I have a normal gray cock and a slightly younger pearl hen, both of which are pets. Over the last couple of months the cock bird has found his 'voice' and begun to sing and display to the hen. His typical 'bowing' motions are accompanied by a sharp, deliberate backwards jerk of the head - something I have never seen before.

Also, in his new found eagerness to start a family, the cock is badgering the hen to the point of distraction - will this behavior stop when he goes out of breeding condition?

Thank you for your interest.

Helen L.

Dear Helen,

The courting rituals of the male cockatiel are extremely entertaining to watch. We have about 40 or 50 males that provide 40 or 50 different rituals. Each one appears to try and out do the other. We think it's better viewing than cable TV.

The badgering you mention can be a normal part of "getting acquainted". Just keep an eye on the aggressiveness to insure it doesn't get out of hand.