I had a cockatiel - female, I taught her lots of words and phrases and she would rearrange the words and phrases. I had her for about 5 years. Bird store owner told me the chance of getting a female to talk was about 5%. I bought another and she talked some when I first got her but won't anymore. She doesn't whistle either. I guess I don't spend enough time with her. I have a small cage I take her outside in when it is warm. She loves it and makes noises, the wild birds don't pay her any mind.