Do Cockatiels Need Friends?

While some animals have rather independent natures, others thrive on nearly constant interaction and companionship. Cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus) are decidedly of the latter category. These pet parrots are definitely not loners in any sense of the word. Friendship, whether from you or courtesy of another cockatiel, is a must.

  1. Background Information

    • These smallish pet parrots come from Australia, where large populations of them exist -- generally gravitating to inland environments. Cockatiels in nature lead extremely gregarious lifestyles. Not only are they often found within tightly knit duos, they often travel and eat in vast groups, some of which consist of a few thousand individuals. As far as breeding goes, cockatiels, like the majority of other bird species, partake in monogamy.

    Cockatiels and Friends

    • Captive cockatiels are social creatures, just like their wild counterparts. Since pet cockatiels enjoy attention and interaction so much, they're vulnerable to loneliness, sadness and frustration when they go without company. Because of this, keeping two cockatiels is optimal, notes SPCA International. If a cockatiel lacks a constant friendly presence, he may become much too reliant on his relationship with you. If you have a hectic and busy lifestyle and often spend time away from home, this may be problematic.

    Caution

    • Although cockatiels usually flourish when living with others, care and caution are both necessary in making introductions. Parrots can be as territorial as any other animal, so it's vital not to abruptly bring a new cockatiel into the living environment of another. Turf-oriented aggression is almost inevitable in these situations. As you monitor the newbie and make sure he's healthy for a month or so, keep him in your other bird's room, but in a different cage. Every few days or so, slowly but surely inch the cages closer, giving the twosome time to get acquainted with each other. Finally, allow them both outside of their cages simultaneously, but with close supervision. If they behave harmoniously after doing this over the course of several weeks, try placing them together in a roomy and comfortable cage.

    Connecting With Your Cockatiel

    • It is also important for you, as an owner, to establish a close and affectionate rapport with your cockatiel. Whether you stroke your birdie's head, speak or whistle with him, putting in the time is imperative. Cockatiels aren't usually as chatty as some other pet birds, but often can copy some words and short sentences. Females generally are not as talkative as the males.