Birds--General/Cockatiels

Advertisement

Expert: - 10/13/2007


Question
I'm wondering what is wrong with my cockatiel. It is still to young to be sexed but I have researched a lot and I think its a male. I also know that cockatiels are supposed to be active and alert, but mine just sits on its perch and looks sorry for itself. It is hand reared and enjoys human contact, allowing me to stroke its chest and neck but other wise it is completely inactive. I've had it a week and I'm beginning to get extremely worried but I have become so attached I couldn't bear to take it back. Please help!!

Answer
Hi, Colin,

If you've only had this bird a week, this might be what is going on.  The bird could still be stressed out from the move to a new environment and having a new person in its life.  This bird is likely used to being with other birds, so being removed from these other birds is one reason this bird could be stressed.  Then to be moved into a new environment in your home is another stressor.  I would recommend allowing this bird more time to get used to its new surroundings and get used to you (and your family) before becoming too alarmed, as long as the bird is not showing signs of illness.  The amount of time a bird needs depends on the individual bird involved.  Don't ignore your bird, but don't expect too much too soon.  Give it some time!

Chrys

Birds--General

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Chrys Meatyard

Expertise

I`ve been raising/breeding/handfeeding/selling parrots for over 20 years (parakeets/budgies, cockatiels, 6 subspecies of conures, parrotlets, amazons, lovebirds, etc.). I've been published in "Budgies" and "Cockatiels" offered by Bow Tie Productions, and have written avian articles for publication in England. I can provide advice in raising healthy birds, handfeeding/weaning babies, some health problems (although I'm NOT an avian veterinarian), nail/beak/wing clipping, general husbandry, etc. I also have experience with racing/showing homing pigeons. I cannot diagnose specific illness over this website. If you suspect your bird is ill or if you have an emergency, contact an avian veterinarian or emergency pet clinic ASAP.

Experience

Experience: Over 20 years raising parrots and over 13 years raising pigeons. Organizations: Currently, American Racing Pigeon Union and American Federation of Aviculture. Prior member Miami Valley Bird Club, Southern Ohio Pigeon Association, National Cockatiel Society, Miami Valley Sportsman's Club, others. Publications: Monthly newsletters of bird clubs.

Publications
I've been published in "Budgies" and "Cockatiels" offered by Bow Tie Productions, and have written avian articles for publication in England.

Education/Credentials
American Federation of Aviculture, completed Level I course, Fundamentals of Aviculture. Keeping/breeding parrots and other birds for over 20 years.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.