Cockatiel

The cockatiel, also known as the weiro or quarrion, is a small parrot native to Australia and cherished as a pet worldwide. It belongs to the cockatoo family but has its own distinctive genus, making it relatively straightforward to breed. In the realm of pet birds, cockatiels are second in popularity only to budgerigars.

These delightful birds are the sole members of the genus Nymphicus and are the smallest in the Cacatuidae family. They thrive in Australia’s wetlands, scrublands, and bushlands. Initially named Psittacus hollandicus, they were later reclassified into their own genus, Nymphicus, inspired by early European observers who admired their beauty. Recent molecular studies have placed them in the subfamily Nymphicinae, underscoring their close biological ties to cockatoos. They share various features with cockatoos, such as an erectile crest, a gallbladder, powder down, and facial feathers.

One of the most distinctive traits of cockatiels is their expressive crest, which reflects their mood. They also have long tail feathers and exhibit sexual dimorphism, with males typically displaying brighter colors. These birds are quite vocal and can be trained to sing and even mimic speech. In captivity, there are 22 recognized color mutations of cockatiels.

In the wild, cockatiels prefer arid or semi-arid regions near water. They are nomadic and often travel in pairs or small flocks. With proper care, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, cockatiels can live between 16 to 25 years in captivity, with some even reaching up to 32 years.