🦜 Bird · size Small
Calopsitte
Companion bird requiring interaction and stimulation.
Photo · H. Zell (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Weight
80–100 g
Size
Small
Lifespan
8–30 ans
Energy
Élevé
Maintenance
Faible
Training
Élevé
The Cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus), or simply Cockatiel, also called a Corella or Quarrion, is a species of Australian bird. It is the only species in the genus Nymphicus. Similar in size to a small pigeon, the cockatiel is often kept as a pet bird, although quite noisy. Sometimes called a parakeet, it belongs to the same family as cockatoos, and more specifically to the subfamily Nymphicinae, of which it is the sole representative.
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This small parakeet is reputed to be a good companion bird that is easy to raise. It feeds mainly on seeds (millet, sunflower, sorghum and other grains), supplemented by fruits, berries, vegetables and herbs.
Compatibility
Profile
At a glance
Energy
Élevé
Trainability
Élevé
Maintenance
Faible
Indicative profile — every animal is an individual.
⚡ Key facts in 30 seconds
L'essentiel
- 1Small size (0.08–0.1 kg), adapts to most homes.
- 2Lifespan: 8 to 30 years on average, depending on maintenance and diet.
- 3High energy level — at least 1 hour of activity daily for their wellbeing.
- 4Minimal care — little shedding, occasional brushing.
Chapter 1
Getting to know the Calopsitte
Character
Daily temperament
Birds are often perched in groups on trees. They live in flocks of approximately 50 birds, and couples, like lovebirds, remain united throughout their lives, even outside breeding periods.
Physical
Breed standard
This bird measures 30 to 35 cm in length in the wild (up to 37 to 40 cm with a large crest in captive birds from selective breeding) and weighs 80 to 100 g. Its plumage is dark anthracite gray, very dark and almost black. The crest and part of the head are yellow. Two red-orange spots mark the cheeks. The wing patch is white (spot on the wing edge). The female does not have the yellow mask, has streaks under the tail and yellow spots under the wings. Young birds resemble females. Its lifespan is estimated at about 15 years, but individuals living up to 30 years have been observed.
Living conditions
What living situation?
The Cockatiel inhabits almost all of Australia except coastal areas. It was introduced to Tasmania. This bird frequents savannas and pastures as well as urban areas.
Chapter 2
Daily life
What if you adopted your future companion?
The Calopsitte of your dreams may already be waiting in a shelter. Hundreds of calopsitte (and equally wonderful crossbreeds) are looking for a family in France — every adoption starts a new story.
Editorial recommendation — no affiliate links.
Âge
What human age for a calopsitte ?
The calculator is already set to the breed's adult size (espérance de vie 8–30 ans). Drag the slider to see the equivalence and corresponding life stage.
Equivalent human age
24years
Young adult
Growth is complete: switch to adult food and set ration to ideal weight to prevent post-sterilization weight gain.
Estimate: Proportional estimate: a reference life expectancy of 15 years, scaled to an 80-year human life. No reference veterinary table exists for this species.
These equivalences are statistical benchmarks drawn from published veterinary tables. Every animal ages at its own pace, depending on genetics, diet and care. This calculator is neither a diagnosis nor veterinary advice.
Alert
To avoid for bird
Our database lists toxic ingredients and problematic additives by species.
- saltModerate
- mistletoeLow
- caffeineLow
- bitter almondHigh
Nutrition
Feed your pet well
Cockatiels feed on seeds from various grains, such as millet seeds, sunflower seeds and many other seeds. They eat numerous fruits and vegetables of all kinds as well as some starches. In captivity, it is good to feed them with adapted veterinary pellets and a few servings of starches and vegetables (50/50) accompanied by a few premium nuts.
Calculator · daily ration
How much to give a calopsitte ?
Estimate based on the veterinary formula RER × DER, adjusted for bird. Adjust according to package recommendations.
Result
5 g
per day · 19 kcal
3 g / repas (2 par jour)
Calculation for food of 380 kcal/100g.
Appears in
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See the rankingFAQ
Frequently asked questions about Calopsitte
How long does a Cockatiel live?+
Is the Cockatiel suitable for beginners?+
What basic equipment should I plan for?+
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For more information
Sources & official links
Supplementary documentation on reference sites — breed clubs, encyclopedias, veterinarians.
The right score for your Calopsitte.
SokoScan calculates a personalized PawScore based on breed, age, weight and your pet's sensitivities. Free, instant.