Cockatiel vs. Conure: Which Bird Should You Choose? | BirdNerdSophie

Cockatiels or conures: which bird is right for you? Regardless of which one you choose, please do extensive research before bringing any bird home.
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Hi everyone, I'm Sophie, also known as BirdNerdSophie, and I make educational and entertaining parrot care content! I've been working professionally with animals since 2009 across different jobs including working as a zoo keeper, animal trainer, zoo presenter, animal care lecturer and farmer! I have been lucky enough to work with parrots of all sizes, including: blue and gold macaws, yellow naped Amazons and budgies! I have a First Class BSc (Hons) in Animal Behaviour and Welfare specialising in birds, and I have a growing flock of parrots who I love!
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Cockatiel Night Frights: • Cockatiel Night Fright...
Diet Guide: • What Should Feed Your ...
Teach your cockatiel to sing: • How to Teach Your Cock...
Common dangers 1: • Common Dangers for Pet...
Common dangers 2: • Common Dangers for Pet...
Starter birds: • Starter and Beginner B...
Is a rescue right for you?: • Is a Rescue Parrot Rig...
Cockatiel care guide: • Cockatiel Care Guide |...
Conure care guide: • Conure Care Guide | Ev...
#parrots #birds #cockatiel #conure

[@ornithologydude8649]

good question. i choose the "do some research for both" option.

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Nice 😁

[@muqmanor]

Wow this is so interesting to learn that cockatiels are commonly dusty!! We had a tiel for almost 12 years that never really had that dustiness, but the tiel we have currently gives off these HUGE poofs of dust every time she shakes and makes a giant mess whenever she preens! We thought that was just something about her specifically, didn't know it was a general cockatiel thing! (Although our first vet did tell us that her soft downy feathers are "abnormally long" so maybe she is just extra dusty 😂)

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Haha some of the down feathers can be very big 😂

[@rachyface618]

I always hear that too and my female isn’t the least bit dusty. Maybe because she’s still young. I’m guessing my next one will be though.

[@72shivaramk]

I am having a cockatiel for the last 6 years. He is a male and there is absolutely no dust, contrary to what people say that it is a dusty bird

[@cheekybeaksparrotrescue5738]

Both conures and cockatiels are amazing, however, I’m here for Fish & Chip 😱😜

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Haha they thank you for being here! 😁

[@shyambangalore5687]

I absolutely love your videos. You are so natural, smiling, kind and you honestly share all your knowledge. Thank you 😍

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Thank you so much! 😍

[@vee2877]

100% agree that each bird is an individual! Both my cockatiels are actually quite cuddly! Stella begs for scritches all day long and Elsie will press her little face into your cheek or ear and snuggle right up against your neck.

[@BirdNerdSophie]

That's because your little babies are precious 😍 Our boys love a scritch but they'll fight us if we do it wrong 🤣

[@vee2877]

@@BirdNerdSophie haha i bet!! The girls will tell us off if we do it wrong too. They’re such funny little dinosaurs

[@flockofrcbirds]

Night frights, yes... But they're also a chance to improve the bonding, if you're willing to interrupt your sleep and watch over the bird until it calmes down gets back into sleep. Yes, the Pickles dance👍

[@BirdNerdSophie]

That's what we do if there's a night fright - I can't go back to sleep until they're calm! Her dancing always makes me smile!

[@KD-ug4jp]

Excellent summary! Thank you!

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@jeansmuffin1289]

Amazing video . Hope you and your birds are safe

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Thank you! We are great thanks and hope you are too! 💙

[@TheParrotTeacher]

Both are amazing!

[@ornithologydude8649]

i can only imagine LOL

[@BirdNerdSophie]

We all know Pickles is your favourite!

[@ornithologydude8649]

@@BirdNerdSophie how can David choose a favourite? 😱😆

[@niya1761]

so happy i remembered to watch these types of videos. i definitely will be getting a cockatiel now because they are more chill and not super active. before this, i was SET on getting a conure lol

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Glad you enjoyed the video 😊

[@cheekybirdierichard]

Thank you

[@asseyez-vous6492]

Totally cool video! Conures or cockatiels 🤔 BOTH!

[@BirdNerdSophie]

That’s the route we went down! 😂

[@bat8559]

I recently got my first cockatiel, very happy with him/her (not sure on the sexing yet, to young)! Your channel has helped a lot! My cockatiel is literally just a pot of glue. I cannot leave him EVER during the day, or he will cry. But so sweet, literally the sweetest. Always hangs out with me during the day, always out hanging out with me during the day pretty much. Loves chilling on my shoulder all day. I didn't realize how much 2-3 onces could weigh after a long time lol.

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Thanks for watching my videos 😊 that’s so cute! Though it would be good to reach them how to play independently so they don’t get stressed if you need to go out!

[@bat8559]

@@BirdNerdSophie What's a good way to teach him to play independantly? From what I can see, he cries for me to come back for about 10 minutes before he starts settling down and playing with the toys in his cage.

[@BirdNerdSophie]

@@bat8559 foraging trays and playstands are great! The key is to only come back when he’s quiet - if you come back when he makes noise then you’ll end up reinforcing it!

