my newly bought cockatiel pair are screaming.sometimes the male or female for a long time mostly in the morning or evening. this is a problem we get everyday this is a headache and when i go to the cage and talk to them they stay quiet.please give me a solution how to stop them.
Thank you for reaching out to Ask Lafeber. It is very common for newly purchased cockatiels to be more vocal, especially in the morning and evening. Cockatiels naturally call out at sunrise and near sunset, and a new environment can make them even louder as they adjust to their surroundings.
The fact that they become quiet when you approach and talk to them suggests they may be calling for attention or reassurance. Try spending time with them throughout the day, talking softly and offering treats or toys to keep them occupied. Providing plenty of enrichment, such as foraging toys, shreddable materials, and opportunities for exercise, can help reduce excessive calling.
Make sure their cage is placed in an area where they can see family activity without being in the middle of constant commotion. Also, maintain a consistent daily schedule for feeding, interaction, and sleep. Cockatiels need about 10-12 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night, and inadequate rest can contribute to increased vocalization.
Avoid yelling, covering the cage as punishment, or rushing to the cage every time they scream, as this can accidentally teach them that screaming gets attention. Instead, reward calm, quiet behavior with praise and interaction.
Because your birds are a pair, they may also be communicating with each other, which is a normal part of cockatiel behavior. While you may not be able to eliminate all vocalizations, you can often reduce excessive screaming by ensuring they feel secure, engaged, and well-rested.
If the screaming is sudden, extreme, or accompanied by signs of illness such as lethargy, fluffed feathers, loss of appetite, or changes in droppings, consult an avian veterinarian to rule out a health issue.
