Steps In Adopting A Cockatiel

Cockatiels are the second best parrots to have and are very well known for their extremely affectionate and excellent personalities; budgies being the first popular parrots to own.

Steps involved in adopting a cockatiel: 

1) First you need to do a research regarding whether you can afford a cockatiel, its food, treats, toys and you have sufficient space for a cage for this big bird. Next you need to make sure you have quality time to spend with an active bird as a cockatiel. Also you need time to clean the cage and chop the greens and need to do research regarding the best avian vet in your area.

2) The size of the cage should be big enough to allow free movement of the pet; the gap between bars should be small enough to prevent the bird’s head from being stuck.  Use stockpile newspaper to line the bottom of the cage to catch the dropping feces of the cockatiel. Make sure to discard colored newspaper as it could harm the bird. Make sure to disinfect the entire cage with warm water at least twice a month. Also make sure to provide these active birds with plenty of toys and circulate the toys to keep them amused.

3) Next you need to decide if you would like to adopt a cockatiel from a rescue organization, trustworthy pet shop or bird breeder. Adopting a cockatiel from rescue organization or bird shelter would give you satisfaction of having saved a life. In case you want to buy a cockatiel from pet shop or bird breeder, it is first best to check out from people that already have these birds; this could facilitate finding the best seller. Never buy a cockatiel from an owner or store that has a sick bird; the disease would spread and your pet cockatiel could get sick or die within a short time of adopting it. 

4) Make sure the cockatiel that you want to adopt is active, has clear eyes and a clean nose. Also ensure the feathers of the bird is not dirty and fluffed up and there are no droppings stuck to the feather. In addition check the age of the bird; for example the grey beak of grey cockatiels turns darker with age.

5) The cockatiel that you wish to adopt has equal right to choose you; a good and healthy cockatiel is not all about pretty feathers alone. Picking up a curious and playful bird is advisable; it could be a bird that wants head scratches or one that is happy playing with a toy. It is best as a bird owner to understand that each cockatiel has its own distinctive personality; you need to take the help of avian experts to know which the bird is most suited to you. 

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