WILD COCKATIELS

COCKATIEL MANIA

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Wild Cockatiels

Cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus) are native only to Australia where they are found largely in arid or semi-arid country, but always near water. Largely nomadic, the species will move to where food and water is available They are typically seen in pairs or small flocks. Sometimes hundreds will flock around a single such body of water. To farmers' dismay, they often eat cultivated crops. They are absent from the most fertile southwest and southeast corners of the country, the deepest Western Australia deserts, and Cape York Peninsula. They are the only Cockatoo species which can sometimes reproduce in the end of their first year. Their average lifespan is 15-20 years with some pet cockatiels living to 30-35 years.

Most wild cockatiels are found in groups and prefer living in dead tree branches. They are found near rivers, streams and creeks and their movement as flocks is controlled by the availability of water. I believe they use the streams for both bathing and drinking since most cockatiels love baths.

Wild cockatiels are ground feeders and normally feed on seeds, grasses, leaves and bark (from trees, bushes, and other vegetation). Additionally, cockatiels will eat grubs and different insects.

At some time in the future, I hope to be able to offer eco-tours to visit places in Australia where wild cockatiels can be seen.