Thinking of Getting a Cockatiel

[blissfulbirds]

I am considering getting a cockatiel, but I am unsure whether to get one or two birds. If anyone could share some advice it would be much appreciated!
I will be away for about 4-6 hours for school during the week, however, there will always be at least one person home at all times. I have lots of time after school to spend with the bird, and some time in the morning as well. I would prefer one bird for a stronger bond and less cost and mess, but I am willing to get a second if 4-6 hours is too long for the bird to be without me. I have been researching this for a while and every website has a different answer whether cockatiels need a partner or not. Would I be ok with getting just one cockatiel or do I have to get 2 for them to be happy?
Thank you!

 

[tripletfeb]

I love my cockatiel, George! He turned 16 this year. He is alone during the day, in his cage, for about 6 hours until I get home. And sometimes he stays in his cage longer, its his safe zone. I do put different toys in there and he loves playing with them. If you are going to let yours out of the cage, clip his wings so he cant fly. Its not hard at all. That way if a window or door is open, he cant fly away. He can talk and whistle. He loves calling our new puppy "dumb dog"! One bird will be good esp if you want to bond with him better. 2 birds will bond with each other and not you as much. Good luck!

 

[tripletfeb]

I forgot to mention that cockatiels are very dusty birds. Their down feathers turn into a dust when they shake them out. So don't put your bird cage by any electronics(tv, computer) because the dust can clog things.

 

[blissfulbirds]

I love my cockatiel, George! He turned 16 this year. He is alone during the day, in his cage, for about 6 hours until I get home. And sometimes he stays in his cage longer, its his safe zone. I do put different toys in there and he loves playing with them. If you are going to let yours out of the cage, clip his wings so he cant fly. Its not hard at all. That way if a window or door is open, he cant fly away. He can talk and whistle. He loves calling our new puppy "dumb dog"! One bird will be good esp if you want to bond with him better. 2 birds will bond with each other and not you as much. Good luck!

Thank you so much! I also didn't know about the dust, but the place I am planning to put the cage is pretty large and I don't think clogging things would be too much of a problem there. What an adorable bird you have too!

 

[tripletfeb]

Thanks! He's a good boy. Are you planning on training your bird? I suggest it highly, esp if you are going to have him out of the cage. The first, and best, trick he should learn is "step up" That gets him up on your finger so you can move him wherever. Just put your finger against his chest and say "step up" Give him a little treat when he does it. He should perch on your finger on no time!

 

[blissfulbirds]

Thanks! He's a good boy. Are you planning on training your bird? I suggest it highly, esp if you are going to have him out of the cage. The first, and best, trick he should learn is "step up" That gets him up on your finger so you can move him wherever. Just put your finger against his chest and say "step up" Give him a little treat when he does it. He should perch on your finger on no time!

Yes, I plan on spending plenty of time training and just hanging out outside the cage! Thank you for that trick I will be sure to try it first!

 

[JaeG]

Cockatiels make fantastic pets. We have 2 special boys. One is a sweet gentle bird who loves our son and is endlessly tolerant (our son is a bit loud and unpredictable). The other is a cheeky, self centered little brat who we adore.

My son's bird, Lemmy (short for Lemonade)


And Sprout


As long as your bird has company of some kind it will be just fine. Some people leave the tv or radio on during the day while they are away at work.

You will love having a cockatiel. They are messy creatures, but so loving that you won't care.

 

[Phocyn]

Cockatiels need a lot of attention if your going to have just one bird. This is the best start method for you. Just remember they live up to 30 years in some cases.

 

[blissfulbirds]

Cockatiels make fantastic pets. We have 2 special boys. One is a sweet gentle bird who loves our son and is endlessly tolerant (our son is a bit loud and unpredictable). The other is a cheeky, self centered little brat who we adore.

My son's bird, Lemmy (short for Lemonade)
View attachment 2335071

And Sprout
View attachment 2335072

As long as your bird has company of some kind it will be just fine. Some people leave the tv or radio on during the day while they are away at work.

You will love having a cockatiel. They are messy creatures, but so loving that you won't care.

Thank you for the advice! and beautiful birds

 

[Quailobsessed]

All parrots require a lot of work, whether it's a budgie or a macaw. Please remember this when considering getting one.

Make sure you give it plenty of toys to keep it occupied when you're not around. I'm not talking about plastic or fabric toys with bells on them. I mean natural toys made with parrot safe materials (I'd be happy to link a video explaining the difference between good and bad toys if you like ). Even (parrot safe) tree branches work well as toys. My birds keep themselves entertained by pulling the leaves off.

I know this is controversial, but I don't like clipping birds' wings. I don't want to get into a debate about it, but I don't like taking away their freedom of flight. I prefer to flight train them.

If you want any tips on parrot training, I'm happy to help

Please remember, Buying a parrot isn't a decision to be taken lightly.