Native to Australia the Cockatiel, like the Cockatoo, has a movable crest which is used to signal its emotions. The crest usually stands straight up when the bird is excited, lays flat against the head when they’re angry or agitated and stands somewhere in between the two when they’re feeling more or less content In fact the Cockatoo and the Cockatiel belong to the same genetic family. Compared to the Cockatoo, the Cockatiels are generally "less work" to keep. They are also smaller, quieter, less expensive, and less prone to stress related feather picking. Due to their even temperament the Cockatiel makes great companions for a family with children. They have the reputation as being the most docile companion parrot. They are probably one of the cheapest companion parrots. A handfed cockatiel is usually around 75 dollars.

   The Cockatiel comes in a wide variety of color mutations with about 16 primary mutations. The problem with some of the mutations is that a large bald spot develops below the crest. When they breed they lay four to seven eggs at a time two days apart. The young hatch in 18 to 21 days and are independent in eight to nine weeks.

    Once bonded with their owners, they will often cuddle and play, pushing their head against hands or faces, and may nibble at fingers for attention to get a scratch on the head and back of the neck. Cockatiels love to chew paper, this activity can keep them busy for hours, just make sure it doesn't a hold of any bills or homework!

    Cockatiels require atleast an hour of interaction a day or they will "go wild". They love to fly so the larger the cage the better. They need a few toys in their cage but it shouldnt be cluddered. Cockatiels need at least 12 hours of sleep a night or they can become very moody. They can be feed seeds but it is more benifical to the bird if it is feed a mixture of seeds, pellets and "greens".

     Many Cockatiels suffer from night fright. Sometimes a Cockatiel will thrash about in its cage in a sudden fear of darkness so it is wise to have a nightlight in the cockatiels room when it sleeps. If your bird does experience night fright remain calm, if you panic the bird will most likely keep thrashing. When night fright happens turn on the light and remove the cover. Talk to your bird in a soothing tone and move slowly. Reassure the bird that everything is ok. Make sure the bird did not break a blood feather during the thrashing, after the bird has calmed down you can put it back to sleep.

    Male and female Cockatiels differ slightly not only in appearance but in their behavior. Mature males have bright orange circles on their cheeks, the females orange circles aren't as bright. Mature males also have more yellow coloration on their faces. Male Cockatiels have the reputation of being louder than the females. The males like to strut up and down perches and whistle with the females watching silently from a distance. Males can learn many words but it is extremely rare for a female to talk. A Cockatiels real talent is whistling.