Fun Things to Do With Cockatiels

It's no surprise why cockatiels are popular pets. They're easygoing and playful and are not as prone to behavior problems as some other pet bird species. But cockatiels still need a bit of fun -- with you, besides your basic bonding training -- to stay happy and healthy.

  1. A Game of Chase

    • Cockatiels love to untie knots and they love to play chase. You can start a spirited game of chase by simply tying a knot in a small towel or washcloth and tying it to a string or piece of rope. Drag it around across the floor or the bed and your cockatiel should chase. Let him catch the knot and drag it away. Your bird will play with the cloth just like a kitten.

    Have a Chat

    • Not all cockatiels talk, and females are less likely to talk or sing than males. Chatty cockatiels, however, always seem to enjoy a good conversation. You can teach your cockatiel to mimic by repeating sounds or words you want him to say. You can also teach him to whistle tunes. It's best to remove toys and food from his cage while teaching so that he's not distracted and doesn't associate certain sounds with food or play.

    Dancing

    • Cockatiels have rhythm and love music. That means you can fairly easily teach your cockatiel how to dance. Place him on your finger -- after training him to do so, of course -- and sing or hum a tune to him while gently rocking your hand to the beat. You could follow the same steps with a song from a media player. Some birds have been known to prefer certain styles of music or even certain composers.

    Hide and Seek

    • Set your bird on the floor of a room or floor of the house he's never seen. Walk away, around the corner and call out, "Find me." Peek around the wall or stick your head up over the bed, then duck away. Keep moving and hiding and calling him to find you. If he has bonded with you, he will chase you. Be sure to praise him for finding you.