Cockatiels bring joy to pet parents, and of course, pet parents want their cockatiels to stay happy. But how do we know this? Well, I decided to do some research on all the bird’s behaviors that suggest a happy cockatiel; here’s what I found:
You will know if your cockatiel is happy because it will:
- have a good appetite
- socialize with its companions
- is energetic
- will greet you
- is relaxed
- sleep in the open
- not be hesitant of your touch
Being a pet parent, it is essential to understand how your cockatiel is feeling so that you can respond appropriately.
Listed below are some signs that will help you understand whether your cockatiel is happy or not or what you can do about it.
Signs Of A Happy Cockatiel
By now, you must know that cockatiels are not easy to take care of. Your bird’s requirements will vary as they grow old, but their love and friendship will make all this effort worthwhile.
Several signs tell you your bird is living a happy life.
Your Bird Has A Good Appetite
Cockatiels are active birds and spend considerable time munching or snacking.
If your cockatiel has a healthy appetite, it is a sign that your bird is happy. However, you must understand that there is a difference between a healthy appetite and an over-eating.
On the other hand, if your bird seems to have lost interest in its food, it could be a sign of depression, anxiety, illness, or discomfort.
If your bird possesses her usual enthusiasm for food, it is a definite sign that things are good to go.
Your Bird Socializes With Its Companions
Most companies love the company of one another. In the wild, cockatiels live in small groups together.
If your cockatiel is unhappy with its cage mates, it will probably keep its distance. In these cases, you will also find your bird grinding its beak in anger.
Therefore, being thoughtful while introducing new birds to your cockatiel’s cage is essential.
Your Bird Is Energetic
Cockatiels are energetic birds. They are very busy little creatures.
Although each cockatiel is different and unique in its ways, a happy bird will not sit in the corner of its cage or slog through the day with little or no energy.
A happy bird will be a curious bird. It will love to play, explore, fly, and move around the cage.
Cockatiels also enjoy toys, swings, and perches that stimulate them mentally and physically as long as they feel safe.
Your Bird Greets You
It can be frustrating if your bird hides as soon as it comes near its cage. This mostly happens when you get yourself a new bird.
Sometimes, new birds never approach their owners. Even if they do, it is just in their nature to want just to move around.
New cockatiels can even take a few months to relax and feel confident around you.
Your Bird Is Relaxed
A happy cockatiel will always be relaxed. Even around people, they are familiar with, it is super easy for birds to become scared. If your cockatiel acts relaxed, he is pleased.
You can tell your cockatiel is relaxed by looking at his body mannerisms.
Your Bird Sleeps In The Open
Being prey animals, cockatiels tend to sleep in the corner of their cage or hideouts. They love hidey spots and cozy spaces. These covered places make them feel safe and protected.
If your cockatiel is sleeping out in the open, it is a definite sign that it feels protected and happy.
Your Cockatiel Is Not Hesitant Of Your Touch
Escaping is your cockatiel’s first line of defense. An anxious or unhappy bird will always try to get away from you.
If he is not hesitant of your touch and lets you hold him without fear, it is a sign that he is happy.
Unless it is a matter of medical checkup or life or death, you can surely use treats to win over your bird instead of force.
You must not let your bird do something it doesn’t want to do, especially if the bird is a new addition to your household.
Eventually, your bird will come around. It just takes time.
What Sounds Do Cockatiels Make When They Are Happy?
Being an extremely social animal, it also means that your cockatiel has a way of passing essential messages, especially to you when it is happy.
One common indication that the bird is happy is through clear vocal communication.
A happy bird always tends to make happy chirping noises. These chirps are soft and sweet, and their way of assuring happiness.
Also, cockatiels often make a melodious whistling sound. The whistling sound is quite distinctive, and you will be able to tell that your bird is happy.
Besides this, a happy bird often mimics the familiar sounds it hears. This sound includes doorbells, ringtones, music, and even words.
Repeating these sounds is generally a sign of happiness and a way to get attention.
How To Keep Your Cockatiel Happy?
It is not difficult to keep your cockatiels happy.
Below are a few tips and tricks that will help you keep your cockatiel healthy and happy. Although this list is not exclusive, it is a good starter.
The first thing to do is to get your bird a cage that suits them the best. This will help your cockatiel in a comfortable stay.
Many pet cockatiels stay stressed, depressed, or unhappy because the environment they are leaving is inadequate in many ways.
The next thing is to ensure that your bird gets adequate mental and physical stimulation. If your bird is bored, it will stress them out like anything.
Therefore, it is essential to provide your birds with toys, swings, and perches in its cage.
Furthermore, it is crucial to provide your cockatiel with a nutritious diet. Appropriate food will always keep your bird happy.
It is said that one of the quickest ways to a cockatiel’s heart is through its stomach. However, never end up overfeeding them.
In addition, you must try your best to build a bond with your bird. It will take time, patience, and consistency to win over a bird’s heart. Therefore, you must not hurry.
With time, you will see that your birds are more comfortable and happy around you.
