worried my bird is lonely

[anjel]

hi all, i have a cocketiel and she is 11 months old..i really would love to put another cocketiel in with her as i know they like the company but worry about her reaction as she hasn't seen her own kind, i worry it would do more harm than good??? and also what size would my cage have to be? the one i have now is fairly big but not sure it would be suitable for 2 birds...thanks! :>)

[heathfield]

The common method of finding out if two birds are going to get on is to have them in separate cages, push the cages together, and watch the reactions for a few days. As to cage size, your local pet shop or bird breeder should be able to help with advice.

[gessoo]

Also, cockatiels are noted as being mild-mannered birds who will mix very well in aviaries (unlike budgies!!) I should thing she would love a companion, but heathfield's idea is excellent. Do you know someone who would lend you a cage whilst the birds get aquainted? Your vet or pet shop might help with this.

I used to have four ********** (two pairs who didn't know each other before we put them together). All was fine.

[gessoo]

The stars came because I spelt cockatiels incorrectly! Promise I wasn't swering at you anjel!!