What You Should Know Before Adopting a Cockatiel
Thinking about bringing a cockatiel into your life? These charming little parrots are one of the most popular pet birds for good reason — they’re social, playful, and full of personality. But like any pet, they’re not the right fit for everyone.
Here’s what you really need to know (from someone who’s lived with birds!) before you commit.
Cockatiels Need Company — Yours and Maybe Another Bird’s
Cockatiels are incredibly social. They thrive on interaction and genuinely enjoy being part of the household “flock.” If you're away from home for most of the day, think twice — a lonely cockatiel can become depressed or even sick.
If you’re gone a lot but still really want one, consider getting two cockatiels so they can keep each other company. Just be mindful of space — you’ll need a cage big enough for both to stretch and play (at least 30” wide, ideally a “flight cage”).
Playful and Curious — Keep Them Stimulated
These birds love toys, puzzles, and exploring their environment. They’re not content sitting in a cage with the same old stuff. Rotate toys regularly and offer new textures, materials, or foraging challenges to keep their minds active. I’ve made plenty of DIY toys from cardboard rolls and safe wood blocks — just like with toddlers, variety is key!
Great with Kids (With Some Age Guidelines)
Cockatiels can form wonderful bonds with children. That said, I usually recommend waiting until your child is at least 6 years old. Younger kids don’t always understand how fragile birds are, and rough handling (even accidental) can hurt a cockatiel. But once a child is old enough to learn proper care, these birds make loyal little companions.
Not Pricey to Buy — But Budget for Ongoing Care
You can usually find a cockatiel for anywhere from $70 to $300, depending on the color mutation and breeder. But the real cost comes over time: food, toys, cage upgrades, and vet visits. They’re not high-maintenance compared to some pets, but they’re not “cheap” either.
Chirpy Singers — But Not Big Talkers
Cockatiels aren’t known for their vocabulary, but they love to whistle and sing. Males tend to be the better “singers,” and they often develop little tunes or mimic sounds they hear often (microwave beeps, phone ringtones, etc.). If you’re looking for a chatterbox, another parrot species might suit you better — but if you love a cheerful morning serenade, cockatiels are perfect.
They Can’t Live in a Cage Full-Time
Letting your cockatiel out every day is essential. They need time to fly (or flutter, depending on wing clipping), explore, and interact with you. That means you’ll need a bird-safe room — no open windows, ceiling fans, cords, or fragile decorations. Think of it like baby-proofing, but for feathers.
Yes, They’re a Bit Messy
Feathers, seed shells, and droppings will happen. A cage with a pull-out tray makes cleaning easier, but know that some mess is part of bird life. Place the cage somewhere easy to sweep under, and be ready to wipe down surfaces more often than usual.
Diet: More Than Just Seeds
A balanced cockatiel diet includes high-quality pellets, fresh veggies (like leafy greens, carrots, and broccoli), a small portion of fruit, and an occasional seed treat. Clean, fresh water is a must — and it should be changed daily. I’ve found that offering chopped veggies in the morning when they’re hungriest works best.
Long Lifespan — Think 15-20 Years
With proper care, cockatiels can live well into their late teens or even early 20s. That’s a big commitment, especially if you’re getting one for a child. But it also means years of companionship, whistles, and silly antics.
Health and Vet Care Matter
Cockatiels are generally hardy, but they’re still prone to things like obesity, vitamin deficiencies, and respiratory issues if not cared for properly. Find a good avian vet (not all vets treat birds!) and schedule regular check-ups — ideally twice a year. And if you’re buying from a breeder, ask for health records. It gives you a better shot at a healthy bird from the start.
So… Is a Cockatiel Right for You?
Cockatiels are ideal for people who are home often, enjoy interactive pets, and want a long-term feathered friend. They’re great for families with older kids and for adults who want a companion with personality.
But they’re not a good match if:
- You’re gone most of the day.
- You don’t have time for daily out-of-cage time.
- You’re not ready to bird-proof your space.
- You have aggressive pets (like dogs or cats with strong prey instincts).
If you can meet their needs, though? You’re in for years of song, snuggles (yes, they love head scratches!), and plenty of laughs.
They may be small, but cockatiels have huge hearts — and they’ll quickly become a big part of your life.