People usually confused cockatoo for a cockatiel or vice versa. Their similarities and differences can, sometimes, be hard to spot on. However, it is important to differentiate one from the other to avoid any confusion. After all, each breed or specie deserves its own recognition.
In this post, I’m going to talk about the differences of cockatoo and cockatiel. So, what are we waiting for?
Here’s cockatoo vs. cockatiel and their differences.
Appearance of the birds
Both cockatoos and cockatiels are small to medium-sized parrots, and both have long, curved beaks like cockatiels do.
These are only two of the numerous ways in which their appearances are comparable.
On the other hand, there are a few significant variances between them that make it possible to differentiate one from the other.
The size of the bird is the primary distinction between cockatoos and cockatiels.
Cockatoos, in comparison to cockatiels, are often quite a bit bigger; in fact, they can be up to twice as big as an average adult bird.
In terms of their plumage, cockatoos typically have white or gray feathers with bright yellow highlights on their heads, whereas the majority of cockatiels have a grayish or brownish hue and may also feature shades of yellow.
Cockatiels, on the other hand, are known to have bright yellow highlights on their heads.
In addition, only certain species of cockatoos have crests, which allow them to display a lofty crest when they are excited or worried.
Behaviour of the birds
When it comes to behavior, cockatoos have a tendency to be more active and talkative than their smaller counterparts; they frequently create loud screaming noises and also participate in playful activities such as climbing around cages and biting on objects.
Cockatiels, on the other hand, are well-known for being tame in comparison to their larger relatives; in general, they don’t make a lot of noise other than occasional soft chirps here and there.
In terms of their level of sociability with people, both breeds have the potential to become quite attached to their owners if they are provided with the appropriate level of care.
However, due to its large size as well as its strong emotional needs – particularly when it is separated from its owner – a pet cockatoo may require more attention than the majority of people would anticipate from any other type of pet bird.
Habitat of the birds
Although the majority of both types’ populations are found in the tropical regions of Asia and Australia, certain species can also be found in South America and Africa, which contributes to the species’ vast distribution on those respective continents.
These birds survive off of naturally grown fruit trees, while others rely on feeding grounds that have been constructed by humans.
They live in woods that are located near rivers, where there is an abundance of foliage, which provides adequate food sources (i.e. bird parks).
Diet of the birds
The majority of their diets consist of seeds and fruit, but both species also love eating a wide variety of insects, the specific kinds of which depend on the location and proximity of the birds (such as grubs).
As omnivores, they require meals that are well-balanced and provide all of the necessary elements, including proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, and so on.
In addition, even if the diet is supplemented by natural foods alone, regular vitamin supplements should still be included into the diet on a consistent basis.
Life Span of the birds
The average lifespan of a wild parrot can range anywhere from 15 to 30 years, depending on the conditions of its environment; however, domesticated birds typically live significantly longer due to about double this amount of care and attention (30-60 years).
However, in general, the lifespans of both breeds tend to be shorter when compared to those of other avian species; therefore, owners need to incorporate this into their total financial plans when caring for their feathery friends.
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