You can buy a cockatiel anywhere from $75 to $300 for very rare color mutations. A hand-fed, weaned bird of common color mutations (grays, pieds, pearls, etc.) from a breeder usually costs around $100 to $150. Birds from pet shops cost up to $100.
Cockatiels are very easily available birds, both from breeders and pet shops. The breeder is usually, but not always the preferable choice, depending on what breeders and pet shops you have to choose from! The ideal bird is a hand-fed bird that is just weaned and is obviously friendly, wanting to step up onto your hand, etc.
Actually, parent-fed or untamed cockatiels generally aren’t all that hard to tame when compared with many birds; however, I would not consider this a project for a beginner, especially considering sweet hand feds are easily available and not really that much more expensive.
Other Costs of Owning a Cockatiel
There are a variety of costs associated with owning a cockatiel. Some of the main expenses you should be prepared for include:
- Cage: A cage suitable for a cockatiel should be at least 24 inches wide, 24 inches deep, and 24 inches high. A good quality cage can cost anywhere from $50 to $200 or more.
- Food: You will need to provide your cockatiel with a healthy diet, which typically includes a mix of seeds, pellets, and fresh fruits and vegetables. The cost of food will vary depending on where you purchase it, but you can expect to spend around $20 to $30 per month on food.
- Accessories: You will need to provide your cockatiel with perches, toys, and other accessories to keep them entertained and mentally stimulated. These can range in price from a few dollars to several hundred dollars.
- Vet care: Regular check-ups and any needed medical treatment can add up over time. It is important to be prepared for unexpected vet expenses.
- Grooming: Cockatiels require regular grooming, which includes nail trimming, wing trimming, and feather dusting. You can either DIY or take it to a professional.
- Time and attention: Cockatiels are social birds and require a lot of time and attention from their owners. Be prepared to spend a significant amount of time each day interacting with your cockatiel and keeping its cage clean.
It’s worth noting that costs for owning any pet can vary depending on location, and some of the costs listed above will be incurred one-time, while others will be ongoing expenses.