SmokinDVM

[slcraiders]

DVM,

We have a Cockatiel. She appeared on my shoulders about 5 years ago out of nowhere while I was bbq’ing on my deck one summer evening. She is a beautiful and loyal bird. A couple of questions: How long does this species of bird live on average? –and- We are about to move next week. Is there anything we can do to reduce any stress brought on to the bird during this transition?

[SmokinDVM]

DVM,

We have a Cockatiel. She appeared on my shoulders about 5 years ago out of nowhere while I was bbq’ing on my deck one summer evening. She is a beautiful and loyal bird. A couple of questions: How long does this species of bird live on average? –and- We are about to move next week. Is there anything we can do to reduce any stress brought on to the bird during this transition?

Cockatiels average 10-14 years although they have been known to live into their 20's. IIRC, the oldest known was in it's early 30's.

I don't work with Avians much anymore, but I believe that most of these guys travel pretty well. I would suggest you use their cage, or a travel carrier can be purchased from a pet store. Remove any toys or swings, and secure the cage/carrier in with a seatbelt or other strap.

[cigarsarge]

I was recently blessed with a Cockatiel. He resides in my computer room. He is now a faithful reader of CS. Baby, the Cockatiel sits on my shoulder as I surf the net...Too cool.

[SmokinDVM]

When I was in Vet. School, I volunteered in the Avian nursery. We would hand raise several types of psittacines, and once weaned and well socialized, we would send them on to the people who purchased them.
We had several birds that were donated by people who had bought them, not realizing how long they really live, only to have to will them to the school when they died. We had a 50year old African Grey that we recieved that way, sweetest old bird.

The first Clinic I worked at, after Vet school, had a couple that would board their 2 Cockatoos with us. Those 2 birds would argue back and forth for hours, in their owners voices and rather colorful language. Most entertaining birds I've ever seen.