Why won't my cockatiel sing or whistle?

Question

My cockatiel Beaker, is a normal grey male, about 1 year old. He was parent raised and I've had him for about two and a half weeks. He steps up when outside of his cage but is still a little cage bound. He lets me feed him from my fingers and once or twice I've tricked him into letting me pet his head. Yesterday at dinnertime, me and my folks were sitting down about 8-10 feet from his cage eating. Out of nowhere he began whistling and singing! He hasn't been too vocal yet and this was his first real outburst. When I first brought him home, he was calling for his flock for a day or two, but this sounded very happy. We would whistle back and he would try to mimic. I noticed him start to put his head up and down in the bowl he was perched on. I went over to check what it was and realised he had defecated in it. I thought he might be trying to eat it so I washed it out and put it back in. After that, it was only us doing the whistling. Why hasn't my cockatiel been as vocal as he should be??

Answer 1

He is probally still scared he will start to sing after he gets more comforable it just takes time try giving him some treats so it makes him happy and a little more comforable but all he needs is time for him to get use to where he is going to be  

Answer 2

That is normal behavior for a tiel-he is adjusting to his new environment.  Generally cockatiels just take time to get used to being in a new place.  I wouldn't worry too much anyway since he has already given you a preview of his vocal abilities.  Soon enough he will be entertaining you with his songs, words and cute bird antics.  In the meantime, just keep petting him, offering treats, whistling and talking sweetly to him.  Cockatiels are the smartest,cutest and sweetest birds ever!  Good luck!