[@bat8559]

@@BirdNerdSophie Alright! Slightly tight on money and don't want to dip into the emergency fees set aside for vet work, but will scour craigslist and the like for a suitable playstand and make myself some toys!

[@mariawilliams6288]

My cockatiel knew the Pink Panther Theme song, and could cat call anyone who walked by. Miss you bud.

[@BirdNerdSophie]

That’s so cute 💙

[@shonacole2124]

Thankyou very informative you know your stuff 👍🐦🦜

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Thanks for watching 😊

[@4nertxx]

That cockatiel that you were holding on the left at the start looked exactly like my cockatiel

[@ReeferNoob23]

Omg when I 1st get home from work she so excited she nips a little were working on it lol

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Haha they get so excited to see us!

[@janinerusinovich3040]

So cute they are

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Thank you 😊

[@lauratheexplorer222]

My cockateil moonpie says “who’s a pretty bird” all the time 😂😂 doesn’t sing much just wolf whistles 😂 such amazing birds

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Adorable 😍

[@birdie701]

You nailed this comparison. I have 2 of each - cockatiels and conures. The differences you described are on point! Both species have their own cages... on opposite sides of the living room. It was A LOT of work to train the conures where their space is. They were Vikings, pillaging marauders, stealing all the treats and taking over territory! lol Thanks for the interesting video!

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Glad you enjoyed! These little creatures do keep us on our toes 😅🦜

[@rachyface618]

🤣 That’s hilarious!! They sure seem to have fun little personalities!

[@mallyally123]

Omg you are my knew favourite person 🥰

[@BirdNerdSophie]

You are very sweet, thank you 😊💙

[@happyfurhammies6539]

I love them bothhhh. I think if I where to get a bird either would work for me but I think conures would be better for me (:

[@BirdNerdSophie]

They're a handful but so much fun! 😁

[@rafaelvieira5340]

I have 4 tiels since they were eggs 😆 and I love them very much . My 2 males sing all day and my girls are so sweet .

[@BirdNerdSophie]

That’s awesome 😍

[@dustinreinhardt8231]

Do the girls get real loud?

[@dg.262]

Re: Night Frieghts: My Cockatiel is 11 years old and she's only had one night freight that I know of. She did get injured and I brought her to her Avian Veterinarian to be certain that she didn't do anything serious to herself. She didn't! She was injured by hitting up against a low perch. I no longer keep toys in her cage and I found it necessary to keep only one perch in her cage @ night. I do occassionally place an unattached natural wood "platform" type perch on the actual cage floor in order for her to have something to shred up a bit and to stand on and stretch her wings out... * I realized that you are the only You-Tube educator(that I know of) who takes most the toys out of your birds cages at night. Thank-You, Sophie and your flock. Be happy and be well. 🇺🇸 🦕🐦❤

[@BirdNerdSophie]

It's so scary when they have frights but we do our best to minimise them! Yes I don't know anyone else who take the toys out at night - it requires a little effort but not much if it keeps our babies out of trouble! 💙

[@shyambangalore5687]

I've had a cockatiel for over a month now. When I was researching before I got him, I heard a lot about night freight. Luckily so far I've not encountered it..

[@donnacsuti4980]

I have had both cockatiel (quieter bite less) and conures ( smarter louder bite more more mischievous need more attention) but have a love bird ( they do nip occasionally and are very affectionate sweet like toys smart not too noisy but chirp good companion)

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Both are fab species 😊🦜

[@obama-bin-thanos7484]

Thank you for your help in my decision, I ended up going with a cockatiel, I really wanted a conure but honestly I couldn’t deal with a puberty driven divebombing and biting conure and I’m worried I’d be afraid of taking it out of the cage and it wouldn’t be fair to it. When cockatiels are aggressive they’re just fussy and beaky and don’t actively go after you and I’d be much more comfortable taking such a bird out regularly

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Cockatiels are awesome little birds 😊

[@TheFreeSpirit8]

Thank you 👍💚 I got a Cockateil and in the future gonna bring another bird.. I thought of conjure, wonder if it can work out as another cockateil.

[@BirdNerdSophie]

They often fight so I wouldn't recommend it!

[@ktpuss]

Both great! In the end we decided on a conure mainly due to (supposedly) less dusty for my partner’s allergy and I was put off by the possibility of a cockatiel’s ‘night frights’ - still sad we didn’t get one and think they’re such cheery birds! Definitely for’s and against’s with either bird but nothing you couldn’t work with.

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Absolutely! Conures are fab though, we never even considered them before Pickles and now we have 3 😂

[@ktpuss]

@@BirdNerdSophie Yes, you’re both v brave! 😂 it seems like a happy flock you’ve got there and they’re all so sweet x

[@alanahjade27]

I have to choose cockatiels! I love them both, but I think I like cockatiels just a little bit more! I really want a cockatiel, I've wanted one for a couple years now!

