How to buy a pet Cockatiel

The first step in deciding to get a pet of any kind is to learn as much as possible about the animal, and determine if it's really the right pet for you. Cockatiels are wonderful pets to many people and can bring joy for many years with the proper care.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Decide between a male or female cockatiel. Males are typically more colorful, easier to train, but can be noisy with lots of whistling. Females are typically quiet, but bite more often than males.

2. Determine where a cage would fit in your home. Most cockatiel experts recommend getting the largest cage possible, with an 18-inch cage being the minimum size. A cage with a large floor will make for a happy cockatiel, as they are ground feeders in the wild.

3. Think about the responsibility and commitment that owning a cockatiel entails. Cockatiels live, on average, between 12 and 17 years. If well-cared for and given a varied diet, some cockatiels can live into their 30s.

4. Call local veterinarians to find one that has experience caring for birds, particularly cockatiels. Your vet will be a great resource in how to best care for your cockatiel, in addition to caring for your bird when it becomes ill.

5. Find a good quality breeder of cockatiels. Someone who loves cockatiels and is interested in the health and betterment of the breed is almost always going to yield you a healthier bird than someone who's just in it for the money.