A Comprehensive Guide to Cockatiel Varieties

Have you ever gazed at the vibrant array of cockatiels and wondered about the differences in their colors and markings? Are you curious if the types of cockatiels you choose could influence their personality? 

When embarking on the exciting journey of adopting a cockatiel, these questions often flutter through the minds of prospective bird owners. When determining the gender of a cockatiel by its feathers, it’s essential to first understand the types of cockatiels you are dealing with, as feather patterns can vary based on the mutation. After a cockatiel has gone through a full molt, which reveals its adult plumage, you can start looking for gender-specific patterns.

Ready to explore the beautiful world of cockatiel varieties? Keep reading to discover each type’s unique traits and stunning visuals.

Gray Cockatiels (Standard Cockatiels)

A gray cockatiel has a mostly gray body with white patches on its wings and a striking yellow face. Their orange cheek patches add a splash of color, making them easily recognizable. These, and most other cockatiels, can range in weight; typically 85 grams to 130 grams is ok.

You can tell the difference between male and female gray cockatiels by looking at their faces. Males have brighter yellow faces and more vivid orange cheek patches. Females, on the other hand, have a duller yellow face and less vibrant cheek color.

Another clue is the tail feathers; females often have barred or spotted patterns under their tails, while males do not.

Lutino Cockatiels

A lutino cockatiel is a captivating bird known for its striking appearance and charming personality. This variety is characterized by its bright yellow feathers, lacking the gray hues found in other cockatiel varieties. Their cheeks have a vibrant orange patch, adding to their appealing look. 

You can identify the gender of a lutino cockatiel by examining their facial markings. Males typically have brighter, more pronounced orange cheek patches, while females often have lighter, subtler ones. 

Additionally, females may display barring or spots under their tail and flight feathers, which are absent in males.

• Bonus Info: The eyes of a lutino cockatiel are ruby red, a distinctive feature that sets them apart

Whiteface Cockatiels

The whiteface cockatiel is next on our list of types of cockatiels (and it’s one of my two favorites). This unique and stunning variation of this species lacks orange cheek patches, unlike typical cockatiels.

Instead, males have striking white faces that contrast sharply with their dark gray bodies. Females, on the other hand, have more muted gray faces with lighter shading. Both sexes feature a beautiful crest and long tail feathers.

To tell the difference between male and female whiteface cockatiels, look at their face and cheek color. Males that have matured will have a bright white face without any orange, while females have gray faces with subtle white markings. As with the other varieties, the female’s tail may also show barring or spots, which the male’s tail does not have.

Pied Cockatiels

A pied cockatiel (my other favorite) is a unique variety known for its distinctive appearance. You can recognize this variety by the sporadic white patches on their bodies (which, incidentally, is caused by a lack of pigmentation). The white areas can appear in various sizes and shapes anywhere on the body, ensuring that no two pied cockatiels look the same. 

Another way to recognize this variety is by its darker eyes and lighter legs compared to other types of cockatiels. Its cheeks are bright orange, and the feathers on top of its head are vibrant yellow. 

You can tell male and female pied cockatiels apart by their coloring: males often have brighter yellow faces and more pronounced cheek patches, while females usually have more muted colors.

• Bonus Info: The unique look of the pied cockatiel was the inspiration for the design of our logo

Pearl Cockatiels

The pearl cockatiel is a popular and visually striking variety known for its unique feather pattern. These birds have a distinctive mottled appearance due to a mutation that causes their feathers to display a mix of colors, often including shades of yellow, white, and gray. This pattern gives them a “pearl” look, with lighter feathers creating a lacy effect over the body.

Observe their plumage and behavior to differentiate between male and female pearl cockatiels. Males typically lose some of their pearling as they mature, becoming more solid gray or white, especially around the head and wings.

Females, on the other hand, generally retain their pearl pattern throughout their lives. Additionally, males may have brighter orange cheek patches and are likelier to sing and mimic sounds, while females tend to be quieter.

Yellowface Cockatiels

The yellowface cockatiel is a beautiful and popular pet bird known for its striking bright yellow face with yellow (not orange!) cheek patches. The rest of their body is mostly gray, but some may have white or light gray wing patches.

To tell the difference between male and female yellowface cockatiels, observe their facial coloring. Males usually have brighter yellow faces and more pronounced yellow cheek patches. Females typically have a duller yellow face and lighter cheek patches. 

Additionally, females might have faint barring or spots on the underside of their tail feathers.

Albino Cockatiels

An albino cockatiel is a unique variety that lacks all color pigments, resulting in pure white feathers and striking red eyes. This appearance comes from a genetic mutation that removes both melanin and carotenoid pigments.

Unlike other cockatiels, the albino cockatiel has no signature orange cheek patches or yellow coloring. Instead, its white feathers and pinkish feet give it an elegant look.

Distinguishing between male and female albino cockatiels can be challenging since their color does not provide clues. However, you can often tell them apart by their behavior and vocalizations. 

Males tend to be more vocal and may whistle or mimic sounds better than females. They also often display more active and outgoing behavior. In contrast, females are generally quieter and more reserved. Observing these traits can help identify the gender of your albino cockatiel.

Which Types of Cockatiels Are Your Favorites?

The world of cockatiel varieties is diverse and captivating. Each type, from the standard gray to the unique albino, boasts distinct visual characteristics and subtle differences in gender identification. Whether drawn to the vibrant hues of the lutino or the pearled effect of another variety, the diverse range of types of cockatiels ensures a feathered friend for everyone.

Are you keen to keep learning how to care for your cockatiel? Discover more expert advice in the Feathered Tails & Friends blog—your go-to source for all things small-bird care! From training tricks to nutrition tips, our blog ensures your feathered companions live their best lives. 

With fresh insights soaring in every Tuesday, there’s always something new to learn. Keep browsing for the most informative and accurate guidance tailored to your avian friends!