Cockatiel Care Guide: Housing, Diet, Behavior and Health

Cockatiels are gentle, affectionate members of the cockatoo family, famous for their expressive crests and cheerful whistles. They often bond closely with their people and enjoy head scratches, shoulder rides and whistling duets. With proper care, a cockatiel can live 15 to 20 years or more, so it is a long-term companion. This guide covers everything a new owner should know.

Cage setup

For one cockatiel, choose a cage at least about 24 inches wide, 24 inches deep and 30 inches tall, and larger if possible. Bar spacing of around 1/2 to 3/4 inch is appropriate. Their long tails need room, so avoid cages that are tall but narrow.

• Several natural wood perches of different diameters
• A flat platform perch for resting
• Foraging toys, shreddable toys and bells
• Separate dishes for pellets, fresh food and water
• A cuttlebone or mineral block, if recommended by your vet

Place the cage against at least one wall in a room where your family spends time. Cockatiels feel safer when they are not exposed on all sides.

Diet: more than seeds

Like budgies, cockatiels often get fatty liver disease and other nutritional problems on seed-only diets. A healthier diet usually includes:

• Pellets: sized for cockatiels, often making up a large part of the diet as advised by an avian vet.
• Vegetables: dark leafy greens, carrot, bell pepper, broccoli, sweet potato (cooked) and squash.
• Some seeds: great for training rewards and foraging.
• Fruit: small amounts of apple (no seeds), berries or melon.

Never feed avocado, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol or salty and sugary human snacks. See our full list of safe and toxic foods for pet birds.

Understanding cockatiel body language

Night frights

Cockatiels are known for sudden panics at night, called night frights, often triggered by noises, shadows or car headlights. The bird may thrash around the cage and injure itself. To reduce the risk:

• Use a small night light near the cage.
• Partially cover the cage rather than fully covering it.
• Keep the cage away from windows with moving shadows.
• If a fright happens, turn on a light and talk softly until your bird calms down.

Daily interaction and training

Cockatiels are social and need several hours of interaction each day, including time out of the cage in a bird-safe room. They respond well to positive reinforcement training. Teach "step up" first, then try target training or recall. Our bird taming guide covers the basics.

Males are usually better whistlers and talkers, while females are often quieter. Both can be very affectionate.

Powder down and cleaning

Cockatiels produce a fine powder that keeps feathers healthy. This dust can build up in your home and may bother people with allergies or asthma. Regular baths or misting, frequent cleaning and an air purifier can help.

Health and vet care

Schedule a checkup with an avian veterinarian after adoption and then yearly. Watch for warning signs including fluffed-up feathers for long periods, tail bobbing, changes in droppings, discharge from the nostrils, reduced appetite or sitting on the cage floor. Female cockatiels can lay eggs without a male, and chronic egg laying can cause health problems. Ask your vet for advice if your bird lays frequently.

Frequently asked questions

Can cockatiels talk?

Some learn a few words, especially males, but cockatiels are better known for whistling than talking.

Are cockatiels loud?

They are louder than budgies, especially when calling for their people, but quieter than most larger parrots.

Can cockatiels live with budgies?

Sometimes, with supervision and a large enough space, but cockatiels can be bullied by assertive budgies. Many owners house them separately and let them share out-of-cage time.