Cockatiels are very popular pet birds that are known for their intelligence, playfulness, and ability to mimic speech. Buying a healthy, tame cockatiel can be an exciting and rewarding experience. However, there are some important things you need to consider before bringing one of these birds home.
What Are Cockatiels?
Cockatiels are small parrots native to Australia. They are one of the smallest members of the cockatoo family. In the wild, they live in large flocks and prefer arid environments like deserts and scrublands. The cockatiel’s scientific name is Nymphicus hollandicus.
There are a few different color variations of cockatiels. The most common is the “normal grey” which has grey feathers with yellow heads and white wing patches. Other color mutations include:
- Lutino – All yellow with orange cheek patches
- Albino – All white with red eyes
- Pied – Splotches of color on a white background
- Cinnamon – Cinnamon brown color
- Pearl – Spots on their wings and tail
In captivity, cockatiels typically live 10-15 years. However, with proper care they can live into their 20s. Cockatiels are highly social and form strong bonds with human owners when hand-raised. They love attention and excel at tricks and speech mimicry.
Advantages of Cockatiels as Pets
There are many reasons cockatiels make great pets:
- Their small size – They are one of the smallest parrot species at around 12 inches long. This makes them easy to accommodate.
- Quieter than larger parrots – They can still be noisy at times but not as loud as a macaw or cockatoo.
- Affectionate and bond strongly – Cockatiels form close attachments to owners and love physical affection.
- Playful and entertaining – They are very active and playful both inside and outside their cage.
- Lower maintenance care – Their care requirements are a bit easier than larger parrot species.
- Inexpensive – Cockatiels are one of the more affordable companion parrots.
Disadvantages of Cockatiels
While cockatiels make fantastic pets, there are a few potential downsides to consider:
- Need large cages – They need plenty of room to move around and climb.
- Social flock animals – They thrive most when you spend lots of time interacting with them.
- Require research – You need to learn proper care, training and taming.
- Can be noisy – Whistles, squawks and contact calls can be loud at times.
- May nip – Usually this is redirected energy, but it can still be painful.
- Messy eaters – Seed hulls and food debris end up all around their cage.
- Can be destructive – They love to chew and shred wood, paper, fabrics if left unsupervised.
Deciding if a Cockatiel is Right for You
Here are some key things to think about before getting a cockatiel:
- Be prepared for a long commitment – cockatiels live 10+ years
- Make sure you have several hours a day to interact with your bird
- Household should be relatively low noise and low stress
- No other pets that may harm your cockatiel like cats, dogs, or snakes
- You have a regular veterinarian for pet birds
- Enough space for a large cage, ideally in a main living area
- Other family members are on board with having a cockatiel
Cockatiels do best in homes where they get frequent interaction and mental stimulation. Without proper attention, they can become bored, depressed, and even destructive.
Choosing Where to Get Your Cockatiel
There are generally three options for obtaining a pet cockatiel:
- Breeder: Reputable cockatiel breeders offer the benefit of meeting the bird’s parents and having their full health/genetic history. A good breeder will hand-raise baby cockatiels to be well socialized. Cost is usually $80-$150.
- Pet store: Big chain pet stores and local specialty bird shops sell cockatiels. The downside is not knowing their background. Cost is similar to breeder prices.
- Bird rescue/shelter: You can adopt an unwanted cockatiel for an adoption fee of around $50-$100. The bird’s history may be unknown.
Buying from a breeder or store has the advantage of getting a young, hand-raised cockatiel. But giving a loving home to a rescue bird can be very rewarding too.
What to Look for in a Healthy Cockatiel
When examining cockatiels for purchase, look for:
- Smooth, well-groomed feathers
- Clear, bright eyes
- Clean nares (nostrils) and beak
- Active, alert behavior
- Full, plump body
- Dry vent area
- No visible wounds, discharge or parasites
Be wary of cockatiels that seem lethargic, fluffed up, or have ragged feathers, watery droppings, or heavy breathing/sneezing. Also avoid aggressive birds that lunge or try to bite.
Choosing Male vs Female Cockatiels
There are a few notable differences between male and female cockatiels:
Male Cockatiels | Female Cockatiels |
---|---|
– More vocal, frequent whistlers | – Typically quieter |
– Learn to talk/mimic better | – Less mimicking ability |
– More cuddly and attached to owners | – More independent personality |
– Brighter face yellow and orange cheek patches | – Duller facial coloring |
There are always exceptions, but in general male cockatiels are known to be better talkers, more velcro-like, and display brighter coloration. Females tend to be a bit more reserved but can still make wonderful pets.
Choosing a Young or Adult Cockatiel
Cockatiels are typically available for sale at the following ages:
- Unweaned babies – require handfeeding formula, extra care
- Weaned babies – 4-12 weeks old, just starting on solid foods
- Juveniles – 3-6 months old, learning independence
- Adults – over 6 months old
Weaned babies to young juveniles are often considered the best age for first-time cockatiel owners. Their personalities are starting to develop, but they still readily bond and can be more easily tamed.
