ExploreBird

Cockatiel

Nymphicus hollandicus

The Cockatiel is a small parrot with a cheerful crest on its head. They are playful and love to sing and whistle!

Habitat: Grasslands and forests

Appearance

The Cockatiel has a sleek grey body with distinctive white patches on its wings and a prominent, often bright yellow, crest on its head. Most striking are the vibrant orange cheek patches, contrasting with their generally muted body feathers and long, pointed tail.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderPsittaciformesFamilyPsittacidaeGenusNymphicus

Cockatiel

Interesting facts

Cockatiels are the smallest members of the cockatoo family, making them unique little parrots!

Cockatiels can rotate their heads almost 180 degrees to keep a sharp lookout for danger!

Male Cockatiels often sing to their mates and share duties, helping incubate eggs.

Their scientific name, Nymphicus hollandicus, means 'Nymph of New Holland' — Australia!

Special abilities

Cockatiel has a mobile crest that helps them communicate mood, raising it when excited or lowering it when relaxed.

Cockatiel can crack tough seeds because of their strong, hooked beak that helps them access nutritious food.

Cockatiel has keen hearing that helps them detect approaching predators and locate flock members.

Cockatiel can fly long distances to find water and food, helping them survive in unpredictable environments.

Measurements & details

Length: 30-33 cm
Wingspan: 30-45 cm
Weight: 0.08-0.12 kg
Lifespan: 10-14 years
Top Speed: 50 km/h
Clutch Size: 4-7
Incubation: 18-21 days

Diet & Feeding

Cockatiels mainly feast on seeds, but also munch on fruits and berries.

Primary Foods

grass seeds
acacia seeds
small fruits
berries
leaf buds

Foraging Method

Foraging

Ecological connections

eaten by

Wedge-tailed Eagle

Aquila audax

A large raptor that preys on adult cockatiels.

eaten by

Carpet Python

Morelia spilota

Snakes can ambush cockatiel chicks and eggs in nests.

depends on

Spinifex Grass

Triodia spinifex

Cockatiels primarily feed on its seeds in arid regions.

depends on

Mulga

Acacia aneura

They forage for seeds and find shelter in these trees.

Traits

Wildlife

Step into the incredible world of wild animals and plants living freely in nature. From tiny insects to towering trees, it's all part of the wild wonders around us!

Feathered

These are animals covered in soft, beautiful feathers that help them fly, stay warm, and even attract mates! Think of all the amazing birds you know.

Crested

Spot birds and other creatures with a special tuft or plume of feathers or skin on their heads! It's like a fancy crown that makes them stand out.

Social

Discover creatures that love to live and work together! These animals form groups, helping each other find food, stay safe, and raise their young.

Omnivorous

Meet versatile eaters who enjoy a wide variety of foods, from plants to other animals, allowing them to adapt to many different environments. They're nature's flexible diners!