Description

The Dominant Yellow Cheek Cockatiel is a mutation where the iconic orange cheek patch is replaced or partially covered by a strong, dominant yellow colouration. This bright feature makes the bird visually distinct while retaining the calm, gentle, and sweet-tempered personality that makes the Cockatiel such a popular companion. They are curious, playful, and thrive on social interaction. Males are particularly talented at whistling, learning complex tunes, and performing joyful displays. Their soft, melodic vocalizations make them suitable for almost any living situation, as they are not prone to the excessive screaming of larger parrots.

Tamability and Maintenance: Dominant Yellow Cheek Cockatiels are highly tamable and thrive on bonding with their human caregivers. They are a moderate maintenance pet, requiring a structured routine and daily socialization to ensure they remain happy and confident. A spacious cage with horizontal bars for climbing, a variety of perches, and safe, chewable toys are essential for their physical and mental well-being. Regular bathing opportunities are also necessary to manage their feather dust and promote healthy plumage. Their lifespan is typically 15–20 years.

Diet: The foundation of the diet should be a high-quality, nutritionally complete Cockatiel pellet formula. This must be supplemented daily with a wide array of fresh, washed vegetables (especially Vitamin A-rich types like carrots and sweet potatoes) and fresh greens. Treats like millet spray and limited seeds can be used for training, but their overall diet should be low in fat to prevent common Cockatiel health issues such as obesity and fatty liver disease.