How to Handfeed a Baby Cockatiel

Handfeeding a baby cockatiel gets it used to having contact with humans and helps the bird learn to trust them. It's a rewarding task, although it requires commitment, time and a willing disposition. Keep these guidelines in mind when deciding to handfeed a baby cockatiel.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Feeding formula
• Syringe or spoon
• Sauce pan
• Dish
• Paper towel
• Disinfectant solution

1. Select a feeding formula, like Pretty Bird or Kaytee Handfeeding Formula.
2. Select a feeding utensil. Some breeders like to use a bent spoon. Others prefer to use a syringe or a pipette.
3. Prepare the formula according to directions on the container. Use a thermometer to check the temperature. The temperature should be between 104 and 106 degrees F. A temperature higher than 106 degrees F will burn the bird's crop and could even cause death.
4. Place the baby cockatiel on a flat surface on a clean paper towel. Hold the feeding utensil with your right hand. Cup your left hand and gently support your baby cockatiel while you feed him.
5. Feed the baby bird from the left side of his mouth. When he's facing you, his left is your right. Place the dropper on the left side of his mouth pointed towards the right side and apply slow even pressure on the syringe plunger. The bird's windpipe is on the right side; if food goes down the windpipe, the baby bird could choke to death.
6. Discontinue feeding the cockatiel when the crop is full and plump but not over extended. The baby will want food even after the crop fills up. If you continue feeding, the crop can stretch.
7. Clean any food on the baby bird as soon as you finish feeding it. A baby bird's skin is delicate and dry food can be hard to clean afterwards. Wash the feeding utensils in a disinfectant solution, like Nolvasan, Wavicide or Clorox bleach and soapy water, before the next feeding session. Rinse off the disinfectant thoroughly.