Cockatiels and parakeets, is it possible to put these two species together? Parakeets are sociable birds that enjoy being together. The introduction of a new bird, such as the cockatiel, might cause some discomfort among those who were there first, especially if the flock consists of only one or two birds, so you might need to put them in separate cages.
Cockatiels and Parakeets: Can They Be Kept Together in One Cage?
Although it might not seem possible, cockatiels and parakeets can live together in the same cage. In fact, cockatiels usually take to other species pretty quickly; so cohabiting with parakeets should be relatively easy. That being said, there are a few precautions you’ll need to take and things you’ll need to do gradually to avoid any changes that could stress your birds out unnecessarily.
How to House Cockatiels and Parakeets Together
Place the newcomer in quarantine
Each new bird (whether a parakeet or a cockatiel) must go through quarantine to verify that they are healthy and because the birds need time to get acquainted with one another. The new parakeet should be kept in an individual cage near the other birds for the first four weeks. They will thus have an opportunity to get acquainted with each other.
Make the first physical contact
This is a good place to start. Keep it in this configuration until the birds get used to each other. The first physical contact without bars must occur inside the cage where the birds are brought together. If this is their home, make some changes to the interior features and equipment to make it distinctive and non- adversary. If you want your parakeet or cockatiel to eat alone, put bowls on both sides of the cage.
If your birds hiss or puff their wings while you’re away, don’t be alarmed; this is completely natural as long as they don’t act violently. Once the hierarchy is in place, things should calm down. In addition, you may give your birds millet: this treat to eat in groups will help them form a bond and forget their quarrels. If your birds fight a lot, you may need to separate them into different cages and try again a week later. The larger the cage, the easier it will be to establish.
Make sure you have enough space
It is crucial to provide every bird with its own space if you want to house more than two birds together. This allows the bird to escape from noise and activity levels, as well as giving it room to fly and explore all areas of the cage without interruption. Additionally, a place for the bird to retreat is necessary in case another bird becomes bothersome; this can be something like a high perch or box in a quiet corner. All of these factors require extra space, so outdoor aviaries are ideal living conditions for your feathered friends.
Respect the specific dietary needs of both species
Furthermore, you must take into account the varying diets of your birds. Parakeets have their own nutritional needs, just like cockatiels do. All cage dwellers deserve to be content andfed properly. Therefore, you’ll need o keep a keen eye on them so that greedy bird behavior–like one stealing another’s food–doesn’t go unnoticed.
Also, the cockatiel has to eat a lot of oily seeds like sunflower seed. Although an occasional little tasting won’t harm your parakeet, you will need to make sure she does not eat too much and become obese or develop liver problems.
Monitor your birds’ behavior
Parakeets are clever birds, but their cleverness has two sides: it makes them fascinating pets, but also produces each one unique. As a result, a parakeet’s personality will have an impact on the overall cage balance.
What Birds Can Live With Parakeets?
Not only do parakeets get along with other parrot species, other small birds, but they also enjoy the company of cockatiels and lorikeets. Zebra finches are yet another bird that typically gets along well with parakeets.
Can Parakeets and Cockatiels Eat the Same Food?
Cockatiels can be fed with parakeet food, as long as it has the proper nutritional balance for birds. These birds are from the parrot family and need a similar diet. Parakeets and cockatiels require a seed-based diet, which implies that it is safe for them to consume cockatiel food.
Cockatiels and Parakeets Final Thoughts
The worst-case scenario is for a timid parakeet to live alongside a more dominant cockatiel and if it’s breeding season. In such circumstances, you will have no choice but to intervene because of the general welfare of the cage’s occupants. This is why it’s essential to maintain free flight cage on hand in case cohabitation proves impossible. Keep in mind that these cohabitation difficulties are uncommon in practice, but it’s advisable to be prepared for everything.