Kinds Of Cockatiels

Among species that people often keep as pets is the cockatiel, a small type of cockatoo native to Australia. The cockatiel is 12 inches long, can live up to 25 years and is very social. They like having people around, or another cockatiel companion.

  1. Types

    • There is only one type or species of cockatiel. The bird was discovered in Australia and its species name is Nymphicus hollandicus. They became common as pets in the early 20th century, during the Australian Gold Rush. They are still seen in the wild.

    Colors

    • The most common color of the cockatiel is gray, which is the natural color they are in the wild. But over time, breeders have bred them to get many different color variations. Cockatiels have about a dozen color variations, including lutino--pure yellow, blue lutino (pale blue), pearl (speckles on the feathers), pied (grey streaks on wings), emerald (pale green), silver (silver coloring), fallow (very pale, light brown), albino (pure white with red eyes), white face (any color but with a white face), cinnamon (paler brown), paste (pale green with yellow pigment) and olive (olive color).

    Gender Differences

    • The gender of cockatiels can be identified once they have reach adulthood, which is normally after the first molt at six months. Males have a brighter color on their faces, and females have a duller color. The body feathers are similar --- the males are brighter than the females. Also, the males whistle and are louder than the females.

    Training

    • Any type of cockatiel can be trained, but you must be patient. A bird can take longer to train than a dog, so do not give up after only a few sessions. Cockatiels that are hand-raised can often be trained faster and easier. Spend time with the bird every day in a quiet place near its cage, so it is not frightened or anxious. Start slowly and give rewards when the bird gets the trick right.