Major Mitchells

The Major Mitchell's cockatoo is a strikingly beautiful species. Sometimes called the Leadbeater's cockatoo or the pink cockatoo, their crest feathers are striped with yellow and salmon. Wings and back are white, and most of the chest, underwings and undertail are pink.

For all their beauty, these birds don't make the best pets because they tend to be aloof – and they often bite. They are also noisy; they rarely speak, but they are loud screamers. If you have your heart set on one, though, choose a female; she'll be more docile, although not as common in the market as males. 

These birds, whose formal name is Cacatua leadbeateri, are inquisitive and love to chew objects, so they should always be provided with toys, blocks of wood or branches. Don't permit them unsupervised run of the house. They can be very destructive if allowed to perch on furniture.

Cost

While Major Mitchell's are uncommon and expensive in the U.S. market commanding $4,000 to $10,000 for a young bird. They are found in central Australia, especially in the south central areas around Adelaide, inhabiting eucalyptus forests along rivers. They are frequently found co-existing with rose-breasted cockatoos on savannahs and grasslands, where they feed on seeds, herbs and crops of wheat and corn. They also eat native figs, pinecones and eucalyptus seeds, wild bitter melons, insect larvae, nuts and flowers. They are most active in early morning and late afternoon. Aggressively territorial, they are usually found in pairs or small groups.

Like other cockatoo species, Major Mitchell's can be very long lived. A few individuals in zoos have lived up to 60 years. Precise data on the life span of the average bird is poorly documented; however, most of them don't live as long as they might, often succumbing to disease or injury.

Grooming

Routine bathing or showering is vital to maintaining good plumage and skin condition. Birds can be misted and allowed to dry in a warm room or in the sun, or gently dried with a blow dryer. Care should be taken not to clip the wing feathers excessively as cockatoos often fall and injure themselves. Clip only the primary flight feathers and only enough so the bird will glide to the floor. Major Mitchell's are better flyers than Moluccans and umbrellas and a few more feathers should be removed.

Feeding

High protein pelleted diet is an excellent staple diet for cockatoos. It should be supplemented with fresh fruits and vegetables daily to add variety. Feed approximately 1/4 cup of formulated diet and 1/4 cup of fresh fruits and vegetables daily. If the bird consumes all of his food, add small amounts as desired. Note, though, that overfeeding leads to pickiness, wastage and throwing food. Treats such as seeds, nuts and table foods may be given in small amounts especially as rewards for good behavior.

Major Mitchell's cockatoos are efficient calorie utilizers. When young, cockatoos in general are notoriously picky eaters and don't seem to need much food to maintain themselves. As they age, however, they have a tendency to put on weight. Try to ensure that the food your bird eats is nutritious and avoid large amounts of high-fat sunflower and safflower seeds. Vitamin supplements are not needed for birds eating a pelleted diet.

Housing

Major Mitchell's cockatoos are very active and should be provided the largest cage that space and budget allows – at the very least, the cage must allow room for the bird to spread his wings fully. These birds are moderately strong chewers and can break welds on poorly constructed cages. Many are also adept at opening cage latches, so locks or escape proof latches may be necessary. Ideally, the bird will have an outdoor cage as well to allow playtime in the fresh-air and sunlight.

Breeding

Male cockatoos, especially Major Mitchell's, frequently become aggressive toward their mates. Fatal attacks may occur, in which the male bird severely bites the face, wings, and legs of the female. Clipping a male's wings prior to the breeding season will help the female to escape in case the male becomes aggressive. While aggressive behavior may occur in compatible breeding pairs, they should be the same age and paired when they are young. Older males should not be paired with young females.

Breeding age can be as young as three years. Breeding life span is not precisely known, but is possibly up to 25-plus years.

Major Mitchell's cockatoos breed well in captivity but are not as prolific or bred as commonly as Moluccan and umbrella cockatoos. In North America, Major Mitchell's cockatoos breed predominantly in the winter and spring. Clutch size is typically 2 to 3 eggs.

Breeding cages should be large enough to allow flight between perches to help prevent obesity. One inch by one inch 12-gauge welded wire is a good choice for cage construction. A suggested size is 5 feet wide by 5 feet tall by 10 feet long suspended 4 feet above the ground or floor or a large flight cage.

Double-entrance nest boxes are often used to reduce the chance of the male trapping the female in the box. Large wooden boxes can be used. Size should be approximately 18 inches by 18 inches by 24 inches. Metal barrels, plastic pickle barrels and garbage cans can be used.

Incubation period is approximately 24 to 26 days. Chicks usually fledge at approximately 10 to 12 weeks of age. Major Mitchell's cockatoos are relatively easy to hand-rear. Most hand-rearing formulas can be used successfully.

When breeding cockatoos, noise and proximity to neighbors must be considered. If housed outdoors, cockatoos often call at night – especially during a full moon. In southern states outdoor caging must be protected from opossums to prevent exposure to the parasite Sarcocystis falcatula which can result in a fatal lung infection.

Slender Billed Cockatoo

Slender-billed cockatoos – also known as long-billed corellas – are largely underrated as pets. Relatively homely birds, they are often passed over in favor of the more beautiful Moluccans or umbrellas, but the slender-bills have exceptional personalities. They are gentle, playful and affectionate, as well as intelligent and inquisitive. Better mimics than most cockatoos, they are neither as loud nor as demanding as their more popular cousins.

