The Cockatoo, or Kakadu parrot, is an extraordinary species known not only for its striking white plumage but also for its high emotional intelligence and energetic nature. Noted for their attachment to humans, mimicry skills, charm, and playful personality, these birds can become long-lived and loyal companions. However, owning a Cockatoo is a serious responsibility, requiring thorough knowledge of its needs. In this article, we examine everything you need to know about the Kakadu parrot in detail.

Origin and Natural Habitat
Cockatoos (family Cacatuidae) are typically found in Australia, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and surrounding islands.

• Their natural habitats include wooded areas, forests, and savannas.

• They live in flocks and are highly social animals.

• Most active in the mornings and evenings; morning calls in the wild are particularly loud.

• In the wild, they fly long distances and feed on tree bark and fruits.

Physical Characteristics
Cockatoos are elegant, large, and striking birds.

• Length: 30–60 cm depending on species

• Weight: 300–1000 g

• Plumage: Usually white, though some species may display pink, yellow, or grey tones

• Eye area: Typically bare of feathers

• Distinctive feature: movable crest on the head, raised during excitement, interest, or fear

• Beak: Large, curved, and strong; can easily crack hard-shelled nuts

Popular Cockatoo Species:

• Sulphur-Crested Cockatoo (Cacatua galerita)

• Umbrella Cockatoo (Cacatua alba)

• Moluccan Cockatoo (Cacatua moluccensis)

• Goffin’s Cockatoo (Cacatua goffiniana)

Character and Intelligence
Cockatoos are among the most emotional and attached parrot species.

• Extremely devoted and loyal to their owners

• Can become depressed or exhibit feather plucking if left alone

• Highly intelligent; capable of problem-solving, opening doors, and playing with toys

• Require daily attention, physical contact, and social interaction to avoid behavioral issues

• May display personality traits like jealousy or stubbornness

• Fun, affectionate, and entertaining birds

Speech and Mimicry
Cockatoos have the ability to mimic sounds, though this varies by individual.

• Umbrella and Moluccan types are among the best talkers

• Can imitate household sounds such as doorbells, phones, and music

• Vocabulary may be limited, but tone and expression are strong

• Training improves learning skills; patience and consistency are essential

Diet
Proper nutrition is essential for both the physical and mental health of a Cockatoo.

Recommended Foods:

• Specialized pellet feed formulated for Cockatoos, containing balanced vitamins

• Daily vegetables and fruits: carrot, broccoli, zucchini, spinach, apple, banana, grape

• Boiled legumes (lentils, chickpeas), small amounts of whole grains

• Small amounts of nuts: walnut, almond, hazelnut (fats should be given in moderation)

Foods to Avoid:

• Toxic foods: avocado, chocolate, alcohol, onion, garlic, caffeine

• Salty, sugary, or processed foods

• Spoiled, moldy, or rotten foods

• Fresh water must always be available

Cage Selection and Living Environment
Cockatoos are large and active birds, requiring spacious and secure environments.

• Minimum cage size: 100x100x150 cm

• Cage material: stainless steel with large lockable doors

• Inside: natural perches, sturdy chew toys, climbing ropes

• Provide several hours of free time outside the cage daily

• Rotate toys frequently to provide mental stimulation

• Cage should be placed in a social area of the home but away from drafts

Cleaning and Care
Hygiene is critical for a Cockatoo’s health.

• Wash food and water dishes daily

• Clean cage floor at least 2–3 times per week

• Disinfect toys and perches weekly

• Cockatoos enjoy bathing; provide spray or a bath container

• Allow exposure to sunlight after bathing to support feather health

Training and Social Interaction
Cockatoos are trainable but require patience.

• Training should begin at a young age

• Positive reinforcement can teach commands such as “come,” “stop,” “give paw,” and “kiss”

• Short, daily training sessions ensure progress

• Bonding with the owner facilitates learning

• Training develops faster with attention, affection, and trust

Health Monitoring and Veterinary Care
With proper care, Cockatoos can live 40–70 years.

Health Signs to Watch:

• Feather plucking or puffing

• Lethargy, loss of appetite, excessive sleepiness

• Changes in droppings

• Difficulty breathing

• Excessive screaming or aggression

• Annual check-ups with an exotic bird veterinarian are recommended; nail and beak care should be provided as needed

Breeding and Chicks
Cockatoos typically reach sexual maturity after 5 years.

• Compatible pairs may lay 2–4 eggs per year

• Incubation period: 28–30 days

• Chicks leave the nest at 10–12 weeks

• Breeding at home requires suitable environment, knowledge, and experience

Living with a Cockatoo: Expectations and Realities
Owning a Cockatoo requires long-term emotional and physical commitment.

• Demands daily attention, play, vocal interaction, and social engagement

• Very vocal; may scream, especially in the mornings

• Displays strong emotional responses; can be jealous or sensitive

• Under stress may feather pluck or have outbursts of anger

• Loyal, devoted, and will age with its owner

A Cockatoo is not just a bird but a companion, offering intelligence, charm, and emotional depth. With proper care and affection, it rewards owners with years of loyalty, love, and entertainment. However, this special species requires knowledge, patience, and responsibility. If you are ready, living with a Cockatoo can provide a lifelong friendship and happiness.