The night is the time to rest and sleep (for most diurnal creatures). Cockatiels being diurnal, take rest after sunset. But do they need a bed to sleep in? Let us discuss.
Cockatiels do not need a bed mandatorily, but beds are often recommended for them. Owners can improve these birds’ resting and general health by giving them beds. Without a bed, cockatiels would doze off on a perch in their cage most nights.
Cockatiels enjoy being cuddled up to and are very gregarious birds. Hence, these birds will feel more secure and comfortable in a bed, promoting their health.
Now let us examine cockatiels’ sleeping arrangements in more detail. We will start by looking at why these birds require a bed to sleep in.
Why do cockatiels need beds to sleep in?
Cockatiels spend the day flying around in their cages, but at night they require a full night’s sleep.
Here are a few justifications for why cockatiels require beds in their cages.
- Cockatiels can sleep more easily and soundly, thanks to beds.
- Cockatiels use beds exclusively as a place to relax.
- Beds provide protection, solitude, and comfort for a parrot.
- Additionally, beds allow cockatiels to nap in privacy during the day.
What makes a good cockatiel bed?
Here are some considerations to make cockatiel bedding as comfy as possible:
- The bed should be covered in a sturdy yet soft material.
- There should be enough room for the bird to fit inside and some more.
- Make sure you purchase a cage with hooks and clips to hang the bed.
- The bed’s material must be warm enough to keep the bird comfortable in cold weather.
Things required for cockatiels, along with bed?
It is always advised to provide a bed for pet cockatiels. What, however, should be placed within the cage in addition to the bed?
Cockatiel owners might keep the following items inside the bird’s cage along with the bed.
- A plate of food.
- A separate water bowl.
- 2 to 4 natural branch perches for the bird to perch on.
- Bird toys made of softwood.
- A removable tray beneath the cage for collecting the bird’s feces.
- A little bungee for climbing.
- A swing for the bird.
- A grass-feeding mat.
How do cockatiels sleep?
One of the most popular queries from bird owners is how cockatiels sleep. Because the birds are kept in cages, this question is frequently asked.
Typically, cockatiels prop one leg up while sleeping off on the perch. Additionally, while they sleep, their head is tipped 180 degrees. Finally, these birds tuck their heads behind their wings for cover and warmth.
Here are some common positions that one can expect cockatiels to sleep in.
- The baby position
- The normal position
- Dozing off on both legs
- Clinging to the cage’s walls
- On the bottom of the cage
- On the owner’s shoulder
When should cockatiel be put to bed?
The late evening is the best time to put a pet cockatiel to bed. This is because these birds fly to their nest to sleep after the sun goes down in the wild. However, this is not a set time; owners may choose a different time to put their cockatiel to bed.
However, whatsoever time is selected, it must be set in stone. This will aid in the bird’s training and circadian rhythm establishment. Additionally, the time should be selected with consideration that cockatiels require at least 10 to 12 hours of sleep per day.
Should cockatiels cage be covered at night?
There is much controversy about whether or not to cover a cockatiel’s cage at night. Should this actually be done? Let us find out what the answer is.
At night, the cockatiel cage can be covered. However, according to bird specialists, this is an optional procedure.
Nevertheless, some cockatiel owners do this to allow their birds to sleep better in a dark, distraction-free environment. So, nowadays, it has become a standard practice.
If one wishes to cover the cage of their pet cockatiels, use lightweight and breathable fabric and keep one side open to prevent the bird(s) from suffocating. This will also ensure that the bird(s) has enough and a continuous supply of oxygen.
What are the benefits of covering the cockatiel’s cage?
Covering a cockatiel’s cage has become a common habit among bird owners for several reasons. So what are the advantages of such an action, then?
The top benefits of covering a cockatiel’s cage at night are listed below.
- Cockatiels are protected from night frights by the darkness.
- The bird feels more secure when the cage is covered.
- Covering the cage helps in the bird’s relaxation.
- The bird is protected from the outside world by the night cover.
- The cage can be covered to reduce the bird’s noise.
- Covering cage helps to train the bird about its sleeping time.
Do cockatiels need to be kept warm in their bed?
Cockatiels need to be kept warm in bed because they do not take cold well.
The owner can take the following steps to warm the bird’s bed.
- Keep the cage in a room with no drafts.
- The cage’s room’s windows should be sealed or closed.
- To keep the cage warmer, cover it with fabric developed especially for the purpose.
- The owner can buy a variety of heaters, like space heaters and heat lamps.
Summary
The post summarizes that cockatiels can be given a bed for greater sleep and relaxation. However, this is an optional step to be taken. Nevertheless, the bed guarantees that the bird is comfortable, safe, and secure.
