Atmosphere and Temperature

     Two very important factors. Cockatiels are native to Australia, so, to ensure an atmosphere suitable for these animals, it has been observed that a temperature range of 65 - 80 degrees is most suitable.

     We mist our cockatiels with cool, distilled water, twice daily, as well as keep a small container of water inside of their cage that they can use as a bird bath.  This technique is beneficial in a number of ways.  It helps tremendously in keeping the dander, and dust, that cockatiels shed so profusely, down to a bare minimum.  It assists in keeping the birds cool on the more hot days of the seasons.  And it imitates their natural environment, resulting in much happier birds.  

     Also concerning the atmosphere your bird will be staying in, SMOKING is a strict prohibition. Cockatiels cannot consume tobacco, so it's safe to say they cannot inhale its exhaust product. Second hand smoke can develop and contribute to major health complications over a period of time, including anything from poor feather quality and hazards such as "blood feathers" on a higher reoccurring basis to respitory diseases, among other unforeseen problems. Avoid smoking around your birds please, and if you find it absolutely nessicary to do so out of convenience, be sure the area surrounding your bird(s) is well circulated and kept fresh as possible.

                          EQUIPMENT/"BIRD GEAR"

     It is essential you have certain available items at the ready for any type of situation pertaining to the well-being of your bird(s). Some of the more basic and standard objects to have within your possession would be commodities such as a cage with sufficient space according to the quantity of birds you may have, feeding and watering containers, things of this nature. 

• Gloves are an example of sensible gear to have at hand (no pun intended!), especially if the cockatiel(s) is still unfamiliar with being handled by people.
• Another good "item" to possess in a care-takers equipment arsenal would be a well trusted Avian Veterinarian, for any number of reasons.
• Corn starch would be another, the purpose for which will be discussed further in the next section.
• If you plan to be clipping your pet's wings, scissors/shears would be appropriate for the task.
• A spray bottle cleaned appropriately or store bought with a mist setting is also recommended for bathing.
• Cockatiels love toys! There are any number of toys to give to your birds, yet they seem to be partial to bright and shiny type objects. Keep this in mind, yet be careful for things that may be poisonous, such as zinc in processed metals or toxic paints and chemicals.

                                BLOOD FEATHERS

     This area covers actions to take in the event of a "blood feather" crisis. Blood feathers are feathers connected to a bird which contain major arteries and veins. An example of some blood feathers would be the main wing feathers required for flight for instance. For one reason or another a bird might accidently pull one of these feathers right out, whether it was a mishap such as being caught in jagged material, or even another bird or themselves outright pulling them free though it is rare for cockatiels to partake in such a violent act if they were raised properly.

     Whatever the reason may be, if this happens to your bird, first of all, do not panic. This is the last thing your bird needs at that time. Carefully pick up your bird in a secure manner (gloves are recommended for this procedure) and locate the area of concern while the bird is constrained from further harming themselves. Try your best to calm the bird. When the situation is assessed and the source of bleeding is identified, next, obtain corn starch if you have it available.

     If you do not have corn starch, the best you could immediately do is apply pressure on the afflicted region firmly yet in such a way you do not break the birds hollow bones thus furthering the damage already in effect until bleeding stops. If in fact you do have corn starch, as gently as possible, apply a moderate amount of the corn starch onto the wound. This will assist in clotting the exposure until it can be handled accordingly.

    Now, depending on whether not the feather is still in place or otherwise, you can do one of several things. If the feather is already absent, then none of the following is necessary and applying the starch is all that is required.

    If you're up for it (which is unadvised unless absolutely confidant in proceeding to partake in this action) and the feather still remains, you can manually take a pair of tweezers and remove the individual feather to prevent further complications. In so doing, again apply corn starch to the wound after this is done. Be sure when everything is done to watch for further bleeding. If bleeding continues, firm pressure on the wound is again advised and contacting your vet would be the best idea at that point.