Males generally will talk better than the females & the females are generally gentler than the males – how’s that for a
general statement!
here are 3 links to look at - #1 is a great sight for you for reference & #2 & #3 have some cage, diet & general knowledge in there.
1)
http://www.cockatiels.org/
2)
http://www.bluequaker.com/Art-015.htm
3)
http://exoticpets.about.com/cs/birds/a/cockatiels.htm
Here are some local breeders in my area who have some really lovely photos of their birds so you can see some of the mutations & see the difference between a show bird & a regular bird. Mom's birds are not high quality - their crests are thin & short compared to the better examples - but if you love your pet it really doesn't matter does it?
http://www.geocities.com/heavenlyfea.../breeders.html
http://www.geocities.com/hwaviary/
I agree with Sarah & Crystal about the cage. Get as long a cage as you can, so you can put lots of toys in it & various branches. If you’re planning on moving it from room to room than you will have to consider the doorways & whether you want to put the cage on a moveable stand. A lot of people like me have a fairly small cage & allow lots of time out. We are however thinking of a fancy cage for the living room that will be more like furniture & offer a nice home if we are away & a friend pet sits.
Check out utube & see Tiels in action - many owners show their cages & play gyms there & it can be inspirational - **same goes for the Budgies.
IE:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7J9cDzd6QC8
this one shows how they can go on & on with their calls - so prepare yourself:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jzy21a5U-WM