All About Cockatiels

Did you know that cockatiels are the second most popular bird pet after the parakeet? Cockatiels are cute, intelligent and social birds. They're known for their bright orange cheeks and long feathers. Above their head is a "crest," which is a unique indicator of the species. Their lifespan is 15-20 years....longer if they're happy!

Be sure that your cockatiel is fed a well balanced diet. The best diet for your cockatiel consists of:

• Pellets that are made for cockatiels. This should make up 60-70% of their diet.
• Clean, fresh water. Water should be changed every day. Sometimes water should be changed several times a day during hotter months.

Do NOT feed cockatiels these food items:

• Avocado
• Fruit Seeds
• Chocolate
• Caffeine
• Alcohol

Also avoid sugar containing foods and high fat foods.

Always remember that fresh water should be available to your cockatiel. This should be checked throughout the day.

If feeding your cockatiel fruits and vegetables, any that is not eaten in a few hours should be discarded to prevent it from getting old.

• They're known to mimic repetitive sounds and noises
• They bond easily with their human companions and pet parents
• Cockatiels tend to make a grinding or gritting noise with their beaks. This indicates that they're comfortable with you (content), and can also mean that they're getting ready to fall asleep.

• Cockatiels do very well in household settings. Be sure, though, that the temperature of the home does not exceed 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Cages or habitats should be placed off of the floor in an area with proper ventilation and that is well lit.
• An ideal home for your cockatiel should be approximately 18" in width, 18" in depth, and 24" high. The metal bars should be spaced no greater than 1/2" apart. These are only guidelines. The larger the habitat, the better.
• Perches in the cage should be at least 5" in length or greater. Those perches should be a variety of different sizes so that the cockatiel's feet can exercise properly. This helps prevent arthritis.
• Be sure there is a metal grating over their droppings. This keeps them away from eating and pecking at it.
• Do not place food or water under perches.
• Other cockatiels PAIRS can be kept together. You may choose just one so that you can bond with your pet. However, never combine other different types of birds with your cockatiel.
• You should socialize DAILY with your pet cockatiel.

• It is important to clean and disinfect their habitat (this includes the perches and the cage) regularly (at least twice a week). You may clean more often if needed.
• Replaces perches, dishes, and toys when they are worn or broken.
• Ensure that there are no parts or toys that contain lead and zinc. This can cause serious medical issues if your cockatiel ingests them.
• Use natural cleaning products. Excess fumes and chemicals are not safe for your bird.

• Your cockatiel may bathe in chlorine-free, lukewarm water. Just remember to remove the water when he/she is finished. As an alternative to this, you may mist the bird with water.
• It is not necessary to clip flight feathers, but if it is done correctly, can help prevent injury and escape when the cockatiel gets out of its cage.
• Nails should also be trimmed to prevent injury to the bird.