The Cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus) is an Australian cockatoo, living in the native bush but also a favourite pet. It is the smallest of the cockatoo family, the Cacatuidae.
The Cockatiel has grey feathers with white patches on the wings. The male has a yellow or white face, while the female has a grey face. Both the male and the female have a round orange patch on their ears, which looks like rosy cheeks. It has a crest that rises or lies flat. It has long tail feathers.
Male (front) and Female (back) Cockatiel
Cockatiel
Cockatiel
The Cockatiel can grow to 30 centimetres (12 inches) tall. Other cockatoos are larger at about 60 centimetres (23 inches) tall.
The Cockatiel is found in arid or semi-arid areas near water. It is nomadic, moving to where water is available. It is seen in pairs or small flocks.
The Cockatiel is relatively vocal, and can be taught to repeat words.
Cockatiels can live to 16-25 years.
[Location of photographs: Adelaide, South Australia and Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan]
Photographer: Martina Nicolls
Martina Nicolls: SIMILAR BUT DIFFERENT IN THE ANIMAL KINGDOM