Book excerpt: Lovable and charming little pets, these little wonderful cockatiels are some of the most popular pet birds in the world. These creatures are related to parrots and hail from the wilderness of Australia. In captivity, when allowed to interact with people early and often, cockatiels are affectionate and gentle. Thanks to their relatively compact size, cockatiels can be handled with ease. You won't need a big house to keep these birds happy. A cockatiel will be glad to see you return home from work, sit next to its cage for a bedtime story, or stay by your side simply treasuring your company. This bird's warm disposition can readily endear it to the right owner and household. While you don't have to be an experienced bird-handler to provide a suitable home for a cockatiel, taking one home does entail a good amount of responsibility and other certain cockatiel-only requirements. Prior to making the commitment, it's vital you know what you and your bird are in for. This book was written for the beginner cockatiel owner in mind, plus anyone considering one of these fascinating creatures as pets. You'll learn what to look for when selecting a bird, how to care for your cockatiel and form a nurturing relationship together, what to feed your cockatiel and more. With this book you'll quickly discover how to create a living area where your bird will thrive and live a long happy life. Need help deciding if a cockatiel is the pet for you and your family? This book will help you approach the decision-making process in a smart way. You'll also find out about basic training, breeding, grooming, cleaning, and bonding with cockatiels. A tamed cockatiel is a well-behaved bird that's a joy to have around. Included, too, among crucial topics are common diseases that harm cockatiels and how to bird-proof your home. The goal is to keep your little pal safe without dampening its curious and cheerful nature.