I just got a cockatiel that is about a year and a half old. As far as I know it has always eaten seeds. My bird looks very healthy, but from what I have been reading this is very bad for him/her. Should I start feeding it pellets? Also I have read that it is hard to get a bird that is used to seeds to eat pellets, is this true? If it is can you give me some tips on getting my bird to eat pellets? Also it has never really been handled much, just left in the cage. It does not appear to be afraid of me but it will bit my hand if my hand gets anywhere near it. Will he/she stop doing this once it gets more used to me?

Thanks,
Jennifer

Jennifer,

Pellets seem to be the choice food, although seeds are fine as long as they are supplemented with fresh vegetables, fruits and cuttlebone daily. Seed has almost no nutritional value. It can take a few weeks to convert a seed eater to pellets, but if you introduce the pellets along with the seed and know it can take a little while to convert, the birds curiosity will usually demand he try the new stuff.

Since you have just acquired him, he may only be nipping at you because he's afraid. Keep offering your hand for him to perch on and after a few days, see if he's more cooperative. If it's a bite that breaks the skin, you have a problem that requires considerable patience and persistence.