Male Silver Cockatiel Parrot for sale

Nymphicus hollandicus (mutation: Dominant Silver or Recessive Silver)

Types of Silver Mutations

1.  Dominant Silver (Single-Factor & Double-Factor)

• Plumage: Silvery-gray feathers with warm or golden undertones.
• Eyes: Usually dark red or reddish-brown.
• Skin & Feet: Pinkish tone.
• Genetics: Dominant mutation—only one parent needs the gene.
• Double-factor Dominant Silver: Lighter overall with more intense silver tones.

Recessive Silver

• Plumage: A more washed-out, pastel gray—cooler-toned and almost icy white in some birds.
• Eyes: Usually dark red, deeper than Dominant Silver.
• Genetics: Recessive—both parents must carry the gene.
• Rarer and often more fragile-looking in appearance.

 Recessive Silver is sometimes confused with White-faced or Pastelface, but its diluted silvery tone is distinct.

 

Common Physical Traits

Trait.                  Description

Body Color.      Silvery-gray, pastel, or platinum-gray depending on mutation

Face.                Males (post-molt): Whiter face if White-faced gene is present

Eyes.                Red to deep reddish-brown

Crest.              Light gray to silvery

Beak/Feet.      Pinkish-gray

Sex Differences.  Males may develop cleaner/lighter faces post-molt

 Behavior & Temperament

Like all cockatiels, Silver mutations are known for being:

• Gentle and social
• Curious and intelligent
• Capable of whistling, mimicking sounds, or words
• Very attached to human companions

 Size & Lifespan

• Length: 11–13 inches (28–33 cm)
• Weight: ~90–120 grams
• Lifespan: 15–25 years with good care

 Care Requirements

• Diet: Pellets, fresh vegetables, a small amount of seed
• Housing: Spacious cage with room to flap wings (24” x 18” minimum)
• Toys & Stimulation: Swings, foraging toys, and daily human interaction
• Time Outside Cage: At least 1–2 hours daily

Silver mutations can also combine with:

• Pied (Silver Pied Cockatiel)
• Pearl (Silver Pearl Cockatiel)
• Lutino (rare, may result in heavy light dilution)
• White-faced (for a cooler, more ghost-like silver)

These combos can make incredibly unique and beautiful birds!