Cockatiels are very sweet, loving birds that make great pets for anyone. They are quiet and many love to cuddle and have their head scratched and in return will preen your hair and clothes!

General Diet:

Cockatiels are basically seed eaters in the wild so can be fed a diet in captivity that mainly consists of many types of seeds as found in Cockatiel Seed Mixes, and pelleted diets are available as well.

Vitamins/Supplements:

Birds need a vitamin, mineral, and amino acid supplement added to their food everyday.

Treats/Extra Foods:

Cockatiels do well if given some vegetables and fruit along with their regular diet. These can include cooked or raw corn, peas, carrots, dark lettuces (no iceberg), beans, apples, raisins, and even some cooked pasta. Basically anything good for you is good for them (just avoid avocado, asparagus, and anything sugary, salty, or greasy). Seed treats such as millet and treat sticks are great for Cockatiels! Not only do they give extra nutrition but can keep a bird busy for hours!

Housing:

Cockatiels like a cage where they can flap their wings in easily, and the bigger the cage the better for the bird. Cockatiels should be kept in cages that have bars no more than half an inch wide. Luckily, there are many colors and styles to choose from and can be matched to the area that it will be placed. One feed cup and one water cup are basics with the cage along with perches and a tray on the bottom. Corn cob bedding is needed in the bottom of their cage.

Sanitation/General Care:

Every day scrub out the water dish with a light dishwashing detergent and rinse well. Birds eat their seed mix from the top, so take off the top layer of seed every day that has been eaten, and then add more new seed and mix thoroughly. Change seed completely every 2-3 days. The tray should be cleaned at least once a week or more often depending on cage size and the number of birds in the cage. Perches should also be cleaned off (washed if plastic, scraped if wooden) once a week or as needed. At least once a month, clean out the cage completely by washing the bars, base, tray, and all toys and accessories made of plastic or metal thoroughly.