Cockatiel Birds
Understanding Your Cockatiel Birds
Cockatiel birds are a fascinating species of animal, offering a complete understanding of their emotional and physical states by the movement of their feathers and crests. There are few things that you will miss if you know how to read the body language of your cockatiel birds, and it may be quite a bit easier than you thought it would be. The crest on the top of the birds’ head moves on a constant basis, giving you a free view into his mindset. Their curiosity and intelligence levels are a thing of great amusement to us humans, but we must be prepared to meet the needs of our cockatiel birds when they aren’t feeling confident and healthy.
It is natural for cockatiel birds to fluff their feathers out, as this raises and holds in their body temperatures. This is something done primarily during the evening and nighttime hours while they are sound asleep. If you find that your bird is remaining fluffed for extended periods of time during the day, this may be a sign that he is ailing in some way. A vet may help you to determine if your bird is sick, or if there are temperature and air purity issues within your home that need to be addressed. Cockatiel birds that are healthy and happy tend to remain very busy throughout the daylight hours, taking short little naps after meals and preening rituals. If your bird has fallen rather inactive, you will want to be sure that you have him checked out. Small problems can turn into life threatening ones when left unchecked.
And now, back to the crest on the heads of cockatiel birds. A forthright, erect crest denotes both curiosity and excitement. Your bird is receptive to what’s going on when his crest is forward, and he is showing no fear or apprehension. This is what you want to see during training, and if his crest is forward, or even halfway back, when your finger is introduced you should give yourself a pat on the back. You have gained his trust, which is the most important element to his training and happiness. Common with young babies and with abused or neglected adult cockatiel birds, a slicked back crest accompanied by hissing and/or rocking back in forth is a sign that your pet is very afraid or angry. Be sure that all other animals and humans that he is unfamiliar with are not present when you work with him.
If your cockatiel birds lower their heads for you, this is a sign of complete acceptance, trust, and endearment. He is asking you to preen him, and this is something that pairs and groups of birds do with one another for bonding and survival. He may wish to return the favor by sitting on your shoulder and preening your hair, so let him show you his appreciation. If he feels this secure, you have made a life long friend and companion of your feathered pet.