[@BirdNerdSophie]

They are special little creatures 😍

[@DavidMiyamoto-pe7rv]

Cockatiels are the sweetest birds. They put up with so much, especially with other birds. There pretty loud all the time. Like all day and well into the evening. It could be trying. But once I understood what he was trying to tell me , for example, the flock call. After I realized he was actually worried about me or wanting just to know where I was , I could appreciate it and now I try and enjoy it. It's amazing , that it were up to them ,they seem to want to be with you all the time . I love it when they learn or discover something on their own and they look at you and sing our song as if so proud of this. . One of my birds says my name, the tiel , I didn't teach him but I introduce myself to my birds all the time and he just chose that word. So now that's part of his flock callI to me. He also knows the names of my other birds. They all have their own names followed by a nickname followed by their different whistle names. It takes me a while to call each name . And if I call one I have to call them all. They get pretty jealous. As we speak my birds are getting upset. They think I am ignoring them. My new cockatiel is named Jean . So it's " Jean Jean my little flying machine Jean .Jean is my little fly fly , followed by his whistle " takes a while lol I actually love them.

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Ah they sound so adorable 😍

[@courtzbennett6509]

I have a female cockatiel and she doesn’t really make much noise at all or get into things she’s not meant to, she’s such a good girl I am so in love with her! But also interestingly, she is a massive cuddles! Loves being wrapped in my hand and sleeps and comes up to my face and neck and smooshes in for some cuddles, it is so cute!

[@BirdNerdSophie]

She sounds so sweet! So rewarding when they choose to cuddle with us! 💙

[@alisonquinn7143]

Love your videos! I love all birds but my cockatiels are the light of my life. They are sweet and mischievous and loving and MESSY and their cute little habits just kill me! Your birds are just adorable🥰

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Thank you! 💙 They are so cheeky and I agree, super messy! 🤣

[@ellenstrycker1239]

We have both, 2 cockatiels & 1 GCC. Your descriptions are right on for our birds except the cuddles. The cockatiels are massive cuddlers, the GCC much less. He's way too busy. And maybe a little less noisey than the conure reputation. He mostly talks as opposed to making bird noises. He likes to tell people about how he's a pretty sweet baby who's precious and wants to take a shower LOL

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Haha they sound like right characters! Our cockatiels love scritches, but they won’t hesitate to tell us if we do it wrong! That’s so cute what your GCC says 😍

[@rashasarandah1695]

Is your cockatiel a male or female?

[@ellenstrycker1239]

@@rashasarandah1695 One of each

[@rashasarandah1695]

@@ellenstrycker1239 so even your male is just as cuddly as the female? Both were hand tamed?

[@ellenstrycker1239]

@@rashasarandah1695 The male is the most cuddly, especially with me. He can spend hours cuddled up to my face. He headbutts my chin when he wants scritches. He has had health problems which required nursing, and that may have a lot to do with it. The girl prefers my husband. She likes everyone, but spends her cuddle time with him. They were both hand fed by a breeder we know

[@chrisvallance8176]

Cockatiels are brilliant fun, I don't mind the noise either.

[@BirdNerdSophie]

They are brilliant compaions!

[@melaniegilg5868]

I Love both birds I have a male cocktaiel but I want to get a male Green cheek conure. I Love the video. 😊🥰

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Thanks for watching 😊💙

[@dorkusamericanus]

Are cockatiels dusty because they’re constantly molting? I don’t mind the dust at all. I do find the molts that my parrotlet goes through make him cranky. And am curious how they are with molts and their moods. Also, with the night frights, do cockatiels need total silence in their sleep environment? We live in an apartment and that would be an issue as sometimes there are noises we can’t control. We (husband and I) use white noise machines to block noises in the environment, but can’t block all noises (sirens outside, door slams from upstairs, etc.)

[@BirdNerdSophie]

No, they have a normal moult cycle, it's just that the dust is always on their feathers so anytime they move, it goes everywhere! Each bird is different with moults, ours aren't too bad with their moods until all of the pin feathers come through on their heads! No they definitely don't need silence, we recommend getting them used to noise when resting so they can sleep through it 😊

[@dorkusamericanus]

@@BirdNerdSophie Ah yes, the pin feathers on the head seems to be the worst of it, doesn’t it? Thanks for the quick response! I should probably cut back on the white noise and music during the day. My husband says I need to also cut back on watching videos on how to be the perfect bird parront, because it’s making me a neurotic stressed out anxiety riddled mess who is snapping at everyone. I even started crying the other day saying I was so stressed out and worried that I was doing everything wrong and that I was gonna kill my birds. I guess there’s a limit to what one can do to control ones environment. I threw away all of my nonstick cookware, don’t use toxic detergents or fragrances anymore, got rid of an house plant that was possibly not bird safe, put screens on my windows, and even didn’t allow a relative to come visit because I know that she has a history of stomping, slamming doors, and treating other peoples homes like an Airbnb and then crying when confronted on it. Now he’s saying I’m going too far and am ruining relationships over my over-protectiveness of my birds. I’m torn! They didn’t choose to live in human homes and be trapped here. So I feel like I’m responsible for making their lives as perfect as possible. On the other hand, he’s right, my neurotic obsession with making their lives perfect is now causing problems and might be making their lives worse 😢

[@creaturanoctis]

