They are large enough to hold comfortably in your hand for the hand feeding process, and yet not so large as to be intimidating to beginners to the world of hand fed babies. They develop quickly and remain tame even when the hand feeding time is over. Because they are not as large as some of the parrot type birds, they are easier to control during the feeding process. Cockatiels are very social birds and thoroughly enjoy the human interaction of Hand feeding. If your choice is a Cockatiel and you decide to purchase an older bird or a parent raised bird, they are easily tamed and adjust well to the new first time owner.
Cockatiels are very affectionate, gentle birds.
Just remember, like any bird or other family pet, they need and enjoy your attention. They can deliver a rather painful bite, but they are usually more of a love giver then a bite giver. Cockatiels can talk with the right stimulation. However like all birds, NOT every cockatiel will talk. With patience and love they make wonderful additions to any family thinking of adopting a feathered friend into the family.