Appearance

The birds are large white cockatoos, known for their slim elongated upper beak. They have short white recumbent crests, and blue eye rings that extend below the eye revealing a blue bulge. There is a small pink patch between the eyes and nares. The subspecies found in eastern Australia has a pink band across the upper breast just below the neck, but the western subspecies (considered a full species, C pastinator by many authors) is distinguished by the lack of the breast band. 

Slender-billed cockatoos are common and found in large flocks throughout much of northern and central Australia, inhabiting woodlands and eucalyptus forests near grasslands and agricultural areas. They also invade cultivated areas and damage crops. In the non-breeding season they may gather in large flocks of 2,000 or more birds and range widely through grasslands in search for food. They feed in trees and on the ground, and use their elongated bills as a plough, digging in the soil for roots, bulbs and insects. They also feed on seeds, crops, fruits, berries, buds, flowers and nuts and insect larvae. They are most active in early morning and late afternoon.

Life Span

Slender-billed cockatoos can live up to 50 years. Precise data on the life span of these birds is poorly documented because many die of disease or injury before living out their natural lives. Breeding age can be as young as 3 years but is more typically 4 to 5 years. Breeding life span is not precisely known. 

These birds love to chew and are very destructive. They should always be provided with toys, blocks of wood or branches and they need space for exercise. While they are relatively common in their native Australia, they are not easily found in U.S markets.

Feeding

Cockatoos should be fed a formulated (pelleted or extruded) diet. The pink eye-ring subspecies should be fed a restricted diet to prevent obesity. The diet should be supplemented with fresh fruits and vegetables daily. Feed approximately 1/3 cup of formulated diet and 1/3 cup of fresh fruits and vegetables daily. Overfeeding leads to pickiness, selective feeding and wasteful throwing of food. Slender-billed cockatoos are predisposed to obesity.

Adult and juvenile birds are picky eaters. Try to ensure that the food that they eat is nutritious and avoid feeding large quantities of high-fat seeds such as sunflower and safflower. Vitamin supplements are not needed for birds on a formulated diet.

Housing

Slender-billed cockatoos are very active and should be provided the largest cage that space and budget allows. Ideally, the cage should provide room for flight. Durable cage construction is not as critical as it is for other large cockatoos as these birds are not strong chewers. Many are adept at opening cage latches, however, so locks or escape-proof latches may be necessary. The cage should be as large as possible and must allow at least enough room for the bird to fully spread his wings. Ideally the bird will have an outdoor cage as well to allow playtime in the fresh-air and sunlight.

Grooming

Routine bathing or showering is vital to maintaining good plumage and skin condition. Birds can be misted and allowed to dry in a warm room or in the sun, or gently dried with a blow drier. Care should be taken not to clip the wing feathers excessively as cockatoos often fall and injure themselves. Clip only the primary flight feathers and only enough so the bird will glide to the floor.

Breeding

Slender-billed cockatoos can be difficult to breed in captivity. In North America, they breed mostly in the winter and spring, and clutch size is typically two to three eggs. A suggested size is 4 feet wide by 4 feet tall by 6 feet long suspended 4 feet above the ground or floor.

Double entrance nest boxes are often used to reduce the chance of the male trapping the female in the box (males frequently become aggressive toward their mates; clipping a male's wings prior to the breeding season will help the female to escape). Wooden boxes can be used and size should be approximately 12 inches by 12 inches by 24 inches or 12 inches by 12 inches by 36 inches or deeper.

Incubation period is approximately 24 to 26 days. Chicks usually fledge at approximately 10 to 12 weeks of age. Slender-billed cockatoos are relatively easy to hand-rear. Most hand rearing formulas can be used successfully. 

Slender-billed cockatoos are not as noisy as the larger cockatoos. However, when breeding them, noise and proximity to neighbors must be considered. If housed outdoors cockatoos often call at night especially during a full moon. In southern states, outdoor caging must be protected from opossums to prevent exposure to the parasite Sarcocystis falcatula, which can result in a fatal lung infection.

Red Vented Cockatoo

The rare Philippine Cockatoo, also known as the red-vented cockatoo, or “Kalangay” in Tagalog, is native to the Philippine archipelago.  Years ago, the Philippine cockatoo was a common bird in the Philippines and was considered a pest, because it was so adaptable, it would forage on crops, especially corn and unripe rice, which is critical to the Filipino economy.

How does the Philippine Cockatoo impact the local ecology and Filipino people?  How much does the bird’s love for crops affect the agriculture, economy, and people?  Is its removal of tree grubs compare with crop raiding?  In other words, is it more helpful or harmful?  Will its extermination make a difference?  If the Philippine cockatoo is the only species of cockatoo in the Philippines, why get rid of it?

Could there be a way to use the Philippine cockatoo for ecological purposes?  Today, less than four thousand cockatoos remain, only 10% of their population only a few decades ago.  Today because of their adaptability, intelligent human voice mimicking, and scarcity, the critically endangered birds have been illegally sold and traded as pets. In illegal markets, they are worth over 500 US Dollars. Despite their small numbers, people continue these activities virtually unchecked by the local government.  Why do we disregard these birds?  Can we find a way to keep them away from crops?  We could train these intelligent birds to stay away from crops, looks for food and maybe in the future, provide help to mute people.

The purpose of this project is to research the biology, ecology, and intellect of the Philippine cockatoo through study of cockatoo reservations in Palawan, interviews of the people who care for them, and literary recordings from when the birds were common.  This information can help experimentation of the bird, in which usefulness can be found.

I hope that through the Philippine cockatoo’s positive output, we can turn a pesky, critically endangered bird into a common and useful one that can help the Filipino people through understanding of its possible potential.

table of contents...

