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Can Cockatiels Survive in Cold Weather?

can cockatiels survive in cold weather

Can cockatiels survive in cold weather? This is a question that many people have asked, and the answer is not always clear. Cockatiels are tropical birds, so they do not do well in cold weather. We will also discuss some tips for keeping your cockatiel safe during the winter months.

Can Cockatiels Survive in Cold Weather?

Close-up Photo of Cockatiels

As winter sets in, you may be wondering whether your cockatiel can survive the cold weather. After all, cockatiels are native to Australia, where the climate is warm year-round. While cockatiels can tolerate cooler temperatures for short periods of time, they are not built to withstand prolonged exposure to cold weather. Here’s what you need to know about keeping your cockatiel safe and comfortable during the winter months.

Cockatiels and Cold Weather

Cockatiels are not suited for cold weather and should not be kept outdoors in temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature dips below 50 degrees, your pet bird will start to experience health problems. In chilly weather or extreme cold, cockatiels can suffer from frostbite, which can lead to tissue damage and even death.

If you must take your cockatiel outdoors during cold weather, make sure to dress them properly. You can purchase a bird coat or sweater that will help keep your pet warm. Cockatiels also benefit from being placed in a draft-free location out of the wind.

 

Adjustable Bird Cage Net Cover
  • Package contains: you will get 1 pieces bird cage net cover in green color, which measures approx. 118 x 15 inch/ 300 x 37 cm in circumference and width, suitable for medium and small birdcages; Not recommend to be applied for large birdcages or extra large birdcages; Please confirm whether the size is suitable for your birdcage before buying
  • Keep your house clean: the birdcage seed feather catcher can be applied for your bird cages, which can prevent the messy seeds and floating feathers from scattering on your house, keeping your house clean and tidy
  • Can be adjusted: the bird cage net cover is designed with elastic ropes on the top and the bottom, which can hold the bird cage net cover firmly in place and preventing the bird cage net cover from slipping; You can make a small knot behind the small clasp to prevent falling after tightening the rope
  • Air circulation: the birdcage nylon mesh netting is made by netted fabric, which can allow air circulation and will not block the light, providing a comfortable living place for your birds
  • Machine washable: the soft skirt guard consists of nylon mesh, which is soft and flexible, easy to wash by hand or machine and dry out quickly
Dr Cockatiel is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.

 

Signs of Hypothermia in Cockatiels

Hypothermia is a dangerous condition that occurs when a bird’s body temperature drops below 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Cockatiels are especially vulnerable to hypothermia because they have such a high surface-area-to-weight ratio. This means that they lose heat more quickly than larger birds. Signs of hypothermia include lethargy, weakness, tremors, and incoordination. If you notice any of these signs in your cockatiel, take them indoors immediately and contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.

How to Keep Your Cockatiel Warm Indoors

can cockatiels survive in cold weather

The best way to protect your cockatiel from cold temperatures is to keep them indoors during the winter months. If you have an outdoor aviary, make sure it is well-insulated and has a heat lamp to provide additional warmth if needed. You should also bring your cockatiel inside if the temperature dips below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, even if they are housed in an aviary.

Here are a few things you can do to make sure your pet birds stay warm indoors:

  1. Cover the cage: Drape a light sheet or towel over the cage at night to help trap in your cockatiel’s body heat. Your pet cockatiel can also use the towel or sheet for added warmth during the day if they feel chilly.
  2. Provide a heat source: Place your cockatiel’s cage near a space heater or other source of gentle, consistent heat. Just make sure the cage is not too close to the heat source, as this can be a fire hazard.
  3. Give your cockatiel a warm bath: Most cockatiels enjoy taking a warm bath, and it can help them stay nice and toasty. Just make sure the water is not too hot – around 105 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal.
  4. Draft-free environment: Cockatiels are sensitive to drafts, so make sure their cage is not in a direct line of airflow from a fan, vent, or open window. Cold birds are also more susceptible to respiratory infections, so a draft-free environment will help keep your cockatiel healthy as well.
  5. Air humidifiers: Low humidity can cause respiratory problems in cockatiels, so using an air humidifier can help keep your pet bird healthy and comfortable during the winter months.

 

Texsens Bird Carrier Backpack - Pet Travel Cage
  • PORTABLE BIRD TRAVEL CARRIER - Size of parrot cage 12.6"x 15.55" x 11.42"(32*39.5*29cm), Size of the stick: 12.6" x 1", Size of the tray: 12.2" x 8.3". Please check the product dimensions and measure your pet before buying.
  • BREATHABLE & PERSPECTIVE - Both sides of bird carrier are anti-bite and wear-resistant large mesh areas for great ventilation and optimal airflow, and the front is a transparent window for great scenery view while travel and hiking.
  • FABRIC SHADE COVER - Extra fabric shade to cover entire front backpack gives better privacy and blocks UV light and strong sun while hiking.
  • SPECIAL DESIGN - Extra side entrance allows your pets to get in and out better, and you can also slip the zipper to amuse your birds. Added Side Pockets can put your pet birds toys and food, as well as your personal belongings.
  • FREE UP YOUR HANDS - This bird carrier is portable by the top soft handle, also backpacking by the padded double-strap with secured chest buckle for outdoor. Suggested for Green Cheek, African grey, Sun Conure, Mini Macaws, small Cockatoos, Cockatiels, Lories, Parakeet and other small, medium birds.
Dr Cockatiel is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.

 

Final Thoughts: Can cockatiels survive in cold weather?

While cockatiels can tolerate cooler temperatures for short periods of time, they are not built to withstand prolonged exposure to cold weather. If the temperature dips below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, your pet bird will start to experience health problems.

Cockatiels are especially vulnerable to hypothermia because they have such a high surface-area-to-weight ratio. This means that they lose heat more quickly than larger birds. Signs of hypothermia include lethargy, weakness, tremors, and incoordination. If you notice any of these signs in your cockatiel, take them indoors immediately and contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.

 

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