Until five months ago I had four cockatiels. I've had three of them for 14 years, and one for 10 years. My experience is they are indeed incredibly dusty. My whole living room is/was one big dust pile and within a few days after dustings things off there's a very clear new layer of dust. It never ends. It kinda bothered me, but ofcourse it's just part of them so I just lived with it. The night freights on the other hand I never got used to. Even with a night lamp they kept getting these freights regularly. Sometimes I heard it while still awake, I would go downstairs and turn the lights on, calmed them down, but sometimes it even happened while I was still in the living room, just quietly watching tv, or even when I had visitors and we were just talking. All of a sudden they all started flying through the cage like mad and it always scared the shit out of me (and my visitors). I never got used to that intense sound of four pairs of clapping wings against the cage. It's kind of the sound of doom to me, haha. I had 3 females and one male. The females were all sweethearts and two of them were very cuddly. The other one was not tame but still very gentle and so incredibly funny in her mannerisms. One female never bit me. She was very considerate and aware of inflicting pain it seems. Even when I annoyed her (like when whe was sleepy at night and I still tried to pet her through the cage) she would only very softly kind of nibble my finger (that was her "bite") and then yawn afterwards like she regretted "biting" me and acted as if she was yawning all along. It was so cute. My male though, he has always been a little asshole. A cute one though, but he has always been biting me, especially when he wanted cuddles. I would cuddle him, like he asked, and them SNAP, a big bite in my cheek or neck or finger. Eventually I decided not to cuddle him anymore because it only gave a lot of tension. This worked, until all of my females died within the last five months, all of different reasons ( I miss them all so, so much). A case a very bad luck I guess. Now the male is all alone and naturally he looks at me again for cuddles because he is lonely. But he does the exact thing all over again. I try a cuddle and he bites me hard. I am not ready for new cockatiels, and him alone is not an option (not because of the biting, but just because one cockatiel is just sad) so he will go back to his breeder of 14 years ago. She has lots of other cockatiels so he will definitely not be lonely again. I am at peace with this decision. My house will be quiet, that's for sure, but maybe I will be ready for a new flock of cockatiels after a while, you never know. I would have loved to keep them for a lot more years, but fate decided otherwise. It happens..

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Thank you for sharing your story 💙

[@ger.man_]

was thinking of getting one but the night flocks really sound intense. im so sorry for your loss, sending a big hug.

[@creaturanoctis]

@@ger.man_ they can be scary, but mind you, it's not like they happen EVERY night. I think it was about once a week on average. Sometimes less. But yeah, they happen. They are cute little scaredy pants

[@duejao8875]

Hey, I really like your videooos ❤️ you're so cute... so I have three cockatiels... They live loose in a room of their own plus a very large place in the garden, which is closed. I want to buy a peach fronted conure, but I don't have cages to separate them and I wanted to breed them together. As I have a space of more or less 100m², would it be a problem? thanks in advance

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Thanks for watching 😊 i can’t say for certain- more space definitely helps with allowing birds to coexist!

[@rachyface618]

Great video, thank you! I only have experience with cockatiels, but have considered getting a conure. In your opinion, are conure personalities similar to love bird’s personalities?

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Kinda! Both are quite sassy, but conures have the potential to want to cuddle more, though every bird is an individual!

[@rachyface618]

@@BirdNerdSophie, thank you! My friend has an amazing conure which makes me want one, but then I remember all the hell she went through to get him where he is now. It’s probably safer for me to stick with my cockatiels, budgies and horses. 💜

[@lisapfuelb3547]

My cockatiel accidentally got out this weekend and I am devastated as it has been three days and no sightings. 😢 I will at some point want to get another bird and this was very helpful as I have never considered a conure.

[@BirdNerdSophie]

BirdTricks have a very informative video on what do you if your bird gets out which i think you should watch!

[@dianabrown1737]

Keep the faith. Birds are amazing. Could show up anytime. I will keep you and your bird in my thoughts. I don't know what I would do if Peanut, my cockatiel, got lost.

[@TacosYBurritos8P]

There are Facebook groups for lost birds in specific areas.

[@lisapfuelb3547]

A very huge thank you to those empathic folks that replied. I have posted on every local social media outlet available in my area. To Sophie, I get the sense I am being judged. No empathy whatsoever. You know noticing about me nor my circumstances.

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Hi Lisa, I was just trying to let you know of a helpful video link as all is not lost in trying to locate your lost cockatiel. I do sympathises with your situation fully. I get hundreds of comments every day and I was trying to keep on top of them so apologies for the quick reply. I do not judge anyone who reaches out as I’ve said on my channel many times.

[@BijuJJohn]

Thanks. I have 4 conures and 5 cockatiels. Conures rule. Cockatiels sing. But the conures like pestering the cockatiels which are nesting and I see it sometimes with a clutch of feathers in its beak. So hv to play the police! 😊

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Flock dynamics can be complicated for sure!

[@Ash43509]

I have noticed that my cockatiel is more moody than my conure is, but is gentler when he nips while my conure while hardly ever biting when angry will grab the skin and twist it on the rare occasion that she angry bites me lol. The last time that happened it was because I wouldn’t let her jump in the trash can while I was cleaning out the cages and I guess I stopped her from her fun too many times. My conure is also more stubborn and prone to troublemaking, has to be involved in everything and more likely to get jealous though my cockatiel gets jealous sometimes as well but he isn’t as assertive about it. My conure is pretty good with the other birds though she does take food from them, not aggressively but she waddles up and snatches it quickly. She doesn’t do it to my cockatiel too often because unlike the budgies he will let her know when he’s mad. He is kind of a grouch and reminds me of a cat while my conure reminds me of a flying puppy lol.

