Are you worried your cockatiel or any other bird for that matter may be suffering from boredom?  You can take some simple steps to ensure your cockatiel takes more enjoyment from his environment and keep his mind agile.

Many cockatiels will be content to hang out on a playgym, but most will take the opportunity to become explorers.  If you own a playgym and your bird doesn’t seem to have much interest in staying there, you can outfit the area for fun.  You might think of attaching some new toys on the playgym.  You can also offer a dish that is filled with items like chewable/flavored wood, marbles, plastic buttons and even some air popped popcorn as an added treat.

There are cockatiels who are great snugglers.  If this describes your bird, you can offer him various cuddling options.  There are plush sleeping huts as well as toys you can purchase to fill this need when you aren’t at home.  Keep an eye on your cockatiel when you first bring a plush toy home because you don’t want him/her to get carried away and ingest any of the fabric.

Your cockatiel may enjoy play fighting with his toys.  You may notice that he takes great pleasure in bringing any and all toys down.  If you notice that your bird enjoys this, get him some sturdy and colorful toys he can destroy happily.

When you look at the high price of bird toys, you may become discouraged that you aren’t providing your cockatiel with enough stimulation.  Have no fear, many items you have in your home can be utilized for a cockatiel to play with.  You can try wooden clothespins, strips of burlap, loo paper and the cardboard that is at the end of the roll, to name just a few things that may interest your bird.  With just a little thought and creativity, you are sure to find many more home based toys your bird will enjoy.

Cockatiels are attracted to shiny objects………..  You can include a bell in your bird’s cage that is not only shiny, but makes lots of noise as well.  If you notice your bird is attracted to shiny objects, use your noodle to find things that will be fun for him to play with.  You can string some nuts and bolts mixed with plastic beads and hang it in the cage.  If you use shoelaces to string them, this will add another element of fun for your cockatiel.

A great way to keep cockatiels entertained is training.  You can try teaching your  cockatiel tricks as well as to whistle many tunes as they are known to be great whistlers.  Not only will this expand your birds mind, but it will be a great bonding experience for you both.

We all know how important mental stimulation is to our feathered friends and it can be quite a challenge to keep them engaged.  For them to enjoy life to the fullest, playing and interacting with toys is an important component of bird keeping.  Keep your eyes open and your mind thinking of things that may interest your bird.  You may find that the cheapest items are the most successful.

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