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I got one new (16-yr old) cockatiel on Monday from one person, and two more 2-year olds yesterday from another -- all give-aways that needed new homes and came into our lives. They all seem healthy enough, but it's been suggested that I quarantine them.

How long should they be quarantined, and must they remain in separate rooms or can I have their cages in the same room so they can see and talk to each other (not immediately next to each other, but with at least a few feet of space separating the cages)? I'm not at all familiar with the different illnesses that birds can carry/spread, so don't know if this would be acceptable or not.

Any suggestions?

Quarentine is usually 45 days in seperate rooms - the 2 that were living together would stay together. In a perfect world each would have its own air system so the air doesn't mix. You don't want them to mingle in close proximaty because they could get solid pieces of stuff (fecal or even food and feathers) going into the others cages and thus contaminating each other. Even a few feet is not good enough - feathers do float and food ends up flying as they crunch it.

Glad your here!!

Darylann,

Welcome to our group, and I hope we can assist you with your questions and so forth. Luna Bella has told you right. You do need to keep the birds separated by room, but in addition, you really don't want to handle any poop or cage paper without washing your hands in between. That is one of the most prevalent ways that diseases are transmitted, especially giardia. Even the dust from poo can contain active "bugs" that can infect the other birds. Unless you see visible signs of a problem though I would not automatically assume either one or the pair have any type of disease or problem. 'Tiels hide illnesses extremely well, and you'd never know it unless you've been around them long enough to know what their "normal" state is. Changing cage paper often, (once daily) is probably enough to prevent poo from turning to dust, and daily water changes is essential. I'm so proud you've accepted these 3 birds, and hopefully, they will adapt to their new home and come to love you as your own. Cockatiels are wonderful affectionate birds, but it takes time for them to trust you, but once they do, their trust is unqualified, and their love is unquestionable.

So.... feel free to yell anytime you have any questions. This group of folks is eager to help anyone new to 'tiels without hesitation or question. One of your first items on the to-do list should be a "well birdie" checkup with an avian vet. They are your best source of info about health.

Again, welcome to our "gang"