Biki's Aviary - Cockatiel Care, Bird Health & Pet Bird Guides

If you've just brought home a cockatiel — or have had one for years — you've probably wondered: should I cover my cockatiel's cage at night? Walk into any bird forum and you'll find heated debates. Some owners swear by it. Others have never used a cover and their birds thrive. The truth is, there is no single 'right' answer for every bird. But there IS a right answer for your cockatiel — and in this guide, we'll give you every piece of information you need to make that decision confidently. 1. Why Sleep Matters So Much for Cockatiels Before diving into the covering debate, it's important to understand how critical sleep is for your feathered friend. Cockatiels are diurnal birds — meaning they are active during daylight hours and are biologically wired to sleep when it's dark. In the wild, cockatiels native to Australia follow the natural sunrise-sunset cycle almost perfectly. As dusk approaches, they instinctively gather in sheltered spots, away ...