I suppose they make pretty good pets, but you kind of feel guilty, keeping a bird in a cage, after awhile.

I think a cockatiel makes a great first pet for a child (over 6 years old). They are much sweater than parakeets and can learn a lot of words and commands. They can also entertain themselves for a while during the day, so when the child is at school the cockatiel won't be to board. The one thing that I have noticed about cockatiels is that they get diseases very easy. Also, people don't seem to realize that they need big cages and not the "starter kits" that Petco and Petsmart try to sell off to ignorant pet owners. They also need a lot of toys. As with any bird, it is best to rotate toys in the cage. This allows the bird to have a new experience when in its cage, and also not to get board. They also MUST HAVE fresh fruits and vegetables. Seed is not a stable diet for a bird. Pellets are a better diet, but some birds do not take to them, you therefore must supplement the diet with fresh fruits and veggies. They love corn, peas, carrots, apples, peaches, green beans, pinto beans...basically all beans. Do not feed to much brocally though, as it bines their calcium (its ok like ones or twice a week, but thats all). Again, a cockatiel is a great pet, one just must make sure they know how to take care of one. (P.S. PLEASE do NOT buy your bird at Petco or Petsmart. They WILL be unhealthy and most employees to not know a thing about taking care of any bird)

Mine is mildy retarded, but he's kinda fun.

Love birds, but the only problem I see with them is over how picky they are as pets. Birds usually stick to liking only one person (and I'm usually not that person haha).

These little ausralian natives are adoreable! They are relatives of parrots, so they can learn a few words. They can live for years and are sometimes loud, but when they're tame they are the cuddliest thing around.

my cockatiel, blossom, is the sweetest animal i have ever had. believe me, i've had dogs, cats, guinea pigs, rats, chinchillas, gerbils etc... but the cockatiel has truly stolen my heart. he is about 15 years old now, and hasn't lost his lovable disposition. he is such an adorable cuddle bunny. i love him.