COCKATIEL

Status In The Wild: Least Concern

The second most popular parrot among bird owners, the cockatiel, is a small and diversely colored bird. Gentle and friendly, the Nymphicus Hollandicus is easily trainable and exceptionally intelligent.

APPEARANCE

This small parrot comes in various colorations, including albino, lutino, pied, pearl, cinnamon, and silver. Birds of the same coloration are sexually dimorphic. Most birds also have orange cheek patches once they hit maturity (although some genetic mutations result in a bird having no cheek patches).

The average bird measures 13-inches long and weighs between 2 to 4-ounces.

VOCALIZATIONS

Considered to be a relatively quiet parrot species, this is a bird capable of whistling, mimicking, and vocalizing. Males of the species are more vocal than females and are more likely than females to talk.

LIFESPAN

In the wilds of Australia, this smaller parrot species lives between 10 to 15-years. In captivity, their lifespan can be much longer (between 15 to 25-years.)

LIFE AS A PET

A wonderful first bird, the Nymphicus Hollandicus is a gentle and loving bird that seeks physical contact. Dedicated training is a must; however, because, without gentle guidance, this small parrot can be nippy and destructive.

PAIRING

The Nymphicus Hollandicus can live as an “only bird” if they receive enough attention and interaction from their owner. If regular and ongoing interaction is impossible, pairing two birds together is a good plan.

Like many other parrot species, this bird is monogamous, and once two birds pair, they are paired for life. This bond lasts through the mating season and continues for life.