Biology

Common Names and Synonyms

Cacatua haematuropygia is also called the Red-vented Cockatoo. (“Kalangay” in its native Tagalog) The common name for it is the Philippine Cockatoo, since it is found only in the Philippine islands. 

Classification

Kingdom:  Animalia

Phylum:    Chordata

Class:       Aves  (bird)

Order:      Psittaciformes  (cockatoos and true parrots)

Family:     Cacatuidae  (old sister)

Genus:     Cacatua  (old sister)

Species:   C. haematuropygia  [red blood (tailed) cockatoo]

Morphology and Physical Description

The Philippine Cockatoo is a small white cockatoo with red and yellow beneath tail. It is 12.2 inches long and has an 8.6 inches wingspan. It is completely white with an exception of feathers suffused with the sulfur-yellow at the bases, often tinged with reddish or pinkish at the undertail feathers. The crest is relatively short and more or less washed with bright red broadly edged with white. The eyes of the Philippine Cockatoo are blood-red to brown in females and dark brown to black in males. In juvenile cockatoos, they initially have greyer irises, which later become brownish as they reach adulthood. The bill of the Philippine cockatoo is leaden at base and white at the tip and its legs are white. They have a massive scimitar-like beak for cracking nuts, digging up roots, or prying grubs from wood. They also have a long life span, some living more than 50 years.

The voice of the Philippine cockatoo is often a loud, harsh, and rasping call. Despite how loud its call is, its voice is actually softer than other cockatoo species. Filipino locals and pet owners describe their screeches as varying from "awwwk-awwwk", eeeek, owwwwk, or rouuuk. It makes a characteristic bleating call, as well as screeching or whistling noises that are common to most cockatoos. One unique characteristic of the Philippine cockatoo is its ability to mimick the human voice, which appeals to many cockatoo owners.  Their calls are almost deafening when several birds are calling together, especially in flight.

Getting Food

Cockatoos are not usually picky eaters. They are herbivores, feeding on seeds, and, to a lesser extent, on fruits, flowers, buds and soft bark. The species is very adaptable and even forages on crops, particularly rice in a half-ripe stage and corn. Therefore the cockatoo was formerly regarded as a pest. However, as pets, they can eat meats, dairy products, and veggies.

Reproduction

Philippine cockatoos wander in small flocks outside of the breeding season, and visits forest edges and nearby plantations for food. Mating season for the Philippine cockatoo starts in October. The birds travel pairwise and groom each other at the roosting site, which is often in trees 90-120 feet tall. Many choose coconut plantations as their nesting site. Nest holes are selected starting from end of December and the laying of eggs is recorded from the late February decade to early April, but usually peaks between the end of February and the beginning of March. The female cockatoo normally lays two eggs, which hatch after about 24 days.

Environmental Factors

The Philippine cockatoo seems restricted to lowland primary and/or secondary forest, in or neighboring to rivers or coastal areas with mangroves. Outside the breeding season (March-June, and occasionally February-August), it frequents both corn and rice fields scavenging the crops. The species solely depends on seasonally fluctuating food resources and is partially nomadic. They fly from the mainland to offshore islands to roost and breed. Forests serve as their habitats, though they wander in small flocks when it is not breeding season.

Origin and Distribution

The Philippine cockatoo is from, as well as only found in the Philippines, mostly found on the islands of Palawan, Mindanao, Sulu, Rasa Island, and Awitawi. Its climates are lowlands, rivers, and mangrove forests, but some live at the forest edge, open fields, and high in the mountains. They can be seen singly or in flocks of up to 30 or more. The species is widely distributed throughout the Philippines where it is widespread.

Importance to People

So far, no ecologically-positive factors have been discovered for the Philippine cockatoo aside from the fact that it is a part of the food web of the Philippines. Years ago, it was a very common bird in the Philippines, and was considered a pest. Because it was so adaptable to just about any environment in the Philippine archipelago, it would forage on crops, especially corn and unripe rice, which is critical to the Filipino economy. However, because of their intelligent human voice mimicking skills and adaptability to urban life, they have been illegally captured and sold as pets for a high price. Farmers especially dislike the cockatoos for the sake of their crops. However, there can be a use for these birds. Their diet of insects can be useful in keeping the ecological balance, as well as their intelligence. Perhaps one day, once they are common once more, they can be used for food or maybe even aid to the mute.

Survivability and Endangered Status

In 1994, the estimated population was 1,000 to 4,000 individuals (70-75% of which is believed to reside in Palawan). Isla Rasa holds the highest population density with 50-70 recorded individuals. There are probably only 800 to 300 birds left in Palawan and the species has had 60 to 90 percent decline in population in the late 10 to 15 years. The major cause of the rapid decline of its population is the unregulated collection illegal trade of this species which is very much in demand as a house pet and zoo animal. Habitat loss is also a major factor for this decline.

Potential Solutions

Possibility 1

Personal Pets/ Breeding

Is the Philippine cockatoo only a nuisance, or can there be a good use for them? Because of its scarcity, the Philippine cockatoo does not seem to have been tested for use. However, there can be uses for cockatoos in particular. Judging by the high risks of poachers who illegally capture and sell these birds as pets for a high price (varying from $160-$500), Philippine cockatoos make excellent pets. The great adaptability of the Philippine cockatoo has made it a popular pet.

Even though not much is known about the Philippine Cockatoo as a pet, the species is said to be no different from any other cockatoo. Some information distinguishes it from other breeds, including the fact it is often quieter and has better human voice mimicking skills than other cockatoos. The Philippine cockatoo is quite intelligent, making it a great bird show species. If the poaching can stop, as well as the illegal selling, these birds could become a common and cheaper household pet.

