Originally Posted by
Dragonlady2
Welcome to the forum! One thing I have heard about cockatiels is that the female can potentially lay eggs excessively, which can effect her health. You may be better with a male, especially if this is your first bird.
Unless you can guarantee the safety of your bird, I would have a cage. You can always let it out for whatever time you wish. I look at the cage as their safe place. If the cage is set up correctly, it also teaches the bird to entertain itself which results in less screaming for your attention.