First-time cockatiel owner — what should I know?

Hi everyone! I just brought home my first cockatiel (her name is Sunny) and I'm completely smitten. She's been with me for three days and is still a bit nervous but eating well. Any tips from experienced 'tiel owners about bonding and those first few weeks?

Tiels are amazing birds. Make sure she gets at least 4 hours of out-of-cage time once she's settled. They love shoulder time. Also watch for night frights — keep a dim nightlight near the cage.

Congratulations on Sunny! The first week is mostly about letting her settle. Don't force interaction — let her come to you. Sit near the cage, talk softly, offer millet from your fingers. Patience is everything with cockatiels.

Welcome to cockatiel parenthood — you're going to love it! Sunny will start showing you her personality once she feels safe. During the first month, focus on routine: same wake time, same meal times, same bedtime. Predictability builds trust.

Some must-know things for new 'tiel owners in Toronto: find an avian vet before you need one (not all vets see birds), keep the air clean (Teflon/PTFE cookware fumes are lethal to birds), and offer fresh veggies daily alongside her pellets.

What's Sunny's diet like right now? Feel free to post in our Diet & Nutrition section if you want specific advice on feeding schedules!

One thing nobody tells you: cockatiels are LOUD at dawn and dusk. That's completely normal — it's their flock calling behaviour. You'll learn to love it... eventually 😄