Cockatiels - Charming climber with a gentle nature

Cockatiels are sociable and intelligent birds known for their friendly nature and characteristic crests. They require sufficient space, social interaction, and diverse enrichment opportunities to ensure their well-being.

Species-appropriate husbandry – How to make them feel comfortable

Out and about together
Cockatiels should be kept in pairs at a minimum, or better yet, in small groups. Keeping them alone is not species-appropriate and can lead to behavioral disorders.

Structured aviary
The aviary should be at least 200 × 60 × 150 cm (L × W × H) in size. For up to two additional pairs, the floor area must be increased by 50%. The furnishings should include natural branches, perches, and sheltered sleeping areas.

Daily free flight
A free flight space of at least 2.5 m³ is required for up to three pairs. The room should be safe and structured to support their natural urge to move.

Bathing opportunities
Cockatiels require regular bathing opportunities for plumage maintenance. Both water and sand baths should always be accessible.

Cleanliness & Hygiene

🧽 Daily care
🧼 Weekly change
💦 Keep bathing areas clean

A clean environment is essential for the health of cockatiels:

Fresh every day
Litter, as well as food and water bowls, must be cleaned daily. This keeps the environment hygienic and the animals healthy.

Weekly basic care
The substrate should be completely replaced once a week. More frequent cleaning is recommended for larger groups.

Hygiene when bathing
Clean water and sand baths are a must. They are important for the plumage care and well-being of the birds.

Nutrition

🌾 Grain feed
🥦 Vegetables & fruit
🧂 Minerals & grit

Cockatiels require a balanced diet consisting of high-quality seed feed for parakeets, supplemented with fresh vegetables, fruit, and occasional sprouted food. Grit and mineral stones support digestion. Fresh water must always be available.

Grains as a basis
The basis is high-quality mixtures for parakeets. They provide energy and correspond to the natural eating habits of the birds.

Fresh food supplements
Vegetables, fruit, and sprouted food provide variety and deliver important vitamins. They promote vitality, color brilliance, and health.

Secure minerals
Grit and mineral stones support digestion. Fresh water should always be available.

Activity

🧗 Climbing & swinging
👥Social games
🌿 New incentives

These curious birds need a variety of employment opportunities:

Cockatiels are very active and curious – they love to climb, bathe, and explore their surroundings. Climbing branches, swings, changing perches, and natural materials stimulate movement. Particularly exciting: hidden feeding spots and new branches in the flight area.

Active design
Natural branches, swings, and perches promote movement. They provide variety and prevent boredom.

Social interaction
Cockatiels are very sociable birds. Exploring and playing together strengthens their bonds and increases their well-being.

Everyday impulses
New branches, food hiding places, and varied materials awaken the spirit of discovery and keep the animals active.