Latin Name-Nymphicus Hollandicus
The name Cockatiel is thought to be derived from the word Cockatoo. It means Small Cockatoo, or, Small Parrot.
Classification-Order Psittaciformes, Family Psittacidae.
Characteristics-Length: 12-14 inches. Greyish Blue; Crest and Head Yellow, less bright on the female. Eyes brown, beak grey-blue, legs dark grey. The female is generally more quiet than the male.
Mutations-Pearl, Pied, Lutino, Cinnamon, Dominant and Recessive Silver,Whiteface, Emerald, Fallow, Yellow Cheek, Pastel Face, and a number of combinations.
Natural Habitat-Savannah and grassland; also urban areas.
Distribution-Central Australia; rarer along the coastal regions. Introduced to Tasmania.
Captivity-Graceful and peaceable birds that will readily breed in a roomy aviary when house in pairs. The hen lays 4-7 eggs that take 18 days to hatch. The male incubates them durring the day and then shares this duty with the hen durring the night. When young are about 4 weeks old they leave the nest for the first time, but will continue to be fed by the parents untill they are weaned at about 8-12 weeks of age. These birds will eat a good mixture of seads, fruits, and vegetables. They like to be housed as a pair or in a flock.
