Cockatiel Night Fright

[Ray P]

If you have a cockatiel than you know about Night fright.

If your cockatiel is having a night fright it is best to turn on a light and talk to it softly to calm

it down.

 

The top 8 causes for cockatiel Night Fright

1. Nocturnal animals and insects flitting about in the darkness

2. A draft or sudden stream of cool air

3. Cats and dogs moving around and suddenly meowing or barking close by.

4. Shadows moving over the cage or aviary.

5. Thunder and lightning.

6. Fire works.

7. Flashing lights, Such those from car headlights.

8. Member of the household coming in late after everyone else is in bed.

 

9. There are also reports of cockatiels thrashing about in their cage just moments before an earthquake.

 

 

8 Cockatiel Night Fright Prevention Tips

1. Do not "plunge" cockatiels into complete darkness at night, provied them with a dimmed lighting.

2. Give cockatiels some food or a regular treat 30 minutes before the lights are dimmed. It gives them something to look foward to at the end of the evening, rather than dread the approach of night.

3. Do not cover the cage completely with a black-out cloth. A covering on 3 sides and partially over the top can provide security but still enables them to view their surroundings.

4. A baby monitor placed near to the cage and linked to the bedroom can give you peace of mind by alerting you to a problem quickly so that you can attend to your cockatiel immediately and defuse the situation.

5. Do not move the cockatiels cage to a unfamiliar location at night.

6. If your cockatiel is being introduced to a new cage or toy, do it at the beginning of the day, so it has maximum daylight hours to become accustomed to it

7. Ensure that the curtains in the room are properly closed so the light from passing cars don`t spook your pet bird.

8. Ensure that your cockatiel is getting adequate sleep and is housed in a peaceful environment.

Edited August 6, 2012 by Ray P

[judygram]

I've never known my tiel to have a night fright but its good to know what to do in case it ever does happen, thanks Ray.

[CLB]

I had no idea. I have learned something new today for sure!

[Talon]

Wow, never knew that. I do cover my cockatiels cage on 3 sides with a lite blue sheet. He doesn't seem to like being covered, but onc it's done, he seems to enjoy the privacy. Thanks for the info.