Space

    • Parakeets are less noisy than cockatiels and generally require less space because they are smaller. Parakeets are also easier to injure for the same reason, and may be injured when handled inappropriately by a child. Cockatiels are larger, take up more space and generally make more noise than parakeets.

    Socialization

    • Both cockatiels and parakeets are considered social birds. Cockatiels tend to be a bit friendlier and more willing to socialize than parakeets. However, it may be easier and less expensive to locate a hand-raised parakeet then it will be to find a similarly tame cockatiel. Cockatiels can be intimidated by a lot of noise and get frightened fairly easily. Cockatiels are not recommended as pets for young children who lack patience or the ability to deal with frustration.

    Care

    • Cockatiels and parakeets both require daily feeding, watering and regular cage cleaning. In addition, cockatiels may require mist baths to keep their skin and feathers from drying out or becoming dusty. Both types of bird require a significant commitment from your child and will suffer if the child does not spend sufficient time caring for and socializing with the bird.