Cockatoos - General Information

Cockatoos are native to Australia.  These magnificent creatures travel in large flocks of up to 50 birds, calling loudly amongst the flock.  Cockatoos are known to fly anywhere from 5-15 miles from their roost area in search of a safe place to forage for the day.  Cockatoos in the wild, feed on coconuts, seeds, berries, insects and insect larvae.

In general, cockatoos are very inquisitive. In order to keep a cockatoo happy and well adjusted, plenty of toys are essential. In the wild, cockatoos have been observed landing on a branch and immediately begins chewing on the very branch they are standing on. They love to turn wood blocks into what resembles toothpicks. I often tell my Goffin Cockatoo that he should get a job in a toothpick factory!

Cockatoos are frequently sought after because of their cuddly personalities. Keep in mind though that this sweet bundle of fluff can fool you. They may become extremely loud when calling, and this behavior can get out of control if proper boundaries are not established with the household.

As stated above, cockatoos can be quite destructive, they should not be allowed to roam your home unsupervised. Cockatoos also may become aggressive and unpredictable during sexual maturity. They are known to be cuddling one moment and all of a sudden turn around and bite their human.

Cockatoos enjoy tons of human interaction. The love to figure out puzzles and can also learn tricks.

Avian rescue shelters are over flowing with sexually mature cockatoos that have been given up for various reasons. It is important to ‘do your homework’ about the particular species of cockatoo before bringing one of these highly active and intelligent parrots into your home.