Cockatiel
(Nymphicus hollandicus)
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Animal Type
Birds
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Exhibits
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Range
Australia
Overview
Cockatiels are medium-sized birds, more closely related to cockatoos than other parrots. Their plumage is usually grey, with white streaks along the front edges of their wings. Juveniles and females have slightly grey faces, while males sport yellow or white hues. Both males and females have round orange patches behind their eyes, although these are brighter in males.
Another distinguishing feature is the crest of feathers atop their heads. The angle of the crest can show whether the cockatiel is alert, relaxed, threatened or defensive. These signals, along with vocal calls, songs, and specific wing movements, help flock members communicate and bond.
Cockatiels are popular pets. Despite their popularity, they (as with many birds) require specific care, often for many years. In their natural habitat, cockatiels live 10 to 15 years; with proper diet, exercise and regular veterinary care, they can live well into their 20s or longer.
When walking through Australia: Wild Extremes, guests should look along the cliff walls and up at bare-limbed trees for the best chance of seeing the flock on exhibit.
Quick Facts
Learn more about cockatiels! Did you know that some migrate in flocks of 100 to 1,000 individuals? They can reach flight speeds of 30 miles per hour.
Cockatiels are naturally found year-round throughout Australia and prefer inland areas to coastal ones. They live in open scrub or woodlands near a source of fresh water.
The weather in northern Australia is less consistent, so cockatiels roam shorter distances to take advantage of new food and water sources. Cockatiels in the southern half of the country undertake seasonal migrations, since weather patterns there are more predictable.
Cockatiels primarily forage for seeds. They've been known to eat fruits, berries and, occasionally, insects. Normally, they search for fallen, dried seeds on the ground, which can make them vulnerable to predation.
These birds can reach an average length of 9 to 13 inches from crest to tail and can have wingspans over 12 inches. They weigh an average of 2.5 to 4 ounces.
The cockatiel population has not been formally estimated, but is considered stable given the species' large range and relative abundance.
Despite their drab coloration providing some camouflage when foraging on the ground, cockatiels are vulnerable to raptors such as falcons, hawks, and kites.
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