Nolan Bernard

Now that your cockatiel is home, you have questions. What size cage is actually big enough? How do you stop the screaming? Why does your bird bite, and how do you tame it? Can it really learn to whistle the Andy Griffith theme song? What does that tail bobbing mean? And when should you rush to the vet?The Cockatiel Owner's Bible answers all of these questions and more. Written by Nolan Bernard, a lifelong cockatiel keeper and breeder with over forty years of experience, this book is the essential resource for anyone who wants to raise a well-adjusted, affectionate, healthy cockatiel.
Part one helps you prepare before you bring your bird home. You will learn how to choose a healthy cockatiel, spot red flags at pet stores or breeders, and decide between a male or female. You will discover the right cage size, bar spacing, and placement, and how to set up perches, toys, and accessories for physical and mental enrichment. Part two covers daily care and nutrition. You will move beyond all-seed diets and learn the importance of high-quality pellets, daily fresh vegetables, limited fruits, and safe treats.
You will understand why grit is unnecessary and potentially dangerous, how to provide clean water, and when supplements like calcium are needed. Part three is about taming, handling, and training. You will learn step-by-step methods to build trust, teach the "step up" command, and stop biting. You will decode cockatiel body language, vocalizations, and common behaviors like beak grinding, head bobbing, and feather fluffing.
You will discover how to teach your cockatiel to whistle, talk, and perform simple tricks using positive reinforcement and clicker training. Part four focuses on health and wellness. You will learn to recognize the early signs of illness, from fluffed feathers to tail bobbing, and how to use a first-aid kit. Common conditions like respiratory infections, scaly face mites, egg binding, night frights, and feather plucking are explained with clear symptoms and treatment guidance.
You will also find tips on finding an avian vet and what to expect during a checkup. Part five addresses advanced topics. Breeding cockatiels, the risks and responsibilities, and how to avoid common problems. Introducing a new bird to an existing one, including quarantine and supervised introductions. Cockatiel-proofing your home, from covering windows to eliminating toxic plants and non-stick cookware fumes.
Traveling with your cockatiel and boarding options. Caring for a senior bird, including arthritis, vision loss, and end-of-life decisions. The appendix includes a weekly care checklist, a safe vs. toxic foods chart, a common illness symptom checker, a normal droppings guide, an avian vet locator tip, and recommended products and brands. This book is a comprehensive, practical, no-nonsense guide written by someone who has lived with cockatiels for decades.
A resource you will turn to again and again, from the day you bring your bird home through its long, healthy life. A reminder that these charming birds are not beginner pets-they are intelligent, social companions deserving of respect, proper care, and decades of commitment. Whether you are a new cockatiel owner overwhelmed by conflicting advice, a family looking for a pet that can bond with children, or an experienced bird enthusiast wanting to deepen your knowledge, this book meets you where you are.
It does not demand perfection. It offers clear, compassionate guidance from someone who has made the mistakes so you do not have to.