Expert: Cynthia Kiesewetter - 10/26/2008

Question
QUESTION: My two adult male cockatiels have recently started to feed each other. Is this normal? It seems like it is one sided. one is always feeding the other. not both ways. Is this normal or should I have concern.
any info would be appreciated
Thank you

ANSWER: Laura,

Are you certain that you have two male cockatiels?  It is very possible that you have a male and a female.  The male is generally the one who will try to feed and preen the female.  

Do you have pictures of the two birds, or can you describe their coloring?

Thanks,

Cindy

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I am pretty sure both are males both are grey with white wings,both have yellow heads and bright orange cheeks. They have been together for about 2 months now and they just started doing this. Is it safe. I mean will the one that is feeding all the time become under weight? I will try to send pics.
Yhanks so much
Laura

Answer
Laura,

First, I'm sorry that it took me so long to answer your question.  I had a series of family issues which took me away from the computer for a while.

It is possible that your cockatiels are pied, which would cause them to also have yellow heads, gray bodies and orange cheeks...even if they are female.  Yes, it is safe, and one could lose weight, but cockatiels generally eat enough to be able to regurgitate to their mate.  If it bothers you, though, you might want to separate them into cages that are side by side.

Good luck,

Cindy