Advantages:

Philippine cockatoos are known for their easy going nature. They are quite "cuddly" and bond very closely with their owners and are known as being “the feathered teddy bear” of the parrot family.

Their intelligence, affection, adaptability, and lively playfulness make them excellent family pets.

Disadvantages:

Despite being a house pet, their screams can be piercing loud and carry a long distance, often annoying neighbors in nearby apartments. Cockatoos can be destructive chewers, unpredictable in temperament, easily get their feelings hurt, and get aggressive. Cockatoos require much personal attention and bore easily. Keeping them requires a lot of time. Cockatoos will never, ever be molded to your will. Cockatoos are not obedient. "No" to a Cockatoo means "try again later”. This attitude can be annoying to owners.

A healthy Cockatoo's skin has a white talcum powder that is said to be primarily calcium so it sticks to clothes and carpet. The dust can also irritate people with allergies. They can become very “stuck-up.” If it doesn’t get the attention it wants, it will scream to attract everyone’s attention.

Until the very small numbers of the Philippine cockatoo population rises, keeping a Philippine cockatoo will still be illegal (Many people who do own or sell these birds either bribe officials or just remain unchecked by the government).

Galah Cockatoo

The Galah Cockatoos (Eolophus roseicapillus) - also known as Rose-breasted Cockoatoos - are generally well-adapted birds that are found in abundance throughout central Australia. They are also becoming increasingly common towards the coastal regions.

They are usually seen in large flocks, often feeding with Sulphur Crested Cockatoos.

Galahs make wonderful, energetic pets and when trained with consistency have a good talking ability. These birds have an affectionate and bubbly personality and are extremely popular as pets.

They are very smart and enjoy human company, loving to learn new tricks and impress their owner. Being well adapted to the dry conditions of central Australia, the Galah is a hardy and robust bird that adjusts well to climatic changes.

They are also keen chewers and require toys or other forms of boredom relief to keep them stimulated and out of trouble. Pet galahs should always be obtained as hand reared birds from aviary-bred parents and once again, males generally make better pets than females. It is not advisable to obtain a pet Galah from the wild as these birds quickly revert to their wild behaviours and become difficult birds to keep.

Distribution:

The Galah Cockatoo is one of the most common and widespread cockatoos. It occupies open country in almost all parts of mainland Australia. Galahs are found in all Australian states, and are absent only from the driest areas and the far north of Cape York Peninsula. They appear to have been self-introduced to Tasmania.

They are common in some metropolitan areas, for example Perth and Melbourne, and common to abundant in open habitats which offer at least some scattered trees for shelter. The changes wrought by European settlement, a disaster for many species, have been highly beneficial for the Galah because of the clearing of forests in fertile areas and the provision of stock watering points in arid zones.

Description:

Galah Cockatoos typically measure around 14 inches or 350mm in length and weigh between 10 - 14 oz or 281 and 400 grams.

Galahs have a pale to mid grey back, a pink face and chest, and a lighter pink crest.

The most obvious external feature of a cockatoo is the erectile crest that raises immediately when alarmed or excited.

When the crest is lowered, the feathers fold back over the head and the crest is hardly visible.

As attractive as the cockatoo crests are, their major purpose is communication.

A raised crest can indicate that a cockatoo is displaying for its mate; defending its territory or its flock, calling its flock members; or a cockatoo may be expressing curiosity, excitement, surprise, fear or frustration. For those approaching a cockatoo -a raised crest may be a warning not to touch them - or else risk being bitten.

A lowered crest can indicate calmness, friendliness and general approachability.

Males and females look alike, differing only in eye color: the male has a brown iris, the female red.

Owners have described the Galahs to be surprisingly "undusty" for lack of a better word.  They are much less dusty than say african greys. Their pink and grey feathers feel soft to the touch.

Rose-breasted Cockatoo Mutation:

Below images courtesy of Eclod Exotics, a private aviary located in upstate New York.

Diet / Feeding

In their natural habitat, cockatoos typically feed on various seeds, nuts and fruits, such as papaya, durian, langsat and rambutan. As they are also feed on corn growing in fields, they do considerable damage and are, therefore, considered crop pests by farmers. (BirdLife International, 2001)

They also eat large insects, such as crickets (order Orthoptera) and skinks.

Captive birds are usually provided a parrot mix containing various seeds, nuts and dried fruits and vegetables. Additionally, they need to be offered lots of fresh vegetables, fruits and branches (with leaves) for chewing and entertainment.

Reproduction

Breeding Season

Cockatoos only breed once a year - usually between December and March, when vegetation growth is at its peak and food is readily available.

Courtship and Mating

As part of the courtship behavior, the male ruffles his feathers, spreads his tail feathers, extends his wings, and erects his crest. He then bounces about. Initially, the female ignores or avoids him, but - provided he meets her approval - will eventually allow him to approach her.

Once a female has accepted a male, the pair will be spend a good part of the day preen each other's head and scratch each other around the tail. This serves to strengthen their pair bond. Before long, the male mounts the female to perform the actual act of mating by joining of the cloacae. This ritual is usually longer in new pairs and much shorter in bonded pairs. In some instances, the female may even approach the male to initiate the act. Pairs usually separate from their group to find a nesting spot in trees.

Cockatoos form a close bond that lasts for a lifetime. If they are separated, they may slip into a deep depression. In absence of a "true" mate, they may accept a caretaker as its mate.

