Cockatiel Care & Information Sheet

Cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus) are charming, affectionate, and intelligent parrots that make excellent pets. Native to Australia, they are known for their distinctive crest, expressive faces, and melodic whistles.

📏 Basic Info

• Lifespan: 15–25 years with proper care

• Size: ~12–14 inches (including tail)

• Weight: ~70–120 grams

• Origin: Australia

• Colouration: Varys in store 

🏡 Housing

• Cage Size: Minimum 20”L x 20”W x 24”H for one bird, larger is better

• Bar Spacing: ½” to ⅝”

• Perches: Provide a variety of sizes and textures (natural wood perches recommended)

• Toys: Rotate regularly; include chew toys, foraging toys, and mirrors (sparingly)

• Placement: Keep the cage in a quiet but social area, away from drafts, fumes, and direct sunlight

🥗 Diet

A balanced diet includes:

• Pellets: ~60–70% of diet

• Seeds: ~10–20% (as a treat, not the main food source)

• Fresh Veggies: Dark leafy greens, carrots, broccoli, bell peppers, etc.

• Fruits: Apple, banana, mango (in moderation)

• Avoid: Avocado, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, salty/fatty foods

🧼 Always provide fresh, clean water daily.

💬 Social Needs

• Cockatiels are highly social and bond closely with their humans.

• They enjoy being handled and can be taught tricks and to whistle tunes.

• Daily interaction outside the cage is crucial—aim for at least 1–2 hours per day of out-of-cage time and interaction.

🧠 Enrichment

• Cockatiels are intelligent and curious—keep them mentally stimulated!

• Provide puzzle toys, safe chew items, and opportunities to explore.

• Encourage natural behaviors like foraging and climbing.

🧹 Cleaning & Maintenance

• Clean food/water dishes daily

• Spot clean cage daily

• Full cage cleaning weekly

• Rotate perches and toys to maintain hygiene and interest

🧑⚕️ Health & Grooming

• Vet Visits: Annual avian vet checkups recommended

• Beak, nails, feathers: Monitor for overgrowth or damage

• Molting: Happens 1–2 times a year; ensure good nutrition

• Bathing: Offer misting or shallow dish baths 2–3 times per week

🔍 Signs of Illness (seek vet care if you notice):

• Fluffed-up feathers

• Lethargy

• Not eating/drinking

• Discolored droppings

• Changes in vocalization or behavior

🐣 Fun Facts

• Cockatiels can mimic sounds and learn to whistle songs!

• Their crest shows their mood (up = alert, flattened = angry/frightened).

• Males are typically more vocal and prone to mimicry.