Best pellet food for my cockatiel? He's a picky eater!

Hey bird folks! I recently adopted a 3-year-old cockatiel named Rio and I'm struggling with food. He ONLY wants seeds, won't touch pellets at all. I know seeds aren't great as a main diet but he literally throws a fit if I try to give him pellets. Any recommendations for brands or tricks to transition a picky eater? He's otherwise healthy and loves to whistle!

Oh the seed vs pellet struggle is SO real! My cockatiel was the same. What worked was mixing a tiny amount of pellets into his seed mix - like 10% to start. Also, try warm (not hot) pellets - the warmth brings out the smell and makes them more appealing. Zupreem and Lafeber are both good beginner pellets. Some birds also like 'chop' - finely chopped veggies mixed with pellets.

Not a vet but work at an avian clinic! The warm pellet trick is legit - birds are attracted to warmth. Also try making pellets into 'sprouts' by soaking them. Another tip: don't free-feed seeds. Offer pellets first thing in the morning when he's hungriest, then seeds as a treat later. Eventually he'll realize pellets = food = survival. Also, get him on a formulated pellet - seeds are way too high in fat for cockatiels.

I breed cockatiels and honestly, most weaned babies prefer pellets if introduced correctly. Try different brands - birds have preferences just like us! My favorites are Harrison's and Roudybush, both organic and high quality. Also, try putting pellets in different bowl locations or even on a mirror. Some birds eat what their 'reflection' eats lol. Patience is key - can take weeks or months!

Thanks everyone! I'm going to try the warm pellet method and the mixing trick. I didn't know about the morning timing - that makes sense. I'll try Harrison's since multiple people recommended it. Wish me luck!