The Cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus) is a member of the cockatoo family endemic to Australia. Renowned for their friendly and gentle demeanor, they are one of the most popular companion birds in the world. Their manageable size, coupled with their iconic expressive crest and talent for whistling, makes them an ideal choice for both beginner and experienced bird owners.
Sexing a cockatiel can be straightforward or tricky, depending on its color mutation. For the "Normal Gray" (wild type) cockatiel, adults can be distinguished:
For many other mutations (like Lutino or Pied), these visual clues are absent, and a DNA test may be the only way to be certain.
The wild cockatiel is predominantly gray with a yellow and orange face. Through decades of breeding, a wide variety of beautiful color mutations are now available:
Cockatiels are very vocal birds, but they are known more for whistling than talking. Males, in particular, are talented whistlers and can learn to mimic complex tunes and songs. They also have a loud "flock call" they use to locate their companions.
While they are not known as great talkers, some cockatiels (mostly males) can learn to say a few words or phrases. Their speech is generally less clear than that of a budgie.
Like their budgerigar cousins, wild cockatiels are native to the Australian outback. They are nomadic birds that fly in small to large flocks, following the seasonal rains to find food and water. Their diet consists mainly of seeds from grasses, shrubs, and trees, which they forage for on the ground.
With proper care, a cockatiel can be a cherished companion for 15 to 20 years, or even longer.
Provide a spacious cage that allows the bird to stretch its wings fully. It should have horizontal bars for climbing and be equipped with a variety of perches, toys, and clean food and water bowls. They are social birds and enjoy being in a room where the family gathers.
A balanced diet is key. A high-quality pelleted diet should form the base, supplemented with a small amount of seed mix. Offer fresh vegetables daily and occasional fruit. Avoid toxic foods like avocado, chocolate, and caffeine. Be aware that they are prone to "night frights"—sudden panics in the dark—so a night light near the cage can be helpful.
Cockatiels are social and crave attention. Daily interaction, including out-of-cage playtime in a safe, bird-proofed area, is essential to prevent boredom and behavioral issues.
By the Les-Oiseaux.com team, published on July 10, 2025
My personal advice: To truly understand your cockatiel, learn to read its crest. It's the most honest indicator of their mood and a fantastic communication tool.
A crest held straight up means they are curious, excited, or on alert. When it's flattened tightly against their head, it's a clear warning: they are scared, angry, or feeling defensive—it's best to give them space. The sign of a happy, relaxed, and content cockatiel is a crest held gently back, at about a 45-degree angle. Mastering this "crest-ology" is the key to building a deep bond with your bird.
The Cockatiel is a species of "Least Concern" (LC) according to the IUCN. It is abundant throughout its native range in Australia and its population is stable.
The crest is a mood indicator. Straight up means curious or excited. Flattened against the head means angry, scared, or defensive. A gently relaxed, half-raised crest indicates a calm and content bird.
Cockatiels are not known for their talking ability like budgies are. However, they are exceptional whistlers and can learn to mimic complex melodies, tunes, and household sounds like doorbells or phones. Males are typically more vocal than females.
Yes, cockatiels are considered one of the best pet birds for beginners. Their gentle, affectionate nature and relatively small size make them easier to care for than larger parrots, while still being highly interactive and trainable.