Ask Lafeber

Should I get a Cockatiel?

I have been visiting this pet store for about a year. I visit with all of the animals, but this 1 year old cockatiel stands out to me. I’ve never had a bird before, so I’ve been researching for days now, I’ve been sure about getting him until I read that without a mate, they will pick you as their mate. That broke my heart, doesn’t seem like he could be truly happy in my home. Thoughts? I also have three sons aged 10, 9, 8 and our home is not quiet. Advice please.

Hi,

What you have read is inaccurate. A pet bird should be a companion, but you should never encourage a mate bond. This means limit petting to only the head and neck and avoid cuddling. Encourage your bird to play with toys and forage for food by providing foraging toys and opportunities. It’s actually not uncommon for a bird to choose a person randomly. If the bird likes you and you can handle him, then he will probably make a good pet. Cockatiels can be good family pets, but sometimes they choose one person and do not want other family members to handle them. So it depends on how your boys act around the bird and if they can deal with not being able to handle it. As for noise, birds live in a noisy, flock environment. While he would need some time to settle in, most birds enjoy a noisy home. Of course this means they tend to contribute to the noise!

Thank you for asking Lafeber,

Brenda