Goffin Cockatoo

The Goffin's Cockatoo can be a charming, playful and affectionate companion. It is the smallest of the cockatoos, which can be a plus for people who may not have adequate space for one of the larger cockatoos.

The Goffin Cockatoo has a shorter crest on the head than other cockatoos; the crest stands up when they are frightened or get excited during play. Goffin Cockatoos love people and like to cuddle, although they are usually less dependent than other cockatoos. They are very active, and need extended periods of time outside of the cage as well as a variety of toys to prevent stress that could lead to feather-picking and destructive behavior. Examples of good toys include foraging toys, soft wood toys, tree branches and rope toys for chewing, braided or knotted toys for undoing, bells and noisemaker toys, and brightly-colored acrylic toys.

Like other cockatoos, Goffins can be loud screechers, especially if they do not receive adequate attention or have things to keep them busy. Although they are not known for their talking ability, some Goffin Cockatoos can be taught to say quite a few words. Most Goffins respond to music and love to dance. They are very bright, love to play, and may quickly learn to open the cage door. This bird is small in size, but big in personality! If you are able to provide the time and stimulating environment they need, a Goffin's Cockatoo can be a delightful companion for years to come.

Family: Cacatuidae 

Origin: Indonesia (Tanimbar Islands) 

Size: 23-30 cm (9-12 inches), 300-400 grams 

Coloration: White, with salmon-pink highlights in front of the eyes and on the breast. The underside of the flight feathers and the tail have a yellow tint, as do the ear coverts. 

Diet: 65-80% high-quality commercial diet (pellets, crumbles or nuggets). The rest of the diet should consist of 15-30% vegetables and 5% fresh fruits. See Basic Nutrition for Psittacines (Parrot Family). 

Cage Size: 2' L x 3' W minimum 

Grooming: Trim flight feathers, beak, and nails as needed 

Compatibility/Disposition: Active, inquisitive, playful, affectionate; love human attention, but usually not as demanding as other cockatoos

Vocalization: Some do a lot of screeching, especially if bored, so provide adequate attention, toys, and time outside of the cage. Talking ability is variable. 

Playfulness: Usually love to play; like music and love to dance; like to climb; need considerable mental and physical exercise, including time outside of the cage 

Life Span: 40+ years with good care; probably much longer in the wild 

Age at Maturity: 2-3 years 

Nesting Sites in the Wild: Tree hollows 

Sexing: Adult females have a reddish-brown iris, males have a dark brown or black iris 

Special: Need large variety of toys and a good deal of attention to prevent feather-picking, excessive screaming, or destructive behavior. Very intelligent; can be escape artists.

Ducorps Cockatoo

The Ducorps' Cockatoo (Cacatua ducorpsii) is endemic to the Solomon Islands where it is common across most of the Solomons, absent only from Makira in the south. It inhabits lowland rainforests, secondary forests, cleared areas and gardens.

Description:

The Ducorp's Cockatoo is larger than the Goffin's Cockatoo but smaller than the Umbrella Cockatoo. Notable features of this cockatoo include a blue eye ring and a recumbent crest which resembles a sail in its raised state.

The Ducorp's Cockatoo as Pet:

The Ducorp's Cockatoo is reported to be intelligent and playful. They are quieter than most Cockatoos and make sweet pets given a right environment that takes into account their need for plenty of companionship / interaction and mental stimulation. Even though they are smaller than most other cockatoos (not as small as the Goffin's Cockatoo though), they are very active and need roomy cages and lots of toys.

Description:

Ducorp's Cockatoos grow to about 13 inches in length. Notable features of this cockatoo include a blue eye ring and a recumbent crest which resembles a sail in its raised state. They have predominantly white plumage although sometimes the hidden bases of the head and breast feathers have a carnation pink base. Their crests are round and very broad. Ducorp's Cockatoos have pale yellow undersides to their wings and tails. Their feet are gray and their bills are grayish-white. Males have dark brown or black irises, while females have more red coloration in their irises.

Breeding:

Ducorp's Cockatoos are quite rare in aviculture. Breeding pairs need an aviary of at least 12 x 6 x 6 feet in dimension.

Taxonomy:

Genus: English: White Black-billed Cockatoos ... Dutch: Wit and Zwartsnavelkakatoes ... German: Eigentliche Kakadus ... French: Cacatoès

Species: Scientific: Cacatua ducorpsii aka Plyctolophus ... English: Ducorp's Cockatoos, Solomon Island Cockatoos ... Dutch: Ducorps Kakatoe, Salomon Kakatoe ... German: Salomonenkakadu, Ducorps' Kakadu... French: Cacatoès de Ducorps

Black Palm Cockatoo

The Palm Cockatoo (Probosciger aterrimus), also known as the Goliath Cockatoo, is a large smoky-grey or black parrot of the cockatoo family.

It is the only member in subfamily Microglossinae and the only member of the monotypic genus, Probosciger. Its unique position within the cockatoo family has been confirmed by molecular studies (Brown and Toft, 1999, Astuti, 2004).

Distribution:

The Palm Cockatoo is distributed in rainforests and woodlands of New Guinea and northern Queensland, Australia. A majority of all captive-bred Palm Cockatoos are currently owned by Natalie Copp, David Roberts, Mike Tyson, Thomas Woodward and Ina Zuncke. The collective breeding program has been deemed a success by the Palm Cockatoo Conservation in Papua New Guinea.

