Different species of birds react in different ways when tragedy strikes, and a partner or close buddy suddenly dies, but all without exception feel a profound loss. It is therefore extremely important that all captive birds that suffer a bereavement are (i) made aware that their mate is dead and, (ii) are given time to grieve with the body of their stricken mate.

In the case of cockatiels, if the body of the dead bird is removed from the flight or cage without their partner having seeing it, most will presume that their mate has flown away, is lost, or in trouble, and the situation will leave them in a high state of anxiety and bewilderment. Some cockatiels will incessantly call for their lost mate for hours, days or even weeks on end.

Read more in the magazine…