Cockatiels (Nymphicus Hollandicus)

Order: Psittaciformes
Conservation Status: Least Concern (IUCN Red List)
Origin: Widespread throughout Australia
Habitat: Arid, semi-arid areas and open woodland
Diet: Primarily seeds, but may occasionally eat freshly-harvested pots, nuts and insects
Size (from beak to tail): 29-33cm
Weight: 80-100g
Threats: Mainly predation from raptors as well as ground predators. Habitat loss and invasive species can impact their populations as well.

The cockatiels is a small, crested, social Australian bird and the smallest member of the cockatoo family. They live in flocks that can range from small groups to gatherings of thousands of birds, especially around limited water sources. These monogamous birds are nomadic, travelling long distances to find food and to locate water sources in Australia's dry grasslands and woodlands. They are very social, forming strong bonds with their companions, pairing for life. Like all cockatoos, they are very vocal, having a wide array of different calls that they use to communicate to members of their flock. They are talented whistlers and can learn to mimic short phrases and tunes, with males being more talkative as they use these sounds and calls to attract females. Download our fact file to find out more!

Did you Know? Cockatiels were discovered by Europeans in Australia in 1770, becoming popular in the 1900s during the Australian gold rush.