Adult cockatiels make good pets too, especially if they were well-socialized. But it may take more time and patience to tame them if they are untamed.
Cockatiel Housing Requirements
Proper housing is key to keeping a healthy, happy cockatiel. Here are the essentials:
- Cage size – Minimum of 18″ W x 18″ D x 18″ H for one cockatiel. Bigger is always better.
- Bar spacing – Bars should be no more than 3/4″ apart so the bird cannot squeeze out.
- Cage shape – Look for wide, rather than tall, cages to allow for climbing.
- Materials – Stainless steel or powder-coated cages are best. Avoid lead and zinc.
- Location – Place the cage in a well-trafficked room your family spends time in.
Good cage brands include Prevue Hendryx, A&E, Vision, HQ, and You & Me. Track down a size appropriate cage that fits within your budget.
Cage Accessories
Essential cage accessories include:
- Perches – Natural wood of varying widths
- Food and water bowls – Ceramic or stainless steel
- Toys – Wood, bells, ropes, mirrors, etc to prevent boredom
- Grit – Calcium/mineral supplement for healthy beak and bones
- Newspaper or cage liner – Makes cleaning easier
- Cuttlebone – Important beak conditioning and calcium source
Also make sure to provide ample natural light. And a cage cover can help your cockatiel feel secure at night.
Estimating Cockatiel Costs
Here are the estimated upfront and annual costs of owning a cockatiel:
Expense | Estimated Cost |
---|---|
Purchase price for bird | $80 – $150 |
Cage | $100 – $300 |
Toys, perches, bowls | $50 – $100 |
Food, treats, supplements | $100 – $300 per year |
Vet visits | $100 – $200 per year |
Total first year cost | $400 – $1,000 |
The initial purchase price of a cockatiel is fairly low. But expenses like the cage, accessories, vet care and supplies can add up. Budget at least $400-$1000 for everything needed in the first year.
Preparing Your Home for a Cockatiel
Here are some things to do to get your home ready before bringing home your cockatiel:
- Bird proof any rooms your cockatiel will be flying in – Put away dangling strings, wires, small objects they could chew or be injured on. Cover windows and mirrors.
- Provide filtered air – Avoid strong fumes from cleaners, candles, air fresheners, etc.
- Set up the cage in advance – Have the cage fully prepped in the desired spot before your bird arrives.
- Childproof electrical outlets within reach.
- Check for hazards – Make sure ceiling fans, toilet lids, fireplaces, etc are safe.
- Research an avian vet – Line up a qualified vet for wellness exams and any emergencies.
Prevention is key to protecting your cockatiel from household dangers. Bird-proofing thoroughly will help prevent escapes and injuries.
Transporting Your New Cockatiel Home
Follow these tips for safely transporting your new cockatiel home from the breeder or pet store:
- Use a well-ventilated, secure travel carrier or small cage covered with a blanket.
- Attach food and water cups securely to prevent spilling.
- Include familiar toys or perches to reduce stress.
- Keep music/noise level in the car low.
- Protect against extreme temperatures by keeping the car at a comfortable temperature.
- Transport directly to your home without unnecessary stops.
- Limit stress by not trying to handle the bird during the ride.
Traveling can be scary for cockatiels. Take measures to make the ride smooth and non-stressful. Then give your new bird time to settle in once home.
Tips for Selecting a Cockatiel
When visiting a breeder or pet store, use these tips for picking out an individual cockatiel:
- Watch interactions of all birds first before choosing.
- Avoid birds that seem excessively timid, fearful, or aggressive.
- Select an active, alert bird that seems curious about you.
- Look for signs of good health like bright eyes, smooth feathers, and active movements.
- See if a bird will step up or eats a treat from your hand.
- Have the breeder handle a bird to assess temperament.
- Trust your instinct if you feel a connection with a particular bird.
Don’t feel rushed into picking a bird if none seem like a good match yet. Making the right selection is key, so take time observing behavior to find your perfect companion.
Acclimating Your Cockatiel to Its New Home
Help your cockatiel gradually acclimate to its new home:
- Allow at least several days to settle in before trying to handle.
- Keep the cage in a quiet, low-traffic area at first before moving to a busier room.
- Maintain the same diet, food bowls, toys to promote consistency.
- Slowly introduce family members and other pets one at a time.
- Set up a routine for feedings, sleep schedule, and interactions.
- Begin training and bonding after your bird relaxes and starts eating normally.
- Be patient – it can take weeks or months for a bird to fully adjust to new surroundings.
A slow transition is important so your new family member can become comfortable in your home environment. Over time, the cockatiel will form a close bond with you for a rewarding companionship!
Conclusion
Cockatiels can make incredibly fun, affectionate pets for bird lovers. But proper preparation is required before taking the plunge into cockatiel ownership. Make sure you understand their complex care needs and have the time and resources to meet them. Do plenty of research to find a healthy bird from a responsible source. Bird-proof your home thoroughly to prevent accidents. And be patient during the acclimation phase as you build trust with your new feathered friend! With their playful antics and quirky personalities, cockatiels will bring you years of joy and laughter.