Cockatiels, with their expressive crests and endearing personalities, have long held a beloved place in the world of pet birds. In 2024, data suggests Cockatiel popularity continues to grow—not just anecdotally, but statistically. Recent findings from the American Pet Products Association (APPA) and insights from the Pet Food Industry confirm that cockatiels are thriving in the pet world, reflecting broader trends in how and why people choose feathered companions.
Cockatiel Popularity on the Rise: A Significant Growth in Bird Ownership
According to the Bird, Small Animal & Horse Owner Insight Report by the APPA, small bird ownership in the United States has jumped from 45% in 2018 to an impressive 63% in 2024. While the report includes a variety of small bird species, cockatiels are consistently ranked among the most popular choices—second only to parakeets in many households.
This growth can be attributed to a mix of factors. During the pandemic, many individuals turned to pet companionship to combat isolation. While dogs and cats saw spikes in adoption, birds—especially those with sociable and trainable traits like cockatiels—also surged in popularity. Even as pandemic restrictions eased, the appeal of cockatiels remained strong.
These birds offer a unique blend of companionship, entertainment, and relatively low-maintenance care, making them ideal for apartment dwellers, families, and even retirees. They are intelligent, capable of mimicking sounds and speech, and thrive on human interaction—traits that make them stand out in the avian pet market.
Supply Challenges and Market Trends
Despite growing demand, cockatiel availability has seen some limitations. As noted in an article by PetfoodIndustry.com, supply chain disruptions and changes in breeding practices have affected the availability of certain small birds, including cockatiels. Breeders and pet stores have reported longer waiting lists and reduced inventory as they navigate new regulations and market fluctuations.
This has not dampened enthusiasm, however. The pet bird segment continues to perform well economically, with specialized products for cockatiels—such as fortified seed blends, toys, and enrichment accessories—showing strong sales growth. Pet retailers are increasingly investing in bird-specific product lines, highlighting cockatiels in their marketing due to their popularity and human-like social behaviors.
Moreover, there has been a growing trend in holistic care and wellness for birds. Owners are becoming more informed about nutrition, behavioral enrichment, and proper cage sizing, which has increased demand for premium products and avian veterinary services. Cockatiels, often seen as a gateway species for first-time bird owners, are at the center of this evolving pet care landscape.
Why Cockatiels?
Cockatiels offer a range of benefits that make them highly desirable as pets. First and foremost, they are extremely social birds. When hand-raised and socialized properly, cockatiels bond closely with their humans. They can be taught to whistle tunes, perform tricks, and respond to simple cues, creating an interactive relationship that’s deeply rewarding for their caretakers.
Their size is also a plus—large enough to have personality and presence, yet small enough to manage in a modest home. They’re known for their gentle temperament and relative ease of care, especially when compared to larger parrots that require more space, stimulation, and noise tolerance.
Cockatiels are also appreciated for their emotional intelligence. They often mirror the moods of their owners and thrive on routine, affection, and interaction. This emotional connection is part of what makes them particularly well-suited for homes where they’ll receive regular attention.
The Future of Cockatiel Ownership
As we move further into 2025, experts suggest the rise in cockatiel ownership is likely to continue. Social media has also played a role in this upward trend, with platforms like TikTok and Instagram filled with videos of cockatiels dancing, whistling, and engaging in quirky behaviors. These platforms not only increase awareness but also educate potential owners about bird care, bonding, and enrichment.
Additionally, bird adoption and rescue organizations are becoming more prominent, offering a second chance for cockatiels who may have been surrendered due to changes in their owners’ lives. These rescue efforts are helping to promote responsible ownership and provide accessible options for those seeking avian companionship.
With growing interest comes greater responsibility. Industry leaders and avian experts encourage prospective owners to thoroughly research cockatiel care, considering factors like lifespan (15–20 years on average), dietary needs, mental stimulation, and social interaction requirements.
What Cockatiel Popularity Could Look Like Five Years from Now
Given the steady rise in bird ownership and the continued fascination with intelligent, interactive pets, Cockatiel popularity is likely to climb even higher by 2030. As more people seek alternatives to traditional pets—due to space constraints, lifestyle shifts, or personal preferences—cockatiels are well-positioned to meet those needs.
Technological advancements in pet care may also play a role. We can expect smarter bird toys, improved avian health-monitoring devices, and expanded access to online training resources and virtual vet consultations. These innovations will make it easier than ever to care for cockatiels properly, even for first-time owners.
Furthermore, education around responsible bird breeding, adoption, and ethical care is likely to expand through social media, rescue organizations, and pet industry outreach. This may lead to more informed ownership and better living conditions for companion birds.
If current trends continue, we may even see cockatiels outpace parakeets in popularity within the U.S. pet bird market. With their engaging personalities, manageable care needs, and ability to emotionally bond with humans, cockatiels are clearly more than just a passing trend—they’re shaping up to be the future of pet bird ownership.
Cockatiels are more than just charming birds—they’re complex, intelligent creatures capable of deep connection with their human companions. The recent statistics from the APPA report and Pet Food Industry analysis confirm what many bird lovers already know: cockatiels are in high demand and only gaining in popularity.
As awareness of proper avian care continues to spread and as the market responds with better resources and products, the future looks bright for cockatiels and the people who love them. Whether you’re a seasoned bird owner or a curious first-timer, the cockatiel is a pet that continues to inspire joy, curiosity, and connection.
