I have been keeping cockatiels and other birds for over 15 years. Cockatiels are my favorite bird and I have always had at least 2 in my home. I have taken in cockatiels over the years that were not handled and whom the owners had decided were untamable and even mean since they bit hard. Some of the birds did bite very hard and were afraid of people initially. However, with patience and gentleness, almost all cockatiels became tame in time. How long the taming process takes is up to the bird and sometimes it does take a long time.
All birds here are kept in large cages and are often allowed out of the cage time in the evenings to socialize with people and other birds. They are given cockatiel pellets, some seed, vegetables, sprouts and whole grain bread to eat.
Some of the birds that find there way here become permanent residents. Others will be offered for adoption once healthy and on a good diet. Tame birds will be offered as pets. It is not very common, but some birds are unable to overcome their fear of people (due to being mishandled in the past or never being handled at all). These birds are kept until a home can be found with a person who accepts the birds as they are, or a person who is willing to keep them in an aviary where they can fly and live with other birds.
It is true that anyone can go to a pet store and buy a bird, but often the birds that are the most grateful and make the best pets are those who have been given a second chance at a good life and a good home. Even the cockatiels that are not tame will sometimes come up to the cage bars and "talk" to me by whistling or calling. They have no desire to be touched, but they still are curious enough to want to interact with me.
Gainesville Cockatiel Rescue is small and private. What this means is that only a few birds can be taken in at a time. I do this because I love birds and want to give unwanted cockatiels a chance at a better life. I care for the birds using my own finances so will not take in more than I can comfortably care for. Bird supplies are always appreciated.
It is preferred that incoming birds be healthy to minimize the risk to birds already present. If your bird is ill, I may still be able to take it in if I have space to quarantine it away from the birds already living here. Other birds may also be taken in if space is available.