Cockatiel
Smallest cockatoo, native to Australia, popular companion parrot.
Shreya.Bhopal · CC BY-SA 4.0
The cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus), also known as the weero/weiro or quarrion, is a species of small- to medium-sized parrot and the smallest member of the cockatoo family (Cacatuidae). Native to Australia, it is the sole member of the genus Nymphicus. Cockatiels are widely recognized for their expressive crests, long tail feathers, and sociable, playful nature, and their strong affinity for human interaction has made them among the most commonly kept companion parrots worldwide and one of the five most popular pet bird species.
- Estimated US households keeping them
- 1–2 million (APPA survey range)
- Number of established colour mutations i
- 15–18
Lore & Background
Originally described by Johann Friedrich Gmelin in 1788. Its genus name reflects the experience of early European travellers who thought the birds were so beautiful that they named them after mythical nymphs. The specific name hollandicus refers to New Holland, a historical name for Australia. Its biological relationships were long uncertain; it was sometimes classified among the broad-tailed parrots, but molecular studies have placed it in the monotypic subfamily Nymphicinae within the cockatoo family.
Reader's Guide
The cockatiel is significant as the smallest member of the cockatoo family and one of the most popular pet bird species worldwide, with an estimated 4.8 million US households keeping them. However, insufficient knowledge of their care contributes to one of the highest surrender rates among pet bird species. Proper care requires regular social interaction, a nutritionally appropriate diet, toy-based enrichment, annual veterinary check-ups, perches of varying diameters, UV exposure, and about two hours of daily out-of-cage time. Due to many owners' unfamiliarity with these requirements, many cockatiels suffer chronic malnutrition and behavioral problems and are often relinquished to shelters within approximately 1.5 years of adoption. The cockatiel is also notable for its distinctive erectile crest, which expresses the animal's emotional state, and for being the only member of its genus. Its biological classification as a genuine member of Cacatuidae is supported by shared features including the erectile crest, gallbladder, powder down, and facial feathers covering the sides of the beak, as well as at least one documented hybrid with a galah.
Did You Know?
- The cockatiel is the smallest member of the cockatoo family, measuring 30 to 33 cm in length.
- Its genus name Nymphicus comes from early European travellers who named them after mythical nymphs.
- Cockatiels are native to Australia and favour wetlands, scrublands, and bushlands.
- There are 15–18 cockatiel colour mutations established in aviculture worldwide.
Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Cockatiel?
The cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus) is a small-to-medium parrot native to Australia, also called a weero or quarrion in some regions. It is the only species in the genus Nymphicus.
How does the Cockatiel fit into the cockatoo family?
It holds the distinction of being the smallest member of the Cacatuidae family, yet it still sports the signature crest that defines cockatoos. No other species shares its genus, making it taxonomically unique among its relatives.
How popular is the Cockatiel as a pet bird in the US?
APPA survey data estimates that roughly one to two million American households keep a cockatiel. That popularity places it squarely among the five most common pet bird species in the country.
How many established colour mutations does the Cockatiel have?
Breeders have developed between fifteen and eighteen recognized colour mutations of the species. This variety is a major draw for enthusiasts who collect or show different plumage types.
Why are Cockatiels considered such good companion birds?
Their expressive crests, playful temperament, and strong drive for human interaction make them exceptionally engaging in a home setting. That social nature is the primary reason they rank among the most widely kept parrots worldwide.
More in Parrots And Songbirds 1-17
Spotted an error? Know more?
This is a living reference — every entry is fact-audited, and reader corrections feed straight into our audit queue. Suggest an edit · See this site's audit record