Caring for a one-month-old cockatiel requires either the parent birds or the pet owner to provide feeding. When feeding, use a specialized spoon designed for baby birds; avoid using a syringe as it can easily lead to choking.
At around 25 days old, a cockatiel's digestive system is still developing, and it cannot eat independently. They typically rely on parent birds or pet owners for feeding. At this stage, they primarily need milk formula. Because cockatiels at this age cannot digest cellulose, it's best to use a specialized cockatiel milk formula, such as one from a brand like Ge Yin.
Use a special "spoon for baby birds" when feeding. These spoons are shaped differently from typical spoons, mimicking the parent bird's beak, making it easier for the baby to ingest the liquid without spillage. When feeding, gently hold the baby bird's head in place with one hand and bring the spoon near its beak; the baby will then start eating on its own. Avoid using a syringe as it can easily cause choking.
Recognizing Signs of Bonding
When a cockatiel bonds with its owner, it will respond when called, actively approach the owner, react to the owner's words, and may even talk or sing to them. Bonded cockatiels will also eat from their owner's hand and won't resist petting and interaction. These behaviors indicate that the bird has bonded with you. Generally, a bond can develop within about a month of care. When training, be sure to give your bird a name; this is a crucial step in the bonding process.