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.
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