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Species description
The cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus) is the sole member of genus Nymphicus within the cockatoo family. Total length 30–33 cm including a 14–16 cm pointed tail; ~100 g body mass. Signature traits are a high crest and long tail. Sexual dimorphism is evident: males are brighter with a yellow head and crest, velvety black flight and tail feathers with a bluish-gray sheen, and orange cheek patches; females are duller overall with a pale gray head and yellowish markings on flight and tail feathers. Juveniles resemble females until 10–12 months, when adult plumage appears. Many color morphs are established in captivity—albino, white, lutino, light gray, cinnamon, dark-yellowish, “checked,” pearl, white-winged, black-winged, “black,” and more—making visual sexing harder.
Sexing
Before 9–12 months, reliable visual sexing applies mainly to the “wild-type” morph. Behavioral male cues include beak “drumming,” complex song, hopping displays, and the characteristic “heart-wing” pose—overall more vocal activity. After the juvenile molt, wild-type males show a yellow head, vivid orange cheeks, and unspotted inner wing and tail feathers. A DNA test is the 100% accurate method across morphs.
Range and habitat
Native to arid Australia—grassy steppes with scattered trees and shrubs, river and lake plains, and at times semi-deserts. Outside breeding, they form groups of 10–50 birds, concentrating near water during droughts.
Ecology and diet
Found along riparian belts, open eucalypt groves, and shrub savannas. Often perch atop dead trees and tall bushes where their plumage offers camouflage. Diet is mainly seeds of grasses and woody plants; they also dig out small roots and basal plant parts, visit flowering eucalypts for nectar, and may take small invertebrates. With proper care they live 15–25 years in captivity.
Breeding
Breeding aligns with the rainy season when food is abundant. Nests are placed in hollows of thick dead branches. Typical clutch 3–7 white eggs; ~21-day incubation shared by both parents. Fledging occurs at 4–6 weeks; adults often start a second clutch while still feeding the first brood.
Husbandry
Cockatiels tame easily, can whistle tunes and mimic a few words; males are better singers. Provide a spacious cage or aviary, enrichment and foraging items. Diet should be varied: twig fodder, sprouted grains, vegetables, fruits, greens, protein (insects), and minerals. Soaked seed mix should be ≤15% of the daily ration. Export of wild birds from Australia is prohibited; captive breeding is well established.
Buy a Cockatiel: order and shipping
At our farm you can purchase cockatiels. Delivery across Ukraine. For availability and delivery details, contact via Viber, Telegram or by phone 050-182-27-27.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is a cockatiel best for?
Beginners and families ready for daily interaction and room/free-flight time in a safe space or aviary.
How to build a basic diet
Quality seed mix for medium parrots, sprouts, fresh greens and vegetables, fruit in moderation, mineral supplements, and constant access to clean water.
How to sex a cockatiel at home
After the juvenile molt, wild-type males show a yellow head and bright cheek patches with unspotted inner wing and tail. Across color morphs, use a DNA test for certainty.