Reptile & Amphibian Forums

hi just wondering if anyone had suggestion on how to tame the 2 cockatiels i adopted. don't know how old they are. right know im leaving them alone for a week. but talking to them. ones a male and singing andy grifith song. the other is a female i think and she does not even sing. any help would be greatful. ke42596k

Do you know where the cockatiels you adopted came from? Were they someone's pets? or did they come from an outdoor aviary? This info will determine how easy they are to tame or train. If they were previously handled on a regular basis, then you shouldn't have much trouble getting them to warm up to you as cockatiels are really social birds, but if they haven't been handled much or at all then you may be fighting a lost cause....once they are 'wild' it's hard to tame or train them. I like to use treats to get my 'wild' birds to warm up to me. You may have to try several things before you find something they like...Cheetos or Doritos work well for me, but don't give them a lot. You can also try fruits and veggies as they are much healthier for your new friends. I first start by just offering a chip through the cage without trying to put my hand in thier 'house'. After a while if they start to come to get it without hesitation I try offering it through an open cage door. Sometimes this process only takes a few weeks before the bird is jumping on my finger to get the treat, but sometimes it doesn't work at all. One of my favorite birds loves for me to scratch her head through the cage bars, but still after two years does not like me to put my hand in her cage! Good luck with your new birds and I hope this helps.

the cockatiels were just flying around this person bedroom. the boy i think went on the person hand and sang andy griffith song. but today the girl started to whistle a little. going to get there wings clip tomorrow and nail done. thank for your info. ke42596k