Cockatiels come in a variety of colour mutations. This handbook givesetailed purchase advice, considerations related to caging, proper nutrition,rooming, health care and keeping the bird safe from household hazards.'

Matthew M. Vriends is a Dutch-born biologist/ornithologist who holds a collection of advanced degrees, including a PhD in zoology. Dr. Vriends has written more than 100 books in three languages on birds and other animals; his detailed works on parrotlike birds and finches are well known. Dr. Vriends has traveled extensively in South America, the United States, Africa, Australia, and Europe to observe and study birds in their natural environment and is widely regarded as an expert in tropical ornithology and aviculture. A source of particular pride are the many first-breeding results he has achieved in his large aviaries, which house more than 50 tropical bird species. Dr. Vriends lives on Long Island, New York. He is the author of seven Barron's Pet Owner's Manuals, Hedgehogs, Lovebirds, Pigeons, Conures, Lories and Lorikeets, Doves, and Gouldian Finches. He is also the author of Barron's Complete Nature Lover's Manual, Feeding and Sheltering Backyard Birds, and of Barron's The New Australian Parakeet Handbook, The New Bird Handbook, The New Canary Handbook, Hand-Feeding and Raising Baby Birds, and The Parrotlet Handbook.