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Keeping Cockatiels
Cockatiels are a popular pet in many homes, and do very well in captivity. Although part of the parrot species, cockatiels are smaller, not as long-lived, and generally less demanding then their larger relatives.
The first thing a prospective cockatiel owner needs to do, is equip themselves with the necessary supplies before bringing their bird home. You will need a cage suitable to the number of birds you intend to keep. The cage should be large enough for the birds to stretch their wings and climb. The cage should include a pull out on the bottom for ease of cleaning, and should also have a sturdy perch of unfinished wood. You should have at least one perch per bird in the cage. Cockatiels are playful birds, and adding toys such as bells, unfinished blocks, and other bird toys available at your pet store, are important to include. Mini ladders are a favorite toy of cockatiels.
You should line the birdcage with black and white newsprint, and be prepared to clean the bottom of the cage at least once a week. More often, if there are multiple birds in one cage. You should also purchase a mite repellant that can be hung from the cage to discourage their presence. Clip on seed dishes and water dishes should be purchased ahead of time as well.
You will need to give careful thought to where you will place the cage. It needs to be in an area where the cage will not be bumped, or otherwise disturbed. Obviously, not in a high traffic area. Indoor birds also have less insulation then their outdoor neighbors, and drafts can negatively affect their health. This being the case, do not place the cages next to a window for a permanent location, even IF you think it would be nice for the bird to look outside. Keeping a light cotton cover on the cage overnight is fine too, just make certain not to leave the cage covered during the active part of the day. Your bird or birds will want to be a part of the household activity, even if from their own private vantage point.
Feeding your cockatiel is an easy task. You can purchase feed mixes and pellets specifically formulated for cockatiels at your local pet store. You can supplement your birds diet with unsalted sunflower seeds in the shell, and even FRESH bits of lettuce, carrot tops, peas or celery. Cuttlebone is also a product your birds will need, and mineral blocks. Both can be suspended from the cage close to the perch so they can nibble while sitting. The cuttlebone provides much needed calcium, especially if you have a mating pair. Cockatiels need grit to help break down certain seeds, and aid in digestion. Some premixed foods come with the grit inside, so you will need to check the package. Do NOT give your bird any fruit seeds or chocolate.
Now to choosing a bird-- Pet stores usually carry a variety gray colored and patterned cockatiels. The most popular is the lutino, which has no gray pigment, and appears almost all pale yellow, except for the crest, which is a brighter yellow. There are pied’s and harlequins, and the standard gray with yellow or white heads. You can also purchase your bird from a private breeder, but it’s a good idea to have some knowledge of the breeder before hand, or go to the breeder’s residence to pick up your bird, where you can see the facilities and judge the care given to the birds. Choose a bird that is alert, curious and friendly. Make certain the bird’s feathers are clean, and that he appears healthy and strong. Hand fed or tame cockatiels are more expensive than ones who have not been handled. Tame ones can be as expensive as $100.00 each, but most are between the ranges of $45.00 and $85.00 dollars. Birds that have not been tamed will often be sold between $15 and $35.00 dollars. If you choose to buy a very young bird, and tame it yourself, you will need more detailed information on caring for and hand taming cockatiel chicks.
Like its larger relatives, cockatiels DO need daily attention, but usually not nearly as much as say a parrot or cockatoo. Be certain to chat with, handle, or engage your bird at least ten to twenty minutes a day. Cockatiels also are very “talkative” and should not be punished for doing what comes natural. Not every cockatiel will learn to talk or imitate sounds or voices, so it shouldn’t be the reason someone chooses the cockatiel as a pet! The best way most owners have found to encourage this trait is to simply repeat simple words, such as “hello” or “goodbye” over and over, and be patient! Some will pick it up quickly, while others will never show an interest in sounding off. Rewarding the bird after it says the desired word hasn’t been proven to encourage the behavior, but it can’t hurt.
Cockatiels will also need their wings clipped on a regular basis, but a professional should do it in most cases. Wing-clipping prevents your pet from flying free should it make an escape.
Before breading your cockatiels, it is advisable to do some in-depth reading on breeding and raising the chicks after hatching. And if you do decide to breed, make certain there is either a market in which to distribute your grown offspring, or be prepared to keep them yourselves for the entirety of their lives, which can be up to 12 years.
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