Cockatiel

Wild-type cockatiels are primarily grey with prominent white wing patches, a yellow face, and orange ear-patches. Males generally have brighter yellow faces and more distinct orange patches, while females and juveniles often have barred tails and duller faces. Color mutations such as lutino (yellow/white), pied, and pearl are very common in captivity.

Erectile yellow crest, prominent orange ear patches, long tapered tail, and grey body (in wild-type).

Length: 30-33 cm (12-13 inches), Wingspan: approx. 35 cm, Weight: 75-125 grams.

A variety of chatters, cheerful whistles, and a distinctive loud, piercing alarm call.

Primarily seeds, grains, fruits, and vegetation in the wild; pellet-based diets, seeds, and fresh vegetables when kept as pets.

Arid and semi-arid Australian bushlands, scrublands, and open woodlands, almost always close to water.

Nomadic rather than truly migratory, moving in flocks following water and food supplies in response to erratic rainfall.

Nests in tree hollows near water; clutch size is typically 4-6 eggs, incubated by both parents who also share chick-rearing duties.

Belongs to the cockatoo family (Cacatuidae); easily distinguished from other cockatoos by its much smaller size and long tail feathers.

Acts as a seed disperser and plays a part in the local ecosystem of its Australian range, though heavily impacted by human cultivation.

Least Concern (IUCN), with stable wild populations.

In the wild, look near water sources in the Australian outback during early morning or late afternoon. In captivity, observe gentle interactions and enjoy their whistling capabilities.

Cockatiels are the smallest members of the cockatoo family and can express their emotions—like excitement or fear—through the position of their head crest.