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Lol it’s so funny to see their individual personalities come through 😂😍

[@Ash43509]

@@BirdNerdSophie Yes it is, I love it even if they can be a handful lol.

[@chicken5761]

hi sophie! i have one green cheek conure who is super friendly, and im thinking about getting a rescue green cheek but id need them to live in the same cage (they can be seperate for a few months whilst getting to know each other) when i had hatched chickens he was super nice to them and never bit them, i dont want to have to rehome the bird again just because they dont get along, do you think they will be able to live in the same cage?

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Hey 😊 there’s no way of knowing in advance I’m afraid! It’s a case of working hard on different bonding techniques but being prepared to be set up for them to be housed separately if they don’t like each other!

[@explicitboyo6157]

Fun fact I couldn’t choose so I got both and Pringle and Mars are the best of friends so I’m happy I got both

[@BirdNerdSophie]

They are both amazing aren’t they 😍

[@blaneahm9891]

Hi, thanks for the video. QQ, are the female Tiels not capable of 'speaking' as compared to males or it can happen?

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Hey! It’s very rare for females to sing and speak!

[@yourselfrespect8201]

Tips on training? i have a female white faced (but her head isn’t white) I’ve tried millet but she doesn’t like scratches and she doesn’t talk much and usually I only see her on the food bowl or sitting on this one perch near the top.

[@BirdNerdSophie]

I have some videos on my channel which you might find useful on gaining trust and training to play with toys! Also WarGamingParrot has great videos on training and giving scratches! 😊

[@yourselfrespect8201]

@@BirdNerdSophie Ok! Thanks!!

[@fishy_scales]

Question. I am 14 years old and have had a green cheek a few years ago. Unfortunately, I made some mistakes and he passed. It has been perhaps 3 years since he passed. I have matured. I am drawn to green cheeks, but I am interested in cockatiels. I have school, but will be able to spend time with the bird still while doing homework. I understand that conures are louder and more mischievous, and cockatiels are calmer and more peaceful. I love the overall appearance of green cheeks, but also love the playful cockatiel. I am on the fence for both, but I am worried about night frights in cockatiels. What should I do? I will be having a sleeping cage if a cockatiel is chosen, but I need to know before venturing to view some birds to have th cage(s) set up before. Help! Cockatiel.. or conure? 🖤 Keep in mind I live on a busy corner and my conure was unbothered. Would a cockatiel get used to it?

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Hey! I can't recommend one or the other as they are so different, but I'd strongly wait until you are older - there will be lots of life changes in the future like more school, university, work, the financial responsibility, tyring to find somewhere that'll allow you to live there with birds, social activities, hobbies etc! As they are both a 20-30 year commitment, it's better to wait a little!

[@fishy_scales]

​@@BirdNerdSophie Thank you for your input! It is appreciated 🦜💗

[@bluefeathers142]

I've had cockatiels, so went for the pineapple conure, very entertaining, although nippy

[@BirdNerdSophie]

They are cheeky little beasts! 😁

[@bluefeathers142]

Our merlin pushes his boundaries, he's 22 wks old and is learning fast

[@BirdNerdSophie]

@@bluefeathers142 they do like to test the boundaries but with some consistent training and a top tier treat, they can be well behaved... most of the time 😂

[@bluefeathers142]

His treat during training are chopped walnuts, he is learning the basic commands, and flight training, it's when we stop training, he plays up.

[@tinytrekkervlogs]

Hi, just found your channel and subbed. Which parrot, bird, do you recommend please as hypoallergenic but quiet and definitely none dusty. Thanks Hx

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Hey! Thanks for much for subscribing! 💙😊 unfortunately there isn’t such a a thing as a hypoallergenic bird - they are all dusty to some degree but having an air purifier helps 😊

[@tinytrekkervlogs]

@@BirdNerdSophie Thank you. Wd u say a Pionus parrot is not so dusty ?

[@BirdNerdSophie]

@@tinytrekkervlogs they’re not as dusty as cockatiels but they are dustier than conures as they have to condition their feathers with the dust as they don’t have a preen gland like other parrots!

[@tinytrekkervlogs]

@@BirdNerdSophie Thank u xx

[@midnightskittles8032]

Hi there! Since you have bonded Pickles and Scampi do you find that they are happier? I currently have a single gcc and I dont think I can handle another anytime soon, but I'd like to eventually get another and attempt to bond them.

[@midnightskittles8032]

I also have 3 budgies so he does get some extent of bird communication. But I really want to get the same species for him.

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Hey! I think they were perfectly happy before, but it's added a new layer to things and they thrive off of each other's company, however Olive might not do so well with a companion just yet as she hasn't learned to be gentle yet!

[@midnightskittles8032]

@@BirdNerdSophie ok! I do think i keep mine as happy as I can but I think the same species companionship would be nice for him.

[@moe2377]

We have been thinking about getting a GCC. I had not heard about the over stimulation concerns before. We have 3 dogs who do their fair share of barking. Is this something the GCC would adjust to our is it likely it will cause behavioral issues? Thanks!

