Description
Species Name: Sulphur-crested Cockatoo
Species Latin Name: Cacatua galerita
Sub Species Names:
Triton Cockatoo (Cacatua galerita triton)
Eleonora Cockatoo (Cacatua galerita eleonora)
Mathews Cockatoo (Cacatua galerita fitzroyi )
Greater Sulphur-Crested Cockatoo (Cacatua galerita galerita)
Native To: Wooded habitats in Australia and New guinea. Found in some islands of Indonesia.
Conservation Status: Least Concern
Photo Taken At: My Backyard
Size (length): 44-55cm (17.3-21.7 inches)
Weight: 800g (28.2oz)
Wingspan: 103cm (40.6 inches)
Lifespan: 40-100 Years
Top Speed: 70km/h (43.5 miles)
Description:
Sulphur-crested cockatoo's are large birds with white body consisting of white feathers that cover their entire bodies with exception to some feathers which may have a slight tinge of yellow. They have a bright yellow crest on the top of their heads consisting of long yellow feathers, they also have large black beaks and strong grey feet/legs. They have a white ring around their eyes, the females will have red tinted brown eyes whilst the males will have darker brown eyes.
Diet:
The Sulphur-crested Cockatoo's will mostly feed on a variety of berries, seeds, nuts, and roots. These birds can be accustomed to humans and in some cases can be hand fed (although it is often discouraged). These birds will often flock in small to large groups to feed together as a small number will stay perched to watch out for threats as the rest feed.
Behaviour:
These birds are naturally curious and highly intelligent and have adapted quite well to urban and suburban locations. These birds have learnt to open bins to scavange for food and domesticated Sulphur-crested Cockatoo's will dance to music with a variety of moves. These birds are rather long lived and can live for around 70 years or more in captivity however, in the wild they will live for about 20-40 years. These birds have a natural desire to chew wood and other hard organic materials in order to trim and maintain their beak. In some locations these birds are considered a pest as when they flock and feed in large groups it can lead to damage to various crops, newly planted tree seedlings, soft timber on houses, and outdoor furniture.
Further Reading (general information):
Wikipedia: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sulphur-…
Birdlife: www.birdlife.org.au/bird-profi…
Animalia: animalia.bio/sulphur-crested-c…
Australian Museum: australian.museum/learn/animal…
Backyard Buddies: backyardbuddies.org.au/backyar…