Description:

The Palm Cockatoo is 55–60 cm (22–24 in) in length and weighs 910–1,200 gm. It is a distinctive bird with a large crest and has one of the largest bills of any parrots (only the Hyacinth Macaw's is larger). This powerful bill enables Palm Cockatoos to eat very hard nuts and seeds that other species have difficulty accessing. The bill is unusual as the lower and upper mandibles do not meet for much of its length, allowing the tongue to hold a nut against the top mandible while the lower mandible works to open it. The Palm Cockatoo also has a distinctive red cheek patch that changes colour when the bird is alarmed or excited.

Call:

The Palm Cockatoo makes four different kinds of vocalisations, including a "hellow" call that is surprisingly human-like. There are distinct dialects throughout the species' range. It has a unique display where the bird (typically the male) drums a large branch against a dead bough or tree, creating a loud noise that can be heard up to 100 m away. It is possible that females can assess the durability of the nesting hollow by the resonance of this drumming display.

Breeding

Palm Cockatoos only lay one egg and have one of the lowest breeding success rate reported for any species of parrot (Murphy et al. 2003). Off-setting this is their very long life-span. Captive Palm Cockatoos can live up to 90 years of age, but wild Palm Cockatoos are thought to live up to 40–60 years of age (Heinsohn et al. 2009, in press).

Breeding takes place inside tree hollows, which are typically like standing pipes. Fires play an important role in the destruction and creation of nest hollows. Fires allow the colonisation of microorganisms and termites which enter the tree and start hollowing out the inside. Cyclones are important in the final stage of nest hollow development.

Status

The Palm Cockatoo is still relatively common in Cape York, but is threatened there by habitat loss, particularly bauxite mining around Weipa and altered fire regimes elsewhere. Palm Cockatoos are hunted in New Guinea. This species is in high demand for the pet trade due to its unusual appearance. The Palm Cockatoo is currently evaluated as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. It is listed on Appendix I of CITES.

Blue Eyed Cockatoo

The Blue eyed Cockatoo (cacatua ophthalmica) is native to the forests of New Britain and New Ireland in the Bismarck Archipelago (Papua New Guinea in the western pacific ocean).; where they are typically found in subtropical/tropical lowland moist forests. They are typically seen in pairs or small groups. Blue-eyed cockatoos are very conspicuous when in flight due to their loud screeching calls.

Sadly, this cockatoo is extremely rare both in the wild and in captivity. Therefore, they are a now protected species (listed as Cites II - Endangered Species).

The Bare-eyed Cockatoo - also known as Little Corella is sometimes mistakenly referred to as Blue Eyed Cockatoo - however, these two are very different species and look quite different.

They are long-lived, with an average lifespan is 50 to 60 years. They reach maturity when they are about 3 to 4 years old

Description:

At maturity they will average between 45 and 50 centimeters (18-20 inches) in length and weigh between 500 and 570 grams (18 - 20 oz).

The Blue-eyed Cockatoos get their name from the blue circles of featherless skin around their eyes.

Their plumage is largely white, though a striking large yellow and white crest is seen atop their heads. The yellow feathers are behind the white and are often not seen until the crest is raised. Yellow can also be seen under the wings and tail feathers. The beak of the Blue Eyed Cockatoo is black.

Blue-eyed Cockatoo have zygodactyl grey feet (= the first and fourth toes of each foot are directed backward and the second and third forward. This allows this cockatoo to hold objects and bring food to its beak whilst standing on the other foot.

Males and females look alike; but sometimes can be distinguished by eye color. Males traditionally have a black eyes, while the female's tends to be reddish-brown; but this small difference is not a reliable gender indicator.

Juveniles of both genders have dark eyes.

Bare Eyed Cockatoo

The Little Corella, Cacatua sanguinea - sometimes referred to as the bare-eyed cockatoo - is endemic to Eastern, North-western and Northern Australia.

It is so common in its natural habitat that it has become something of a pest throughout much of Australia, as it can be destructive to the trees in which it perches by chewing the bark off smaller twigs.

The Little Corella congregates in flocks of up to several thousand birds, which often include many Galahs.

These cockatoos generally roosts in trees overnight, and fly off to feed in the early morning with an almost deafening screeching. It mostly feeds on the ground, eating seeds including cereal crops such as wheat and barley.

They can live 50 years or longer; however, most succumb to accidents or disease.  

Description:

The general plumage is white with a very short broad crest. The lores (the region between the eye and bill on the side of a bird's head) and base of the feathers to the head, nape (back of the neck), breast and back are orange-pink. The ear-coverts and feathers above the eyes are tinged dusky-yellow. The underside of the tail-feathers and wings are washed with yellow. The bill is greyish-horn color and elongated. The narrow periophthalmic ring is bluish-grey, extending to the upper cheeks. They have dark brown irides (= plural of iris) and grey feet.

Males and females look alike, except males tend to  be larger than females and have larger heads and beaks. Immature / young birds look like adults, but have a shorter bill and their periophthalmic ring is less blue.

Size:

Average length: 15 inches (36 to 40 cm); range between 14 to 17 inches.  Wing length 11.5 - 13 inches (288 - 330 mm). 

Weight:    10.6 - 16 oz (300-430 grams)

Training and Behavioral Guidance:

Bare-eyed Cockatoos are less demanding and noisy than most of the other cockatoo species, and are loved for their clowny, affectionate personality. Just like the goffins cockatoos, they make a good choice for people who would like a cockatoo that is somewhat easier to accommodate than the larger species. This does not, however, mean that keeping them caged all day without much attention is acceptable. There are many bare-eyed cockatoos in captivity who have developed severe behavioral problems under such sad conditions. They are loving and playful, and should be an integral participant in family life. This is not a "cage bird" - but a fun and extremely loving companion for the right bird owner.