[@BirdNerdSophie]

It’s possibly. Some birds will adjust fine, especially over time, some will find the noise overstimulating! It’s the problem hen every bird is an individual!

[@moe2377]

@@BirdNerdSophie Ok tanks! I guess if we give it a go we will try to do a gradual introduction and obviously set clear limits eith the dogs. Great video Btw!

[@rebeccachambers4701]

I have the best kind of bird with the best kind of bites it's an umbrella cockatoo if you're into scarification it sure is the right bird for you

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Haha they are certainly a handful 😅

[@shyambangalore5687]

I have 4 budgies and a cockatiel. I absolutely love sun conure. But I don't think I can get one because I've heard that conures can be aggressive to both budgies and cocky

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Our conures don't really like our cockatiels, but every bird is an individual!

[@shyambangalore5687]

@@BirdNerdSophie Thank you for responding. I have almost made up my mind not to add to my flock. I was home for almost 2 years. With the dip in covid cases, I may be needed to get to offc soon. I'm already worried what my birds will do while I'm away at work. Offc means they'll need to be caged all day long and I return quiet late in the night. I've to figure out something

[@serenitygratton]

Can cockatiels be harness trained to go places? Like run errands together and such?

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Yes they can but it takes a lot of work!

[@melaniegilg5868]

I Love your sweet shirt where did you get it?

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Thank you! It’s from our Redbubble store - link in description 😊

[@murshidaafroz801]

Can cockatiels vommit? I know it's a silly question but I go to grandma's house sometimes in our car that is why. and does cockatiel get cold in the car? I am only 9 years old

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Yes they can and many birds get car sick. Offer them fresh ginger 30 minutes before travelling by car to prevent this!

[@rayanforexplane2918]

Hello can you tell me please what is more fun conure or cockateil

[@BirdNerdSophie]

They are both equally fun!

[@nirvool_6968]

Wanted to ask, I am getting cockatiels next week and where i live theres lots of noise pollution, sirens, car honking, and on diwali there are things like fire crackers, which are nasty. Is there any way to prepare to prepare to try and avoid a nightfright when there is lots of sound?

[@BirdNerdSophie]

I have a video on fireworks with some tips that might help 😊

[@hannahholness4990]

I have a question. If you have a family member with pollen allergies should you not get a cockatiel?

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Hi Hannah, if a family member is allergic to just pollen then it's unlikely to be an issue for them to be around cockatiels unless they have other respiratory difficulties. They could opt for an allergy test for pet dust and dander to check before getting one if they're worried!

[@DaWhiteWolffie]

What a beautiful turquoise! I love conures! I thought about getting a tiel but I was almost 100% sure I would become allergic to the dander. :( So, pinching snugglebug it is!

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Thank you! 😊 purifiers can help with the dander, no matter what bird you have!

[@candicet5973]

My birds' diet: Maya: seed addict, learning to eat sprouts, loves leafy greens Fluffy: healthy birb, fresh chop in morning, healthy seeds in evening Tiki: only handfeeding formula and nothing else I didn't know conures were more cuddly than cockatiels lol Btw, I have a question. In ur opinion how long should birds be out of the cage? Like ik that they shouldn't be out 24/7 so like what's the minimum time they should be out in ur opinion?

[@BirdNerdSophie]

I think a couple of hours minimum, but as I always say, the time our needs to be enriching 😊

[@raymondjohnregalado3361]

what kinds of leafy veg do u give them and is it fresh(uncooked) veg? tnx

[@ReeferNoob23]

Hand fed baby the way to go for a 1st timmer for sure

[@BirdNerdSophie]

They can be slightly easier to manage than a rescue!

[@TheCoinBird]

Never had a conure. But I have had a Cockatiel and a Lovebird. Combined time about 15 yrs. I feel like a Lovebird is the mix of Conure and Cockatiel in traits how funny lol. What do u think?

[@BirdNerdSophie]

I think lovebirds are definitely more similar to conures but maybe a little sassier 😂

[@anthonyharvey2977]

I have a Cockatiel she has a huge personality that I love the only thing is she doesn't like hands but otherwise she is good

[@BirdNerdSophie]

They are so much fun!

[@remasailesh4349]

This helped! Thanks a lot!(I still am getting cockatiels tho)

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Glad you liked it! Cockatiels are awesome!

[@moofie8273]

I would seriously consider a conure for a pet But at the moment I’m working on training my alexandrine parrot

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Alexandrines are amazing 🥰

[@moofie8273]

@@BirdNerdSophie i agree Very nice birds But sometimes can be aggressive when food is involved At least mine is like that Im training him to know im not gonna steal his food

[@rayanforexplane2918]

What do you think is the best of thim in terms of breeding, training and fun?

[@BirdNerdSophie]

I don’t agree with breeding, but both are equally cool so it depends on which meets your lifestyle better!

[@omarmalik1849]

Which gender of cockatiel is usually quiet and affectionate?

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Every bird is an individual so I wouldn't say either!

[@rayanforexplane2918]

I will get my first bird so i dont know what to get cockatiel or conure i want a funny bird and i want to sleep also so i dont want him to be noisy. Can you tell me what is the best for me ?

