Different Mutatations
Cockatiels come in a variety of color variations, or mutations, resulting in domestic breeding which are generally referred to as Pied, Pearl, Cinnamon, Lutino, and Silver. The basic pigments in the cockatiel are yellow, red, and black. The first mutation is the Pied, which has white and yellow spots on their bodies wherever they lack black pigmentation. The second mutation is the Lutino, which is where they lack black pigmentation, and the female generally becomes more brilliant than the male. The third mutation is the lovely Pearl, where they have white and yellow feathers with dark gray borders. The males molt back to gray while the females coloring holds. The fourth mutation is the Cinnamon, where the black pigmentation turns brown. The fifth mutation is the Silver; this is a paled gray resulting because the black pigmentation has been partially reduced.
Cockatiel size and life span
These attractive little parrots are considered part of the cockatoo family (Cacatuidae). Young birds reach full size at about 9 months, though they begin to molt at about 6 months and will continue to molt yearly from then on. The adult cockatiel weighs 3 to 4 ounces and is 12 inches from beak to the tip of the tail. The adult generally has darker feathers and beaks. Male cockatiels generally have brighter yellow heads and check patches, as well as prominent crests. Average life span is 12 to 14 years, but they can live as long as 20 to 25 years.
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