Cockatiel

Cockatiels are easy birds to care for, making them a desirable pet. Their endless affection facilitates their natural ability to bond with their pet parents. Playpens are a great way to allow them to interact with you outside of their habitat!

• Cockatiels are terrific companions with lots of personality
• Extremely social, and thrive on interaction

Cockatiels are small parrots, or psittacines, which include birds with curved beaks, clawed feet, and an upright sitting stature. They measure approximately 11 to 13 inches from head to tail tip and weigh up to 4.5 ounces as adults. When they stretch their wings, the span can measure 12 to 14 inches. Cockatiels tend to reach their adult size around 8 to 12 weeks of age. Cockatiels are natural explorers. If they're not flying, they'll often climb around their aviary or perch, trying to get a better view of everything. Keep plenty of toys and safe climbing spots available for them to explore. 

Like many parrots, cockatiels do best when fed a varied diet and fresh water daily.

Cockatiels should always have access to healthy fresh foods like veggies, greens, grains, and fruits. Pellet bird food, seeds, and nuts can be part of their healthy diet. They do like cuttlebone and millet  (unflavored). But they can't be on an all-seed diet.

You can form a loving connection with your cockatiel. Start by spending time near his habitat and talking, singing, whistling, or reading to him. Sangar said doing this consistently builds trust. You may also want to hand treats, such as a millet spray, through the bars to win extra awesome pet parent points.

When you initially bring your pet home, he may become suspicious and try to bite. Avoid sudden movements and let the bird familiarize himself with his new home.