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COCKATOO - are any of several species of crested parrots officially
known as Cacatuinae (family Psittacidae).
 Most
of the accepted 17 sub-species are white in plumage, with occasional
touches of red or yellow; and some less often seen sub-species are
even black. Cacatua (or Kakatoe) species are mainly white. The
Leadbeater's, or pink, cockatoo is washed with pink, and has a
yellow and red band that crosses its sweeping crest. Some of the
sub-species of Cockatoo that are most often desired as pets for
avian lovers are the Moluccan, Umbrella, Mobrella, Triton,
Bare-Eyed, Goffin, Citron, Lesser Sulphur, Medium Sulphur, Rose
Breasted and Eleanora Varieties.
These unique creatures originate in Australia and from Malaya to the
Solomon Islands. Many sub-species are specific to various locations
throughout their native regions. Most cockatoo species are well
adapted to dry climates. The major exception is that of the Palm
Cockatoo, which is most at home in tropical rainforest habitats.
Characteristics and Personality
All Cockatoo Parrots have a massive crescent shaped beak for
cracking nuts, digging up roots and prying grubs from wood; in
addition to having a worm-like tongue to assist them with these
tasks. Cockatoos are generally treetop, hole-nesting birds when in
their native habitat.
 Cockatoos
are highly social birds. It is natural for them to seek
companionship and to frequently communicate with others of their
flock. If your family has more than one bird, of any species, your
cockatoo will quite likely "communicate" with it. They are also very
intelligent birds and require a great deal of stimulation. Cockatoos
are not particularly favored for traits such as talking, but admired
for their tremendous affection and loyalty. They are highly animated
birds and can be readily trained to do tricks. They are extremely
vocal birds that will in the morning and evening, and are not ideal
as pets for apartment dwellers, for this reason. Almost child-like
in behavior your Cockatoo will require a great deal of attention,
but will quickly earn your love and adoration! The amount of
attention that the cockatoo demands is much more a pleasure and like
spending time with a beloved member of the family, than a task.
Cockatoos, well nicknamed "Toos" are known as one of the most
affectionate species of parrot. In their natural habitat they
usually bond for life. It is this characteristic which endears them
to us and allows them to so love humans.
Palm Cockatoos
 Natively from northeastern Australia, New Guinea, and the Aru
Islands, The Palm Cockatoo (or great black cockatoo) is the largest
of all cockatoos, measuring in at 25 to 30 inches long; and it also
happens to hold the distinction of being that with the biggest beak
among psittaciform birds! Facial color in these birds may vary
depending upon several factors including stress level, general
health, and environment. The Palm cockatoo has a threadlike crest,
and its red cheeks turn blue when it is excited. A healthy palm
cockatoo will have powder, but to a much lesser extent than that of
the white cockatoo species. Unlike their highly social counterparts,
the Palm Cockatoo prefers it's own company and will generally be
found by itself, in pairs or in a very small group of other Palms.
 Umbrella
Cockatoos
UMBRELLA COCKATOOS, also known as White-Crested Cockatoos, are
completely white along their exterior, top feathers and have a
delicate shade of yellow beneath their wings and tail feathers. With
a pure white, exceptionally wide crest that is normally flat against
the head, the Umbrella Cockatoo unfolds it's feathers in a dramatic
display much to the delight of their fans and owners; this being the
origin of the name, "Umbrella".
 Umbrella
Cockatoos sport deep grey to black beaks, legs and feet which will
quite often appear to be a lighter shade due to a covering of
cockatoo "powder".
In your healthy cockatoo, "powder" will be ever present. It has a
silky feel, and should be evident upon petting or handling your
bird. The "powder" is critical to your birds well being. After
washing or misting, powder will be produced as the bird's feathers
dry and this will become apparent by the dust on its beak as it
preens. If your cockatoo is not producing powder you should consider
visiting a trusted avian veterinarian for an examination to rule out
any underlying health problems or conditions.
 Triton
Cockatoos
TRITON COCKATOOS - A sub-species of the Greater Sulphur Crested
Cockatoo, the Triton Cockatoo is often mistaken for it's larger
cousin because they are so similar. The most notable differences are
in size and color. The Greater Sulphur is a larger bird (20 to 22
inches) compared to the Tritons more compact size (16 to 18 inches)
and the Triton Cockatoo has a blue "eye ring" not found it the
Greater Sulphur Cockatoo. The Triton Cockatoos make excellent pets
and owning one involves a life long commitment because of their
longevity. In keeping with most Cockatoos, Tritons love to chew.
Wooden toys and natural wood are recommended to keep them happily
entertained. Tritons can learn to talk but the real charm is their
affectionate and loyal nature. They adore being held and petted and
will often raise their wings to be scratched just where they enjoy
it most. Your Triton will hold back nothing in expressing his love
for you, and expects the same in return!
  Dietary Needs of the Cockatoo
Like all of our birds, Cockatoos require sufficient amounts of
Vitamin "A" (Beta Carotene) and Calcium. Beta Carotene sources that
appeal to your Cockatoo include the following foods: Winter and
Yellow Squash varieties, Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, Red Peppers, Green
Beans, Green Peas, Broccoli, Kale and other Green Leafy Vegetables,
and so on. Your Cockatoo will also need fresh fruits and of course
fresh water at all times. We also use with all of our Blue Sky
Birds, Coconut oil, and highly recommend it. This offers many
benefits. |
