cockatiel myth

Question
I have several birds and recently just bought a female cockatiel. When i was searching through the internet i came across a section on cockatiels. It said that female cockatiels do not talk or whistle, only the males do. Is this true?

Answer
Hello,

Well, it isn't that the females can't talk or whistle, its just that the majority of them choose not to, lol. They do have the ability to learn whistles and human speech, this is true, they are much quieter in comparison to the males so are less likely to be interested in learning. You mainly see male cockatiels out there who can talk, whistle, etc. and very few females, but some DO! So, your little hen might just surprise you yet. I had one female who would imitate my Quaker, did a few whistles as well, was a real sweetheart, made the cutest sounds. So it is all dependant upon the individual bird. I'm most certain that if you did a certain whistle at her every day, she would eventually use that whistle in return!

It just takes time, patience, and repitition, you might just be surprised yet. So, in answer to your question it is a myth that females don't talk or whistle, because they can, and some do indeed! :)

Take care,
Regards,
Sarah