How to Keep a Cockatiel Quiet

While all cockatiels make noise, there is a difference between normal squawking and the cockatiel's making noise because it is distressed. Cocktiels may scream when they are ill, when they are overexcited or angry, or when they have lost a cage mate. Quieting a cockatiel requires understanding why the bird is screaming and taking appropriate action.

Things You'll Need

  • Large towel or blanket
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Instructions

    • 1

      Identify any changes. Cocktatiels are routine-oriented birds, and a change in their schedule or in their environment can cause them to scream. Depending on what the change is, going back to the way things were can halt the screaming.

    • 2

      Take your cockatiel to the veterinarian. Because cockatiels signal their distress or discomfort through noise, there may be a medical issue that needs attention.

    • 3

      Lower the energy level. Cockatiels are social birds, and if they are constantly in the path of traffic, they can become overstimulated. Move the cockatiel's cage away from frequently used doors and place it against the wall. You may also drape a blanket across the back half of the cage to give the bird some privacy and a sense of security.

    • 4

      Drape a large towel or blanket over the cage when it is time for your cockatiel to sleep. According to Cockatiel Cottage, a site on cockatiel care, cockatiels need between 10 and 12 hours of sleep every night. If your cockatiel is not getting enough sleep, it can contribute to irritability and noisiness.

    • 5

      Call back. Some of a cocktiel's natural noisiness comes from location calling, where the bird attempts to locate its flock through vocalizations. Decide on a word or a whistle that you will use to respond to the bird. Eventually, the bird will associate the whistle or word with security and reassurance.