Description

The Dominant Silver Cockatiel is a sought-after mutation defined by its pale, cool-grey or silver body feathering, a result of a genetic change that dilutes the melanin. This gives the bird an elegant, understated beauty. Despite the colour variation, this mutation retains the sweet, gentle, and outgoing personality characteristic of the species. Dominant Silvers are known for being calm, affectionate companions that are easily tamed. They are highly responsive to their owners, readily learning to “step up” and enjoying physical contact, especially head scratches. Their pleasant whistles and chattering are non-disruptive, making them an excellent choice for first-time bird owners and families.

Tamability and Maintenance: Dominant Silver Cockatiels are highly tamable and thrive on daily social interaction. They are a moderate maintenance pet, requiring a stable routine and consistent socialization to remain well-adjusted. They need a spacious cage that allows for flight and a rotation of stimulating toys to satisfy their moderate activity level. As dusty birds (producing feather dust), they benefit from regular misting or bathing opportunities to keep their plumage in top condition. They are a long-term companion, typically living 15–20 years.

Diet: A healthy diet should be built on a foundation of quality Cockatiel pellets (the majority of their intake). This pelleted base must be supplemented daily with a variety of fresh, chopped vegetables (yellow squash, green beans, leafy greens) and small amounts of fruit. They should always have access to clean, fresh water and a calcium source like cuttlebone. Seeds should only be used as limited, healthy treats to prevent the common health issue of obesity caused by high-fat seed-only diets.