# How Fast Is A Cockatiel?

> Cockatiel top speed is up to about 64 km/h (40 mph). Sprint vs endurance and what limits pace.

- **Species:** Cockatiel (*Nymphicus hollandicus*)
- **Conservation status:** Least Concern
- **Diet:** Herbivore (seeds, grains, plants)
- **Habitat:** Open scrubland and wetlands (wild)
- **Lifespan:** 15–20 years in captivity
- **Top speed:** Up to 64 km/h (40 mph)
- **Canonical HTML:** https://globalanimalguide.org/animals/cockatiel/how-fast-is-a-cockatiel/
- **Parent profile:** https://globalanimalguide.org/animals/cockatiel/
- **Last reviewed:** 2026-07-16

## Quick answer

The cockatiel is a small crested parrot from Australia and one of the most popular pet birds after the budgerigar. Recognizable by its expressive crest and orange cheek patches, it is gentle, affectionate, and famous for whistling tunes. Cockatiels are members of the cockatoo family and typically live 15 to 20 years, making them a long-term companion.

## Who should skip this page

Skip this if you need the full biology — use the [Cockatiel profile](https://globalanimalguide.org/animals/cockatiel/) instead.

## The expressive crest

A cockatiel's mood can be read from its crest. When the bird is relaxed the crest sits at a gentle angle, when it is alert or excited the crest stands tall, and when it is frightened or angry the crest flattens against the head. This visible body language, along with their gentle nature, helps make cockatiels easy and rewarding to keep.

## Help protect the Cockatiel

Even familiar animals lose ground as wild habitat keeps shrinking worldwide.

[Donate to wildlife protection](https://worldanimalrescuenetwork.org/donate/)

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Source: Global Animal Guide (https://globalanimalguide.org/animals/cockatiel/how-fast-is-a-cockatiel/). Licensed CC BY-NC 4.0 — free for non-commercial reuse with attribution.