Cockatiel

The Cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus) is a small to medium-sized parrot and the smallest member of the cockatoo family. It measures about 30 to 33 cm (12 to 13 in), and its long tail feathers make up roughly half of that length.

The usual wild-type Cockatiel is mostly grey with white flashes on the outer edge of each wing, a crest, and a round orange patch on each cheek, sometimes called cheddar cheeks. Males have a yellow or white face, while females are mostly grey or light grey in the face with a more muted orange patch.

Cockatiels are widely recognised for their sociable, playful nature. Their love of human company has made them one of the most commonly kept companion parrots in the world.

Cockatiels are native to Australia, where they live mainly in arid or semi-arid country, always close to water. They favour wetlands, scrublands and bushlands, and are found in places such as western New South Wales, Queensland, Alice Springs and the Kimberley region. They are largely nomadic and move to wherever food and water can be found.

The bird was first described in 1788 and moved into its own genus in 1832. The genus name Nymphicus comes from early European travellers, who thought the birds so beautiful that they named them after mythical nymphs. The species name hollandicus refers to New Holland, an old name for Australia.

For a long time it was unclear whether the Cockatiel was a crested parakeet or a small cockatoo. Molecular studies showed it is a true member of the cockatoo family, in its own subfamily. Cockatiels have since become popular in aviculture, and 22 colour mutations are now established worldwide. The pied mutation first appeared in California in 1949, lutino in 1958 and pearling in 1967.

Cockatiels are sociable and playful, and they have a strong affinity for human interaction. In the wild they are typically seen in pairs or small flocks, and sometimes hundreds gather around one body of water.

The crest shows mood. It stands dramatically upright when the bird is startled or excited, sits gently angled when relaxed, and lies flat against the head when the bird is angry or defensive. A tired Cockatiel holds its crest halfway up, often with the tip curling upward.

Cockatiels can be very vocal. They learn words and phrases by mimicry, and males are usually quicker to learn speech and have more varied calls. Some can be taught melodies, and some have even synchronised their tunes with human songs. Others pick up household sounds such as alarm clocks and phones.

The average Cockatiel lifespan is 12 to 15 years. In captivity under appropriate conditions, 16 to 25 years can be expected, and the oldest confirmed bird was reportedly 36.

Many pet Cockatiels suffer chronic malnutrition and behavioural problems, partly because their care needs are poorly understood.

Cockatiels shed a fine white powder, known as dander, made of broken-down feather sheaths, skin cells and preen gland secretions. When inhaled often, this dust can cause hay fever, bird fancier's lung and other allergic reactions in people.

The popular lutino colour often comes with a small bald patch behind the crest, linked to inbreeding.

This is general awareness only, not veterinary advice. Always consult a vet about your pet's health.

What is a Cockatiel?

A Cockatiel is a small crested parrot from Australia and the smallest member of the cockatoo family. It is known for its orange cheek patches and long tail.

How long do Cockatiels live?

The average is 12 to 15 years. In captivity with appropriate living conditions, 16 to 25 years is expected, and one bird reportedly reached 36.

Are Cockatiels good pets?

They are among the most popular companion parrots in the world because they are sociable and enjoy human interaction. However, many owners are unfamiliar with their needs, and Cockatiels have one of the highest surrender rates among pet birds, often within about 1.5 years of adoption.

Can Cockatiels talk?

Yes, they can mimic words, phrases and household sounds, and can learn tunes. Males are usually faster to learn and have more varied calls.

How can you tell male and female Cockatiels apart?

In the usual grey type, adult males have a bright yellow face and vivid cheek patches, while females stay mostly grey-faced with duller cheeks. This only shows after the first moult, at about six to nine months. Most young wild-type birds look female, and some mutations are sex-linked and show differences earlier.

Do Cockatiels make dust?

Yes. Like other cockatoos, they shed a fine white powder called dander, which can cause allergic reactions when inhaled often.

The Cockatiel is the only member of its genus, Nymphicus.

Cockatiels are the only cockatoos that may breed by the end of their first year.

At least one hybrid between a Cockatiel and a galah has been documented, nicknamed a galatiel.

A single bird can carry several colour mutations at once, such as a lutino with pearling, which is a double mutation.

In the wild, Cockatiels nest in tree hollows near fresh water, often in eucalyptus trees. A hen lays 4 to 7 eggs, and the chicks fledge after about 5 weeks.