COCKATIEL
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SCIENTIFIC NAME: Nymphicus hollandicus
ORIGIN: Australia
FOOD: Seeds, berries, nuts
LIFE SPAN: 15 years
SIZE: 11 inches
HOUSING:
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Birds acclimate well to average household temperatures; be cautious of extreme temperature change; cage should be placed off the floor in an area that is well-lit and away from drafts
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A cage approximately 24" W x 14" D x 24" H, with metal bars spaced no greater than ½" apart, makes a good home for your cockatiel; as with all animals, it is best to provide the largest habitat possible; a flight cage is strongly recommended
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Perches should be at least 5" long and ½" in diameter; a variety of perch sizes to exercise feet and help prevent arthritis is recommended
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A metal grate over the droppings tray will keep the bird away from droppings; line the droppings tray with cage paper or appropriate substrate for easier cleaning; to avoid contamination, do not place food or water containers under perches
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Bird owners should avoid non-stick cookware and appliances as they can release fumes hazardous to your birds health
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DIET:
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Specialized pelleted diets are highly recommended and should consist of 60–70% of the diet; use fortified seeds in moderation as they are higher in fat and less nutritious than pellets
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Fresh fruit and vegetables such as strawberries, apricots (no pits), bananas, dark green leafy vegetables (like spinach or kale), peas, carrot tops, celery, and corn
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Clean, fresh, filtered and chlorine-free water changed daily
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Do not feed birds fruit seeds, avocados, chocolate, alcohol, or caffeine; these can cause serious medical problems
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FEEDING:
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if your bird is used to a seed diet, convert to pellets gradually; fresh pellets or seeds and fresh, clean, chlorine-free water should always be available
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Fresh fruits and vegetables should be given daily and discarded when not eaten within 24 hours; cockatiels appreciate quality and variety in their food
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RECOMMENDED SUPPLIES:
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Cage and cage cover
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Grooming spray
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Vitamin supplements
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Cage paper or substrate
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Bird bath
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Variety of perches and toys
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Pellets and fortified seed
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Play gym and treats
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Cuttlebone and millet spray
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Food and water dishes
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Book about cockatiels
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NORMAL BEHAVIOR & INTERACTION:
HABITAT MAINTENANCE:
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Clean and disinfect the cage and perches regularly; replace substrate or cage liner weekly or more often if needed; replace food and water daily
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Replace perches, dishes, and toys when worn or damaged; rotate new toys into the habitat regularly
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Ensure that there are no cage parts or toys with lead, zinc or lead and lead-based paints or galvanized parts as these can cause serious medical issues if ingested by your bird
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GROOMING & HYGIENE:
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Provide filtered, chlorine-free, lukewarm water regularly for bathing, and remove the water when done; as an alternative, mist the bird with water or a grooming spray
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Clipping flight feathers is not necessary, but when done correctly it can help prevent injury or escape; consult an avian veterinarian on what is best for your bird
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Nails should be trimmed by a qualified person to prevent injury to the bird
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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 normal in appearance • Clean, dry vent • Smooth, well-groomed feathers
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COMMON HEALTH ISSUES:
Health Issue Symptoms or Causes Suggested Action
Chlamydiosis: Appetite loss, fluffed feathers, nasal discharge.
Seek immediate veterinary attention.
Conjunctivitis: Red eyes; tearing; closed, puffy eyes.
Wash eyes with warm water; seek treatment from veterinarian.
Diarrhea: Fecal portion of stool not formed. Multiple causes, from change in diet to internal parasites.
Seek veterinary attention. Ensure correct diet. Reduce fruit intake.
Feather Plucking: Bird plucks own feathers
Relieve boredom with attention, new toys, or space;
improve diet; seek veterinary advice
Pox: Lesions in mouth, scabs on eyes and face
Isolate bird; seek veterinary attention.
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RED FLAGS:
• Beak swelling or accumulations • Fluffed, plucked, or soiled feathers • Sitting on floor of habitat • Loss of appetite • Eye or nasal discharge • Red or swollen eyes • Wheezing or coughing • Runny or discolored stools • Favoring one foot
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REFERENCES & LINKS:
