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Moving on Up : Birds outside of Small Hookbills

© Mary Wilson

At some point in the bird owner's life, the larger birds start to look interesting. For those of us who began with a smaller bird, such as a parakeet or a parrotlet, larger birds, perhaps those like amazons, who have the same personality as our beloved parrotlets begin to look interesting. Some, though, do not wish to take the step up quite so quickly. These people may be looking for the size that is a little more closer to our small hookbills, with a bit more personality. Or, perhaps they've met a friend's bird and want one for their own.

Traditionally, the group of birds that come after small hookbills are medium hookbills, but the name is quite misleading. The range of medium hookbills runs from cockatiels, which really aren't that much larger than a parakeet, to some conures that can rival the size of larger birds. In between, you have the smaller varieties of African Grays and Cockatoos, and other birds that may be only 11" or 12" inches in height. This includes my favorite of the medium hookbills, pionus.

There are a few species of birds in this group, however, that I would urge those familiar with small hookbills to look at as possible pets. They are the cockatiels and Quakers, both of which I own.

Most everyone is familiar with the beloved cockatiel. With its jaunty crest perked up in interest, this comical bird comes in many mutations, such as lutino and the new emerald and olive colors. The care of a cockatiel, is much like a parrotlet, with a large cage being a must. There are cockatiel "hotel" cages that I especially enjoy for their height (nearly 36" from floor to ceiling), and my cockatiel, Sunny, enjoys climbing up and down the bards to see all of his environment. Tiels, as they're called, can be prone to obesity, so a good pellet diet or a low fat seed diet supplemented with fresh fruits and vegetables and lots of exercise is vital.

Cockatiels are very personable and quickly learn various whistles and to say a few words. These birds make great "larger" birds for the parakeet owner, or can be a joy as a starter bird. Their prices vary, from $35 for a gray from a breeder to several hundred dollars for one of the new green mutations. Their toys are inexpensive, and they are a great addition to any family.

Quakers, or monk parakeets, are another great intermediate bird. However, they are illegal in some states, so check with other bird breeders or the authorities to determine if

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