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 Name Nymphicus hollandicus
Size/Weight 30-33 cm (12-13 in) | 80-120g
Lifespan 15-25 years
Native Habitat Australian outback
IDENTIFICATION
Male Bright yellow face, orange cheek patches
Female Duller colors, barred tail feathers
Mutations Lutino, Pearl, Pied, Cinnamon
DIET
Base Diet 60% pellets, 30% vegetables, 10% fruits
Favorite Foods Broccoli, carrots, millet spray (treat)
Avoid Avocado, chocolate, caffeine
HOUSING
Cage Size Minimum 24″W × 24″D × 30″H
Essential Features Horizontal bars, multiple perches, toys
Toys Bells, mirrors, shreddable wood
BEHAVIOR
Vocalization Whistles, chirps (males more vocal)
Social Needs 2+ hours daily interaction
Crest Signals Raised = alert, Flat = defensive
Cockatiel care guide and products

🐦 Cockatiel Care Guide

Essential care tips for your feathered friend

COCKATIEL QUICK FACTS
Scientific Name Nymphicus hollandicus
Size 30-33 cm (12-13 in) including tail
Weight 80-120g
Lifespan 15-25 years
Color Varieties Grey, 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.