About my cockatiel

Question
I bought an older cocketiel from a pet shop. (A lady brought it in as she was moving and couldn't take it). It is very calm, acts like it can't fly too well. He drops head to rub it and gets on finger really good. He does not chirp much, does eat well (only had it one day), looks around and acts happy. Will he get happier or will he just sit around? Will he eventually start chirping? I let him out everyday and he sits where I put him, preams himself and sleeps when he is out.
His toenails need clipped but I do not know where to cut.
Can you maybe diagnose the case?
Thanks,
Joan
This morning I was rubbing his head and he started making a noise like the babies make. I think he was enjoying it?

Answer
Joan,

Congratulations on getting your new cockatiel.  The first thing you should do is to bring her into an avian vet (a veterinarian who specializes in birds) for a new bird visit.  

It sounds to me like you have a female cockatiel.  In general, they are much more docile than the males, and make wonderful pets, but they do not sing.  The chirping noises you hear may be sexual excitement, as that is the sound that females make when mounted by the males.  When she starts doing that, stop rubbing the back of her head and distract her.  You do not want to sexually excite a lone female as she may begin to lay eggs, which is not healthy for her.

Good luck!

Cindy