“God loved the birds and invented trees. Man loved the birds and invented cages.“
Jacques Deval
Handfeeding
Food
Care
Go through this page for information on care for adult birds
FAQs
What is the use of band?
It helps in determining the year of birth of the bird. It is a unique identifier of the bird. So even if the bird is lost and found, it can help in determining the rightful owner. Also, when the bird is DNA tested, DNA certificate holds the number on the band thus confirming the gender of the bird in question.
What are the types of band?
There is closed band and open/split band. Closed band is put on the bird when the bird is still a baby around 2 weeks old. Closed band cannot be put on the adult bird. Open band is used for adult birds.
Is it enough to just feed seeds to cockatiels?
Cockatiels in general need more than seeds for their well being. This is true for other birds too. They need atleast 50% of seeds and 50% of pellets. In addition, they need soft food.
Is there any special care to be taken when bringing the bird home for the first time?
When the cockatiel is bought from outside, the bird will not know the new place or the people. For the initial few days it is advisable to remove the perch at the top and keep the lower perch closer to the food cups. Also, if there are any hanging toys, removing them helps. Once the bird is used to the new place and people and starts eating normally, then the top perch and toys can be kept back one by one after few days.
What is the suitable age of breeding for cockatiels?
Cockatiels tend to do that as young as 8 months old. But best time is around 1 year old.
Should I check the difference in age between male and female cockatiels when they breed?
It is not needed. For instance, cockatiels of 5 years old can be put along with a year old.
Do siblings breed among cockatiels?
Yes then tend to. But it is advisable to breed only the cockatiels from unrelated parents.
Is it ok to clip wings?
It depends on the need. New bird in new place tend to be scared. He/she will try to fly hitting against obstacles leading to injuries. If wings are clipped, such risks are less. Once the bird is tamed, he/she can manage well when the wings grow back. During molting time which is around 3 to 4 months of age, the wings grow back.