Cockatiels, in their native Australia sometimes called quarrion birds. They are steadily gaining popularity as caged birds. Their availability, relative low cost, affectionate personalities and talent for mimicry recommend them as family pets.
In the wild state , cockatiels are found throughout the Australian sub-continent, traveling in pairs or small flocks. They feed on seedling grasses, fruits, berries, and to the dismay of farmers on cultivated crops. Migration of the birds is apparently linked to the supply of fresh water. Breeding generally occurs between August and September (Australian Winter) but may vary considerably according to climatic changes.
Approximately twelve inches long from graceful crest to slender tail. They are hardy birds with a life expectancy of 20 to 25 years. Cockatiels are bred in several distinct color varieties. These include grey, lutino, white , cinnamon, pied and silver. More color mutations are appearing regularly.
