Are you a new cockatiel owner? Have you been thinking of bringing another bird into your home and wondering what bird to keep with your cockatiel? There is no need to worry, as we are going to look closely at what birds can be kept with a cockatiel.
The following birds can get along well with cockatiels:
1. Another Cockatiel
In most cases, the best companion bird for a cockatiel is another cockatiel. They speak the same language and eat the same food, hence, the birds are more likely to bond and co-exist peacefully if given a conducive environment.
So, to answer the question as to what is the best pair for cockatiels, The answer is simply another cockatiel.
2. Budgies
Can a cockatiel live with a budgie?
Yes, a cockatiel can live with a budgie. Both birds are natives of the same region, thus having similar care needs, and neither breed is aggressive.
Although they can live together, they should not share a cage due to the difference in their personalities. Budgies are more assertive and dominant, while cockatiels are calm and passive but sensitive.
Will a Cockatiel Fight a Budgie?
Budgies will often fight the cockatiel, especially during the breeding season. Due to the sensitive nature of cockatiels, they too can end up in occasional fights with budgies.
3. Parrotlet
Parrots are a bit aggressive, and they easily become territorial over spaces such as their cage and breeding site.
They can live comfortably with the cockatiel in the same household, provided they are given plenty of space.
In some cases, the two birds can bond if provided with the right living conditions.
4. Bourke Parrots
A Bourke parrot is of similar size to a cockatiel. These parrots have easy-going personalities and can be kept with cockatiels, budgies, and other similar-sized parrots.
They are active and playful and can live with cockatiels in a household or outdoor aviary.
5. Doves
Doves are naturally calm, but they tend to get a bit aggressive around other bird species. With plenty of food and space, doves can co-exist with cockatiels. Always keep doves and cockatiels in a large aviary.
6. Rosella Parakeets
Rosella parakeets are easygoing and calm birds. The parakeets can get along with the cockatiels but will not form companionship as they prefer to interact with birds of their kind.
So, can rosellas live with cockatiels? Yes, rosella parakeets can comfortably live with cockatiels.
7. Conures
Can cockatiels live with conures?
Yes, cockatiels can live with conures. They can easily co-exist within the same household, provided they are given enough space, food, and attention.
They should be introduced slowly, as they have different personalities. Conures are more active and vocal, while cockatiels are docile and quiet.
Due to their playful personalities, the two birds can easily bond.
8. Finches
Can cockatiels live with finches?
Yes, cockatiels can live with finches but can’t become friends as they prefer to associate with their kind.
Zebra finches tend to get along well with cockatiels. This is because cockatiels can’t bully small birds. Always ensure that you have birds of the same gender in a cage, as it helps to reduce aggression and behavioral differences.
9. Love Birds
When young, lovebirds get along well with cockatiels. They have distinct temperaments and personalities, with love birds being affectionate while cockatiels are easy-going. Hence, they can easily live together.
As they get older, lovebirds become aggressive and can attack cockatiels with their strong beaks. Small spaces with little food will also cause fights as parrots become territorial. Thus, ensure that you have a large aviary or keep your birds in different cages.
So, do cockatiels and lovebirds get along?
Yes, cockatiels and lovebirds can get along well. However, this can be possible when the lovebirds are young. As they get older, housing them together should be avoided.
However, lovebirds can form strong bonds with cockatiels if there is no other lovebird around.
10. Quails
Quails and cockatiels can be kept in the same aviary but will rarely interact. As both birds are naturally calm and non-aggressive, they can live together without fighting.
The care requirements for quails are quite different from those of cockatiels, hence, you will need a spacious aviary for your two birds to be comfortable.
Can I Put Another Bird With My Cockatiel?
Yes, you can put another bird with your cockatiel as long as you have a proper housing plan. The birds to be housed together should be nearly the same size to avoid intimidation and bullying.
The following factors will influence how your birds co-exist:
1. Size of Your Birds
Birds that are similar in size get along well with those that are larger or smaller than them.
It’s not good to house a cockatiel with a larger, more assertive bird, as the cockatiel will not be comfortable.
2. Territory
Use a larger cage to house your birds to avoid territorial issues. Also, introduce your birds to neutral territory to prevent aggression.
3. Age Difference
Introduce your birds at a younger age. They will remain friends with each other as they become adults.
4. Jealousy
Your cockatiel may become jealous of the newcomer if you interact more with it. Give equal care and attention to both birds.
5. Temperament
Birds have different personalities. Take your time to understand your bird’s preferences before putting them together to avoid conflicts, as their interactions will depend entirely on their personalities.
Can Birds and Cockatiels Safely Be in the Same Room Together?
Yes, birds and cockatiels can be tamed in the same room. However, when letting the two species interact, you must:
- Always supervise them.
- Ensure you keep them in a well-ventilated house to prevent infections.
- Use a larger cage to house them.
- Observe any aggressive, territorial, or defensive behavior.
- Separate the birds if they start showing signs of stress or discomfort.
Challenges Faced When Housing Two Species of Birds
1. Housing
You need a large space or two cages to house the two birds, which can be costly.
2. Diet Differences
Different species have different requirements, and it can be difficult to meet their needs. Hence, ensure that both your birds get a well-balanced diet by using separate feeding stations.
3. Bullying
The two birds are likely to bully each other due to the difference in their personalities. Provide your birds with separate housing to prevent fights.
Do Cockatiels Need Another Bird?
Yes, cockatiels need a companion. While they can live alone, they prefer having company since, when alone, they will become bored easily.
To choose a companion for your bird, you should keep in mind the cockatiel’s size and temperament.
Can Cockatiels Breed With Other Birds?
Yes, cockatiels can breed with other birds in the cockatoo family. It is possible to cross-breed a cockatiel with a Galahad cockatoo or a corella with a cockatiel.
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