Cockatoo

Probosciger aterrimus-20030511

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Calyptorhynchus latirostris -Taronga Zoo (female)-8a

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Cacatua leadbeateri -flying -Australia Zoo-8-2cr

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Cacatua galerita -perching on branch -crest-8a-2c

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Callocephalon fimbriatum (pair) -NSW -Australia-8

Cockatoo refers to any of the 21 parrot species belonging to the family Cacatuidae, native to Australia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, and the Solomon Islands. These birds are distinguished by their showy crests and curved bills. Their plumage is primarily white, grey, or black, and many species have patches of color on their cheeks or tail. Cockatoos are versatile, found in a variety of habitats including rainforests, shrublands, and even urban areas.

Description

Cockatoos range in size from medium to large, with the smallest species, the Cockatiel, measuring around 30 cm in length, and the largest, the Black Palm Cockatoo, reaching up to 60 cm. They are notable for their strong, curved bill used for cracking nuts and seeds, their zygodactyl feet (two toes facing forward and two backward), and their distinctive movable head crest, which they can raise or lower at will.

Behavior

Cockatoos are highly social birds, often seen in flocks in the wild. They have a complex social structure and communicate with a variety of calls, screams, and songs. These birds are known for their intelligence and ability to mimic sounds, including human speech. In the wild, cockatoos form strong pair bonds and are often monogamous. They nest in tree hollows, where they lay a small number of eggs that both parents incubate and care for.

Diet

The diet of cockatoos is varied and includes seeds, nuts, fruits, berries, and roots. Some species also eat insects and their larvae. Cockatoos have a strong bill and a special tongue adapted to their diverse diet, allowing them to manipulate and extract food efficiently.

Conservation

Several cockatoo species are facing threats from habitat loss, illegal pet trade, and climate change. The Yellow-crested Cockatoo and the Red-vented Cockatoo are among those listed as critically endangered. Conservation efforts include habitat protection, breeding programs, and laws against illegal trapping and trade.

In Captivity

Cockatoos are popular as pets due to their striking appearance, intelligence, and affectionate nature. However, they require a significant amount of attention, mental stimulation, and space to thrive in captivity. Potential owners should be aware of the long lifespan of cockatoos, with some species living up to 60 years or more in captivity.

Species

Some notable species of cockatoos include:

• Galah or Rose-breasted Cockatoo
• Sulphur-crested Cockatoo
• Cockatiel
• Major Mitchell's Cockatoo
• Black Palm Cockatoo

See Also

• Parrot
• Bird conservation
• Aviculture