Cockatiel

The Cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus) is a small, charismatic parrot native to Australia, known for its distinctive crest and cheerful personality. These 12-13 inch birds weigh 80-120g and live 15-25 years with proper care. Cockatiels are excellent companions, capable of whistling tunes and mimicking sounds, though they rarely develop clear speech. They thrive on social interaction and require mental stimulation to prevent boredom. Their diet should consist primarily of pellets supplemented with fresh veggies and limited seeds.

ESSENTIAL FACTS
Scientific NameNymphicus hollandicus
Size/Weight30-33 cm (12-13 in) | 80-120g
Lifespan15-25 years
Native HabitatAustralian outback
IDENTIFICATION
MaleBright yellow face, orange cheek patches
FemaleDuller colors, barred tail feathers
MutationsLutino, Pearl, Pied, Cinnamon
DIET
Base Diet60% pellets, 30% vegetables, 10% fruits
Favorite FoodsBroccoli, carrots, millet spray (treat)
AvoidAvocado, chocolate, caffeine
HOUSING
Cage SizeMinimum 24″W × 24″D × 30″H
Essential FeaturesHorizontal bars, multiple perches, toys
ToysBells, mirrors, shreddable wood
BEHAVIOR
VocalizationWhistles, chirps (males more vocal)
Social Needs2+ hours daily interaction
Crest SignalsRaised = alert, Flat = defensive
Cockatiel care guide and products

🐦 Cockatiel Care Guide

Essential care tips for your feathered friend

COCKATIEL QUICK FACTS
Scientific NameNymphicus hollandicus
Size30-33 cm (12-13 in) including tail
Weight80-120g
Lifespan15-25 years
Color VarietiesGrey, Lutino, Pearl, Pied, Cinnamon

🌞 Daily Care Routine

  • Fresh Food: 1.5 tbsp pellets + 1 tbsp chopped veggies
  • Water Change: Replace twice daily (they love to dunk food)
  • Out-of-Cage Time: Minimum 2 hours supervised play
  • Social Interaction: 30+ minutes of talking/training

🍎 Ideal Diet

  • 60% Pellets: Harrison’s or Zupreem
  • 30% Vegetables: Carrots, broccoli, leafy greens
  • 10% Fruits/Treats: Apple, berries, millet spray
  • Always Available: Cuttlebone for calcium

🏠 Housing Requirements

  • Cage Size: Minimum 24″W × 24″D × 30″H
  • Bar Spacing: 1/2″ to 5/8″
  • Perches: 3+ of varying diameters (0.5-1.5″)
  • Toys: 4-5 rotated weekly (mirrors, bells, shreddables)

💡 Behavior Tips

  • Whistling: Males whistle more than females
  • Head Crest: Raised = curious/alarmed; Flat = angry/scared
  • Bonding: Respond well to gentle head scratches
  • Night Frights: Use night light to prevent panic

❤️ Health Monitoring

  • Weekly Checks:
    • Clear nostrils/eyes
    • Smooth beak/nails
    • Consistent droppings
  • Common Issues:
    • Respiratory infections
    • Egg binding (females)
    • Nutritional deficiencies

💎 Pro Tip: Cockatiels love baths! Offer a shallow water dish or mist spray 2-3 times weekly.