[@BirdNerdSophie]

All birds are going to be noisy unfortunately so it depends on your lifestyle!

[@beepboopsbandjam9406]

hey, so for about a year I've been trying to convert my birds to none seeded food, with little to no luck, one of my budgies will eat the chop I make for them, but the other one will go as far as starving them selves, I dont know what to do. I've asked people like elle and the birds but havent gotten a reply and Im looking for help, my budgies also hate my hand even tho they know me and will do anything in there power to stay away, I know they're small birds, but is there a way to hand tame them? I've tried over 6 months now using rewards and why yes, they have flown to my hand when I had goodies, they never really wilingly fly to me to say hi. I'd appreciate any type of help I can get. or better yet, In the future I might try getting a cockiteil, and I have heard its a little easier to tame a bigger bird especially ones that are less flghty, and maybe the cockatiel could help teach them that theirs nothing to worry about?

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Hey! There’s a lot to unpick here so you may benefit from a consultation with us at Best Behaved Birds! Don’t cut out seed completely as some seed is actually healthy! Have you seen my videos on how to get your bird to eat veggies, and my trust video? Also cockatiels won’t necessarily be easier to tame, they’re all individuals with different personalities 😊

[@HaZeRBLX]

Should i get a friendly cinnamon dilute conure or 2 friendly cockatiels one is a white faced and the other is a cinnamon pearl for a small amount less.. Which one???

[@BirdNerdSophie]

I think it’s always best to get birds in pairs where possible!

[@HaZeRBLX]

@@BirdNerdSophie alright thank you!

[@umlambert8586]

can you place two green cheeked in the same cage?

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Yes but if they didn’t grow up together, you’ll have to do extensive bonding work and training to make sure they like each other first!

[@user-ib7rv8bh9k]

😍😍ohhhhhh

[@BirdNerdSophie]

😊💙

[@nabillablabi4754]

Why my female Cockatiel don't want to mate with my male Cockatiel? Could I do something to help in this regard?

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Hi there, I don't encourage people to allow their birds to breed I'm afraid so I can't offer any advice!

[@tanishkaverma1539]

Hii sophie, i have a little question, that is my budgies started hoping and perch on my fingers but only when i hold some food, and when i place my finger near him without food, he just ignore me and flew away. What did i do? Advice me plz! By the way you're ♡VIDEOS are too good! #love 💗💗

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Hey! Thanks so much for watching! I think as you continue to bond with your budgies, they'll be less likely to fly off! The food gives him a reason to come over, the finger is not as exciting haha! But as you continue to build your relationship, he will be more likely to come to enjoy your company without food!

[@tanishkaverma1539]

Thanks a lot, but as a bird owner you can feel the happiness when a bird come and sits on you're hand. 😄😄

[@BirdNerdSophie]

@@tanishkaverma1539 absolutely! 😍

[@nothingness390]

Hi Sophie! Ive heard a lot about night frights in cockatiels, but no one actually mentions on how to calm your bird down when they have a night fright? Should you take them out of the cage or leave them in? Also what if there are 2 birds in the Same cage, how would that play out? Thank you!

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Hey! I think I mentioned in my video but keep them in the cage, turn a light on and sit with them, talking to them quietly until they calm down. If you take them out, there’s a chance they’ll spook and crash into walls! Two birds will still spook it the tips still apply!

[@nothingness390]

@@BirdNerdSophie ok tysm!!

[@ElizabethGlasby]

Please PLEASE help, im not sure if i should get a cockateil or a conure or other small parrot. I am really worried about cockatiel dust, im not allergic its just im scared it will get everywhere, thats all im worried about! I just really want a loving parrot

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Hey! They do produce a lot of dust but you can get an air purifier to help with it!

[@anchidatanjeungrungrueng2823]

Do green cheeks conure scream often?

[@BirdNerdSophie]

They can be noisy yes!

[@vanessafarber3043]

Hi Sophie, what are you giving Olive as a treat in this video please. Quakers are also bully's to other birds ect. Can't get my rescue quaker to eat anything, he'll only eat sunflower seeds, grrrrr. As i said he is a rescue, such a bad diet. Do you have any tips please. I've tried loads, veg, a few seeds, pellets ect, nope he just throws them, just like child ha ha xx

[@supasiniselvaraja3422]

Maybe you can try yo give it in the morning that's the time they are the most hungry and maybe he will try a veggie?? Or you can try to eat it in front of your birds theyll get curious and maybe he ll try one. If it didn't work i recommend you to go on youtube i search a youtube channel named ElleAndTheBirds she is just a amazing bird owner and she alot videos too I hope it helps!!😊

[@vanessafarber3043]

@@supasiniselvaraja3422 Thank you, i will try, also look her up. As i said, he is a rescue, my birds eat all their veg. This poor boy is 4yrs, don't think he's ever see veg, bless him xx

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Hi Vanessa, you could try baking Harrisons Bird Bread and baking vegetables into it - it's a great way to convert birds on to veg! Or mash some sweet potato and mix in some seed and roll into little balls!

[@vanessafarber3043]

@@BirdNerdSophie thats a great idea. I'll make some, my tiel will love it. Fingers xd my rescue will try it. Thank you so much again. You are so helpful and i love both Davids and your video's xx

[@BirdNerdSophie]

@@vanessafarber3043 you are most welcome! 💙

[@Danielguzman1]

I got an conure

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Congrats!

