Cockatiel
Lifespan: Approximately 20 + Years
Size: Up to 12" (30 cm) long
Experiance Level: Intermediate
General Information
Alright we start from small parrots to big. Now i provide some information about Cockatiel, Cockatiel are very sweet,intelligent,fun and easy to care.They are great whistlers and males learn how to talk.Cockatiel required alot of attention,If you work all day,consider purchesing a pair of Cockatiel, as they will be able to keep each other company.Talking and whistling to your Cockatiel will provide the interaction and socialization they require.New surroundings can be stressful to your Cockatiel. Allow 3-4 days for him to get adjust to his surroundings. They are not very noisy, so they are a good choice if you live in an apartment.These birds come in a variety of colors and mutations, so there are a lot to choose from. Many become well bonded with their owners--I've known some that would follow you around like a puppy. What a loyal companion.
Nutrition
- Cockatiel are harbivores and should be fed a fortified pellet - seed blend.
- As seeds are high in fats and do not contains all of he nutrients required to keep your bird healthy, they make up no more then 30% of your bird's diet.
- Fresh fruits and vegetables should be offered daily and any uneaten food should be remove before it spoils. Acceptable choices are dark leafy green, zucchini, carrot, peaches, bananas, apples and grapes.
- Treats such as spray millet and packaged treats can be offered sparingly.
- Freash water should be available at all times and food and water dishes should be cleans daily.
Moulting
- Moulting is a natural process when birds lose and replace their feathers.
- A nutrition diet is needed to promote the re-growth of lost feathers.
- Protect your Cockatiel from temperature fluctuations, drafts and frightening experiences while moulting. Health issues to watch for.
- Change in the consistency, frequency or colour dropping.
- Ruffled feathers for prolonged periods.
- Decreased appetite and weight loss.
- Sitting on bottom of cage for prolonged periods.
- Laboured breathing, sneezing, coughing and crusty beak or eyes.
- If you notice any of the symptoms above, seek veterinary care.
Signs of a Healthy Animal
- Active, alert, and sociable
- Eats and drinks throughout the day
- Dry nostrils and bright, dry eyes
- Beak, legs, and feet appear normal
- Clean, dry vent
- Smooth, well-groomed feathers
Red Flags
- Beak swelling or accumulations
- Fluffed, plucked, or soiled feathers especially around the vent
- Constant sitting on floor of cage
- Wheezing or coughing
- Runny or discolored stools
- Favoring one foot when not asleep; it is normal for birds to sleep on one foot
- Eye or nasal discharge
- Red or swollen eyes
- Loss of appetite
