Most new cockatiel owners have high hopes of developing a close bond with their pet cockatiel. Sometimes we forget that a bird kept in captivity is not in his natural habitat, and thus he can't always live up to your expectations. It is best to equip yourself with knowledge and understanding, as well as respect for your pets behavior, and in this way you will be well on your way to nurturing a happy and trusting relationship with your cockatiel.
There are certain behaviors that are common in most cockatiels. Here is a list of some of the most common ones.
Attention getting behavior:
As your cockatiel gets settled in your home, you will notice when you get up in the morning, you will hear him fluffing himself up to let you know he is also awake. He may also get your attention with his voice, or playing loudly with his toys.
Grinding his beak:
Beak grinding is common and is like a cat purring. It is a sign of contentment, and if often heard as the bird falls asleep at night.
Wiping his beak on the perch:
This is how your cockatiel keeps his mouth clean, just as we use serviettes.
Cat Naps:
Cockatiels often take naps in the day, and unless he looks sick and fluffed up, there is no need for concern.
Aerobics:
Birds, especially parrots like to suddenly start doing stretching exercises, like grabbing the cage with their beaks and stretching his wings and legs. He may also raise both his wings to look like an eagle.
Fluffing:
Fluffing is a prelude to preening, and can also be used to release tension. If he stays fluffed up all the time, then it could be that he is sick, and you need to contact your vet.
Hissing:
This happens when your bird is frightened, and he is trying to scare off whatever has frightened him.
Mutual preening:
This is a sign of affection reserved for best friends or mates. Consider it an honor if your bird tries to preen your hair or eyelashes, or even your arms and hands.
Possessiveness:
Cockatiels often become attached to one person, especially if that person is responsible for their care. He may hiss at other family members if he feels they are getting to close to his person. The best way to prevent this is to get different members of your family to spend time with your cockatiel and tend to his basic needs.
Regurgitating:
If your cockatiel starts bobbing his head and pumping his neck and crop muscles, he is about to regurgitate some of his food for you. This is normally done between mates during breeding season, and is a mark of great affection, so try not to be too disgusted if he does this to you.
Resting on one foot:
This is normal. What is not normal is if your cockatiel never rests on one foot. If this is the case contact your vet, as this can indicate a health problem.
Screaming:
Well cared for birds will normally be quiet. Screaming normally happens with neglected cockatiels and they are looking for attention. Once your bird becomes a screamer, it is a difficult habit to break, as he will know he gets attention, even if it is negative. If you give your bird at least 30 minutes of attention per day, keep him entertained with toys and an interesting environment, and leave the TV or radio playing when you are out, he shouldn't become a screamer.
Sneezing:
A cockatiel normally sneezes to clear its nares (nostrils). If he starts sneezing continuously and there is a discharge from his nares, consult your vet.
Tasting and testing with his beak:
Cockatiels will use their beaks to explore and taste different things. He may experiment with your hand before stepping onto it for the first time. He isn't being mean, merely satisfying his curiosity, and making sure that his new perch (your finger) is strong enough to hold him.
Thrashing:
This is most common among the Lutino variety of cockatiel. It usually happens because the cockatiel is frightened by something. If your cockatiel is prone to thrashing a night, a small night light might help. Also try to remove any harmful toys or objects in the cage that could potentially injure him during his flappings.
Another common cockatiel behavior is that they are normally very vocal in the mornings and early evenings. If he calls to you when you are out of the room, he could be feeling insecure, or something may be wrong.
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