A cockatiel’s unique sounds and beautiful personality can make it a rewarding experience. They are expressive birds that can be very persuasive. It’s easy for you to believe that your two communication styles will be unique.
However, cockatiels can make certain sounds no matter who their owner is. The guide below will help you understand what each sound means and provide examples.
1. The Scream
This one is easy to understand. Cockatiels can sometimes make a high-pitched, shrill sound that is hard to miss.
This is the entire point of it. It is designed to draw attention and birds use it when they are sad, lonely, or scared. Cockatiels are social animals and can shout to let other birds know if a predator is nearby or alert them to any other problems they might be experiencing.
What does it mean to your cockatiel when it screams? It’s not clear what it means, but you can figure that out for yourself. As you get to know your bird, you will be able to identify what is bothering them.
2. The Whistle
Although the whistle is more melodious than screams, it can be annoying when it goes on for long periods of time. Imagine sharing a cubicle together with someone who is always whistling the theme of “The Bridge on the River Kwai” and you’ll get an idea of how it feels to spend time with a whistling bird.
Whistling, also known as singing, is usually performed by males seeking a mate. You might hear your bird whistling to express their feelings of Amor, or perhaps they were simply catching a glimpse at themselves in the mirror and liking what they saw.
You don’t have to deal with the whistling of your cockatiel. It is best to bring home a female.
3. The Mimic
Although it is not something that many people realize, cockatiels can reproduce the human voice accurately. Some can even be taught words and phrases they can repeat at will.
However, just because your cockatiel speaks to you does not mean that they are actually communicating with you. They are simply reproducing the sounds you make.
While males are more likely than females to mimic sounds, some women do notice it. Talk slowly and use a lower pitch to get your bird to imitate you. They will then repeat the words back at a higher frequency.
Be patient. You may need to practice daily and persevere for your cockatiel to imitate you.
4. The Hiss
Cockatiels, like snakes, cats, and hissing insects, can hiss when they are threatened or angry. The cockatiel’s hiss is not as loud and intimidating as other hisses you might hear.
However, you should not take it lightly. These little birds can pack quite a punch. The hiss usually signals a strong bite. If they feel the need to, they can easily tear the skin. Give them respect. Let them calm down for a while before you attempt to help them again.
5. The Chirp
A cockatiel’s chirping sounds are one of their favorite sounds. When they are happy or content, they chirp and will often chirp at people to let them know they are part of their flock.
Chirping, unlike many other sounds, isn’t loud or annoying. One exception is when they start chirping at dawn, in which case it might be worth moving them to another room.
When they feel inquisitive, they often chirp. They may chirp at something they find new, even if they don’t feel threatened.
You can also talk to them and chirp back. It’s something they love, it’s what wild birds would do.
6. Make a contact call
Cockatiels love to be social. Cockatiels love to check on their flock members, but it can be difficult if they are blind.
This is where the contact phone comes in. It’s a simple way for the animals to check in with their loved ones. Many times, they return it in kind until they can be together again. It’s like sending someone a message to let them know you are thinking of them.
However, don’t let them down. If your cockatiel calls or whistles for you whenever you go out of the room, it could be a sign that they are worried about you. They may panic if they don’t get a response. They can become very stressed by this behavior, so make sure you talk to them or whistle back to let them know you are okay.
7. The Beak Grind
Purring in cats is similar to the way that beak grinding works in dogs. Cockatiels often grind their beaks while being petted. It’s also a common behavior before they go to bed.
The beak grinding is often accompanied by fanning facial feathers above the mouth, allowing feathers to become fluffy and ruffled.
What is Your Cockatiel Telling You?
Understanding the meaning of common cockatiel sounds is an excellent way to get to know your bird. However, keep in mind that each bird is unique and has their own communication style.
You’ll get to know your bird better and understand their different sounds. Soon, you will be fluent in English chirps and whistles.
What do the various cockatiel noises mean?
Some call it a “squawk,” while others call it a “screech,” but the cockatiel “script” (a scream with a whistle) is a common cockatiel vocalization. Cockatiels will screech to attract attention when they are frightened, terrified, lonely, or excited.
How can you tell if a cockatiel is under stress?
Biting, hissing, lunging, and excessive shrieking are all warning indicators. Fear – While not all birds are overtly friendly, if your bird becomes frightened and dislikes being touched, this might indicate that your feathery friend is anxious.
How often should you give your cockatiel a bath?
Many birds love bathing every day, while others bathe just on occasion. Birds should be encouraged to wash regularly since their feathers and skin will appear healthier if they do. Begin by giving your bird a wash once or twice a week.
Should you keep your cockatiel covered at night?
Bird cages do not need to be covered at night. When you have a bird that will not stop laying eggs, it is often necessary to limit daylight. However, for the time being, there is no need to cover their cage at night. Cockatiels benefit from a nightlight as well, as some are prone to night frights.
Cockatiels are terrified of the dark?
Cockatiels appear to be more susceptible to “night frights” than any other bird species. By “night terror,” I mean that they are easily startled or disturbed amid the darkness and silence of the night.
How can I tell if my cockatiel is depressed?
Here are some of the most prevalent indications of stress and unhappiness in pet birds: 1 – Biting… 2 – Screaming… 3 – Reduced vocalization… 4 – Picking feathers. 5 – Self-mutilation. 6 – Stereotypical actions… 7 – Reduced appetite.
How does a sad bird appear?
Fluffed-up feathers are one of the symptoms of a sad bird. Appetite loss. Droppings have changed.
When cockatiels are pleased, what noises do they make?
Cockatiels generate bright and lovely noises when they are pleased, such as chirping, whistling, singing, chatting, beak grinding, mumbling, and imitation sounds. Unhappy cockatiel noises, on the other hand, are louder and, in extreme situations, repeating. Hissing, shouting, squawking, chirping, and contact calls are examples.
Cockatiels recognize their owners in what way?
Cockatiels have excellent memory, eyesight, and hearing. They can quickly identify their owners by sight and sound. They will monitor your behavior patterns and appearance to separate you from others and respond with special actions tailored to you.