Cockatiels are one amongst the most intellectual species of birds. They also make a wonderful pet. They are social creatures, and they do not mind the company of human beings. They can talk and whistle just like a human being which is quite a fascinating features about these birds.

Unfortunately, most people have little idea on how to take care of this exceptional bird. Some people buy this pet, and throw it inside a packed cage, and feed it with whatever food they find appropriate. People who love their pet wouldn’t indulge in such activities.

If one takes good care of them then they can survive up to 15 years. One of the primary things one needs to consider is to provide them with a good surrounding and place to live. Allot a cage which is clean and neat to live in. The cage should be large enough to accommodate it easily with extended wings. It should be able to make movements and flap its wings without hitting the cage on either side.

It’s also important to provide them with mental exercises. One should not keep the beautiful pet caged for a long period of time. Free the bird and allow it to venture in your close proximity on daily basis. Allow it to take flight once or twice a day so that it feels refreshed throughout the day.

Good nutritious food and pure water should be a part of your cockatiel’s diet. Sunflower seeds, flowers, corn are great to feed your bird with. Balance the diet with essential vitamins, minerals, seeds and other ingredients.

If your cockatiel gets bored, it can start plucking its own features. One needs to make sure that their cockatiel does not get into this habit. Although they will be able to take flight without features, you certainly wouldn’t find the bird attractive and appealing without its features. This habit will end up tarnishing its beauty. You can either keep it engaged by playing around with it, if you have the time to do so, or you can provide them with toys to play around. Yes, you may have to treat it like a small child offering it with toys inside the cage. Instead of providing them with too many toys at the same time, it’s always a great idea to switch toys so that it does not get used to a particular toy, or for that matters get bored playing with a particular toy.

Provide them with regular bath to keep them clean. If a cockatiel is not given a bath regularly then it will start scratching its skin. They will look prettier after a fun bath.

Remember, unlike other birds, cockatiel requires 10 to 12 hours of sleep on daily basis. If you have an environment which hinders its sleep then it might get depressed, and fall sick very soon.

For pet owners responsibility is inevitable, irrespective of the pet you own. As a pet owner, it’s important to understand the care procedure and measures one need to take in order to keep this exotic bird healthy for long.

Jason Ladock

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