Details
Cacatua galerita
The sulphur-crested cockatoo is a conspicuous white parrot of Australia and nearby regions. Diurnal social flocks are loud and mobile.
Map: Ecoregions 2017 © RESOLVE (CC BY 4.0) · Natural Earth (PD)
It uses forest, edges, farmland, parks, and urban trees. Large tree hollows and open feeding areas with seeds or roots are important.
Wingspan is about 90-103 cm and weight about 780-950 g. White plumage, a yellow crest, and a black bill make it easy to recognize.
Active by day, flocks commute between feeding and roosting sites. Birds are wary and call loudly when moving or alarmed.
It is herbivorous, eating seeds, nuts, fruit, roots, and shoots. The strong bill handles hard shells and woody material.
Pairs breed in large tree hollows. Chicks remain in the cavity for a long period while parents deliver food.
Its status is listed as Least Concern. It adapts well near people, though local crop and building damage can create conflict.