Talking in general terms, cockatoos certainly demand a lot of attention, but are appreciated for their exceptionally loving, devoted personality that is second to none. Cockatoos require an extremely dedicated owner who is willing to provide significant and meaningful attention to these intelligent parrots. They require consistent training from a young age to ensure potential cockatoo owners enjoy a bird free of destructive and annoying habits.

Sulphur Crested Cockatoo

The Sulphur-crested Cockatoo is a large (to 500mm) white parrot with a distinctive yellow crest. The underwing and undertail are tinged yellow. The bill is dark grey-black, and the legs are grey.

Sexes are similar, although the female can be separated at close range by its red-brown eye. The eye is darker brown to almost black in the male. Young Sulphur-crested Cockatoos resemble the adults. 

The Sulphur-crested Cockatoo is similar in appearance to the two introduced species of corella that may be seen in Tasmania, however corellas lack the prominent yellow crest.

Habitat

Sulphur-crested Cockatoos are found in a variety of timbered habitats and are common around human settlements, cultivated areas, parklands, open pasture and croplands. The species has benefited from clearing, cropping and improved access to water. 

The birds stay in the same area all year round. The popularity of the Sulphur-crested Cockatoo as a cage bird has increased its range, as these birds either escape or are released deliberately in areas where they do not already occur.

Diet

Sulphur-crested Cockatoos have a varied diet of berries, seeds, nuts and roots, green leaves and stems, flowers, bark, bulbs, rhizomes and insect larvae. Feeding normally takes place in small to large groups, with one or more members of the group watching for danger from a nearby perch. 

When not feeding, birds may use their powerful bill to bite off smaller branches and leaves from trees. In urban areas, they can destroy timber decking and panelling on houses. This activity may help to keep the bill trimmed and from growing too large.

Breeding

The breeding season is from August to January. Two to three white eggs are laid in a suitable tree hollow upon a bed of wood chips, which is prepared by both sexes. Both birds also incubate and raise the chicks. The chicks remain with the parents all year round and family groups will stay together indefinitely.

Sulphur-crested Cockatoos are very long-lived, and can live upwards of 70 years in captivity, with birds of over 100 years having been recorded. They only live to about 20–40 years in the wild.

Umbrella Cockatoo

The umbrella cockatoo, also known as the white cockatoo or the great white-crested cockatoo, is well-known in bird circles as being one of the most affectionate and affable companion birds widely available on the market today. An Indonesian native, the umbrella is slightly smaller than the Moluccan cockatoo, but is not smaller in personality or charm. This out-going cockatoo is infamous for its outlandish antics and for being clingy with its owners.

The umbrella can be distinguished from other white cockatoos by its wholly white crest that raises like an umbrella when the bird is excited, agitated, or ready to play (or bite!). Both the beak and legs are a dark gray, and the feathers on the undersides of the wings and tail are light yellow.

Native Region / Natural Habitat

The umbrella cockatoo is native to the islands of Indonesia, where it lives in tropical rainforest.

Personality & Behavior

The umbrella cockatoo certainly makes a charming, affectionate pet, but it’s not for everyone. This bird can be as fickle as the weather, playing one minute and screaming and nipping the next. Birds will be birds, with all of their quirks and caprices, and umbrellas are no exception, though the informed umbrella owner is fortunate to live with this extraordinary bird that was named after something ordinary—and indispensable.

The umbrella desires nothing more than to cuddle with the object of its desire, and can become overly attached to other birds or objects in the pet shop, leading to serious disappointment when these birds or objects are sold—these birds are extremely sentimental! In the wild, the umbrella is never without a companion, and the captive umbrella has the same instinctual patterning to bond to a mate, or at least to have a special friend. The best way to make an umbrella cockatoo unhappy is to keep it in isolation.

Speech & Sounds

The noise level of this bird is extremely high. It is prone to bouts of loud screaming, especially if it is isolated, locked in a cage, or doesn’t get its way. Screaming is often a measure of the bird’s displeasure—the louder the more significant the disapproval of its circumstances. Many cockatoos are re-homed because of their superior voices. On the up side, the umbrella can be taught to talk and may acquire a vocabulary of more than 50 words, though most will not learn that many. Often, a bird that learns to talk may substitute screaming for talking—but not all of the time.

Care & Feeding

The umbrella  cockatoo is a long-term commitment for an owner—this species can live up to 70 years with proper care and attention. Unfortunately, many of these sensitive birds don’t live that long. They are prone to self-mutilation and the infections that result from that abnormal behavior.

Because this bird is large and hates being confined to the point of chewing and picking out its feathers, it requires a large space to live in, preferably an enormous, well-build cage with a top that opens into a playstand. An umbrella can’t live happily in a small space, and will become weary and apathetic or agitated and aggressive if confined.

The umbrella cockatoo owner should have experience with parrots before taking on this feathered handful. This is not a good first bird, nor is a good child’s pet. The umbrella also tends to become spoiled very easily, and will not take well to changes in routine, or additions to the family, such as an infant or new puppy.

Food for cockatoos should be nutritious, but should also include a foraging element as well. Cockatoos are fun-loving, intelligent and energetic parrots, and their food should reflect those traits. Wild cockatoos forage all day for seeds and nuts, as well as coconuts and grain crops. Like all companion parrots, cockatoos do not thrive on birdseed alone. Cockatoo food shouldn’t be boring to eat, either, and will love foods like Avi-Cakes, Nutri-Meals, Pellet-Berries, Nutri-Berries, and Lafeber’s Premium Daily Diet Pellets.