[@ReeferNoob23]

Running water am when I talk on the phone mine wants to compete or she just hates it loud so calm an quite name of game

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Haha yes they do get excited when we talk!

[@leemalik2354]

is a Honeywell air purifier safe for a cockatiel?

[@BirdNerdSophie]

It's worth checking the individual model number you are looking at to make sure it doesn't have an ioniser!

[@elomelo4209]

Hlw..my baby bird cocaktail is 1.5 months.....now he eats 4 times in a day 15 ml...so is this right or wrong?and should I give him bath or not? please let me know

[@BirdNerdSophie]

I’m afraid I have no experience in hand raising birds!

[@loveistheanswer5924]

So it's a big NoGo to just get one bird? Cockatiel or conures?

[@BirdNerdSophie]

I would say if you can, two is definitely better- there’s only so much of their social needs we can meet as humans!

[@carriebuchda3277]

Has anyone noticed a difference in personality between male and female conures?

[@BirdNerdSophie]

We’ve got 6 conures, and there isn’t a noticeable difference between males and females! 😊

[@snowandlemon439]

I like budgies lol

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Me too! When we get budgies I’ll make a similar video!

[@OfficialBirdBro]

Hi friend How are you 🤩

[@BirdNerdSophie]

I am good thanks! Hope you are too!

[@nature_rabbits5370]

I am Autistic and I was wondering which might be the best?

[@BirdNerdSophie]

It’s hard to say! It depends on if you can manage the loud noises, mess etc!

[@nature_rabbits5370]

@@BirdNerdSophie I have been able to deal with the noise of a verity of bird species calling and/or screaming at the same time but I also startle easily unfortunately. The mess I can also handle! I have two beautiful Flemish giant rabbits and they can be extremely messy!

[@omarmalik1849]

Hiya, which breed of cockatiel is prone to diseases?

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Totally depends on their environment and breeding history but often lutinos are more prone to issues!

[@kayman1390]

@@BirdNerdSophie Is that true for all lutino birds (I have a budgie) and what type/s of diseases to look out for? Thank you.

[@BirdNerdSophie]

@@kayman1390 it’s mostly cockatiels - there’s a disease called lutino cockatiel syndrome

[@alyaomg4721]

Coktiel team

[@Mapmoyle]

G.day from downunder. My Quarians love to watch what you are doing and will happily sit on my shoulder while vacuuming or doing chores. They get excited when they get to explore cupboards and the china cabinet. Pie (the male chats away to himself and sings most of the day. Pie loves to answer my smartphone and talk and whistle to my Mum - he also mimics the rung tone and taps on the screen - often opening apps that I didn't want open. Pie (Cuddlepie) and his sibling Pot (Snugglepot) also love chewing on my phone and business cards. Cockatiels, like many Australian parrots love to forage on the ground so I provide them with a shallow tray or dish with shell grits with a few seeds and other treats scattered through it. Here is a short video of them playing and singing. kzbin.info/www/bejne/m6Olp6Kijbp8r7c

[@BirdNerdSophie]

They sound absolutely adorable 😍

[@Mapmoyle]

@@BirdNerdSophie Yup when their not being too naughty

[@asseyez-vous6492]

Want a cuddly bird? Try a cockatoo 👍🏻

[@BirdNerdSophie]

Lol they’re crazy! I definitely don’t recommend them 😂

[@angsfeatheredfriends]

@@BirdNerdSophie honestly, when people say they want a cuddly bird, I tell them to get a cat or dog lol

[@clover-il7tf]

@@angsfeatheredfriends Me, allergic to both: 😢

[@angsfeatheredfriends]

@@clover-il7tf How about a Degu? They are crazy cuddly.

[@ElizabethGlasby]

@@angsfeatheredfriends cats are definitely not cuddly. well, my one was not. hehe

[@frankmiyamoto4226]

I have birds. There free to roam all day. There amazing. Question. I find that "bird people "are a bit neurotic and " on the down low a bit controlling. Perhaps more neurotic than the birds.And not necessarily talented with people. I find them a bit funny. No?

[@BirdNerdSophie]

I think all people are a bit weird to be honest 😂

[@shanthisomasundaram5266]

Conures too friendly. I have a conure

[@BirdNerdSophie]

They’re awesome 😊

[@treasuretrovel3816]

When you say this and that is "not a reason to get a bird" I beg to differ For example, getting a male vs female Cockatiel to try to have a bird who mimics tunes is absolutely one of the reasons to select this specific pet. Of course, with the understanding that any particular individual might not be a good signer. Getting a male vs. female Green Cheek because one hopes to have pet bird that says some words is absolutely part of the equation.

[@BirdNerdSophie]

My point is that getting a bird just because it can sing shouldn’t be the main reason for getting them, because so much goes in to keeping these birds. Any many people have unrealistic expectations about how well some cockatiels can sing, for example my two boys sing three songs out of tune which might disappoint someone who is expecting a perfect singing bird like they see on social media! I want to deter people from getting cockatiels just because they can sing. Also both male and female green cheeked conures can talk, it’s all down to the individual ability.