There are lots of pets to choose from, but if you choose to get a cockatiel, there are some things to consider. For instance, can you provide lots of attention to it? Cockatiels are very social animals and demand constant attention. Cockatiels also have a tendency to bond with one person over others and will tend to stay with and be possessive of that person. However, if you still want a cockatiel, but do not have that much time to play with it, then you should get a second cockatiel and see if they bond. If two cockatiels are in nearby cages or the same cage they will grow close and receive most of the attention they need. As a side effect, however, the cockatiels will be less likely to play with you as much.
Another part about choosing cockatiels is their lifespan. They can live on average 12-15 years, and if they receive plenty of exercise, good diet, attention, etc. they can live up to 20 or in some cases 30 years. You need to carefully consider whether you will be able to take care of the cockatiel for such a long time. Will the length of time be too demanding?
If you are worried about animal poaching and cockatiels being taken from the wild, then you will be happy to know that the majority of cockatiels are not. All you really need to do is find a reputable breeder or find one that was hand raised when a baby. Hand raised cockatiels are cockatiels that came from two tamed cockatiels and trained by experienced breeders at a very young age. As a result, when you buy a hand raised cockatiel, they will be used to people and a better bird for companionship. If you choose a non-trained cockatiel, then check the person who you are buying it from to make sure they are reputable. Untrained cockatiels will not bond right away with anyone and can be very defensive, often biting and hissing at you until you train them.
Cockatiels are a fun and loving bird but knowing some basic facts before you buy one can help keep cockatiels and other pets out of animal shelters. Birds, like most other pets, are a big responsibility that requires time and energy.