Another serious consideration for a new owner is the powder dust that these cockatoos emit, which can irritate those owners with sensitive respiratory systems or allergies. Use air purifiers if you have room for them, as these items help to cut down on the dust. Regular bathing with clear, warm water will also help.

Health & Common Conditions

Umbrella cockatoos are prone to picking at or pulling out their feathers is not offered sufficient mental stimulation. Other diseases/conditions found in cockatoos include psittacine beak and feather disease (PBFD), fatty liver disease and obesity if fed a diet too high in fat.

Mulucan Cockatoo

The Moluccan cockatoo is a favorite among bird fanciers due to its striking appearance and wonderful temperament. Moluccans are also called salmon-crested cockatoos because of the salmon-pink feathers that comprise most of their head crest, which they will display when they are excited, angry, afraid, or thrilled with something.

The Moluccan is a large bird, one of the largest white cockatoo species, but can range in size, reportedly because the region in which they are found in the wild is large enough to support sub species. The Moluccan cockatoo is a rosy-pink color, with the depth of the pinkness varying per individual. The feet and beak are black, but are generally covered with powder down, which make them look gray – don’t worry, this is absolutely healthy.

Native Region / Natural Habitat

Moluccan cockatoos are native to the south Moluccas and eastern Indonesia. The live in lowland forests and their wild diet includes seed, fruit, nuts as well as insects. 

Personality & Behavior

Moluccans would like nothing more than to be sewn to your body 24 hours a day. They crave attention and love, and can become pests because of this trait. They are not very good at “playing alone” and will constantly vie for your attention. If you have the attention to give, great – you will have a happy bird. They are the perfect bird for a shut-in, or someone who is home much of the day. All they want is to be held and cuddled all the time.

Like most cockatoos, Moluccans are incredibly sensitive and can become neurotic and upset when they are neglected. They are prone to self-mutilation due to this sensitivity, and they hate confinement—the owner of a Moluccan had better provide for a lot of out-of-cage time daily. A large play gym, or even a habitat-type enclosure would suit a Moluccan well. Moluccans are quite destructive, so be prepared to replace the play gym and perches often—and never let a Moluccan near your furniture.

Moluccans are not known biters, but they have very powerful beaks, and care should be taken around small children. Remember, even though your bird is sweet as honey (and Moluccans are), if it has a mouth, it can bite.

 Speech & Sounds

In terms of noise, the Moluccan cockatoo can out-volume and out-yell any other bird. They seem to scream for no reason, whether they are happy or afraid, and even in the middle of the night! Because of their loud voice, they seem to be given away or become neglected more than any other species of bird—it takes a very special household (and special neighbors) to be able to live peacefully with a Moluccan. They are not known to be great talkers, but they will mimic a few words—actually, they will be more likely to yell them. But talking is not why people love Moluccan cockatoos — this bird is most prized for its affectionate nature.

Care & Feeding

House your Moluccan in the largest cage you can afford because they are large birds and need a lot of space. The cage also needs to be sturdy enough to prevent a Moluccan cockatoo from destroying it.  These are very social animals, and get along well with each other, so if you are not home often, you may want to consider getting two. This should not affect their pet quality. However, nesting Moluccan cockatoos are notorious for killing their mates—they are known for bird-on-bird aggression in a breeding situation.

Food for cockatoos should be nutritious, but should also include a foraging element as well. Cockatoos are fun-loving, intelligent and energetic parrots, and their food should reflect those traits. Wild cockatoos forage all day for seeds and nuts, as well as coconuts and grain crops. Like all companion parrots, cockatoos do not thrive on birdseed alone. Cockatoo food shouldn’t be boring to eat, either, and will love foods like Avi-Cakes, Nutri-Meals, Pellet-Berries, Nutri-Berries, and Lafeber’s Premium Daily Diet Pellets.

Health & Common Conditions

Moluccan cockatoos are prone to picking at or pulling out their feathers is not offered sufficient mental stimulation. Other diseases/conditions found in cockatoos include psittacine beak and feather disease (PBFD), fatty liver disease and obesity if fed a diet too high in fat.

Macaws

What makes a macaw? Macaws are king-sized members of the parrot family and have typical parrot features. Their large, strong, curved beaks are designed to crush nuts and seeds. Their strong, agile toes are used like hands to grasp things. Loud, screeching and squawking voices help make their presence known in dense rain forests. They are also famous for their bright colors, which seem bold and conspicuous to us but actually blend in well with the green leaves, red and yellow fruits, and bluish shadows of the forest homes.

Macaws are built to fly through the trees in the forest, with a streamlined body and tail shape and wings that don’t flap deeply. When they come in for a landing, they drop their tail and feet downward and use their wings like brakes to slow down before grasping a perch with their feet. Most macaws nest in holes of trees or in earthen banks and cliff sides.

Macaws are intelligent and curious birds that like to explore and keep busy. They are very aware of their surroundings, which is necessary to keep watch for predators. As social birds, they spend a lot of time interacting with their mates and their family groups. Macaws have been known to use items as tools, and they like to play with interesting objects they find. They exam the objects from different angles, moving them with their feet, testing them with their tongue, and tossing them around. Macaws are also big chewers, something they need to do to keep their beaks in good shape. They can do impressive damage to even very hard wood with their beaks. Most macaw species like to take baths, and they play in the water as they splash around.

Screaming is a natural call for macaws. They do it to make contact with one another, to define territory, and even as part of their play. Their calls can be quite earsplitting to humans! Macaws can also imitate sounds, and macaws that live with or near humans often repeat words they hear, practicing to themselves until they get it right.