Moluccan Cockatoo These beautiful birds are naturally found in forested areas in the Moluccan Islands,where they
live in small flocks. These are the largest of the commonly kept cockatoos at 21-22 inches in length. Moluccans
are white or whitish/pink in color. Their crests can range from orange to red. These birds are very hard to keep as
pets, as they can be willful, stubborn, and spiteful. They are very sensative and are prone to feather plucking.
Their screaming can be heard for miles. Moluccan cockatoos are very similiar in nature to the Umbrella cockatoos , although
Moluccans are more aloof and sedentary. They cannot be kept in an apartment or condo. I do not recommend Moluccans as companions,
as they are too sensitive, too loud, and too big. There are very few people that can provide the care and attention
that these huge birds need.
Umbrella Cockatoo Not much is known about their natural habitat. These all white cockatoos reach 17-19
inches in legnth are and one of the the most commonly bought of all cockatoo species. Umbrella cockatoos are very close to
the Moluccans in nature, although the Umbrellas are a bit more active. They are also known as "love sponges" and typically
love everyone willing to give them attention. They are likely to develop behavior issues if not properly cared for. Umbrella
cockatoos are very misunderstood and often find themselves in rescues. They are very loud and can be quite destructive.
These cockatoos, along with the Moluccans, are very hard to keep as pets and should not go to anyone new to large parrots.
Not a good idea for apartment/condo living.
Greater Sulphur-Crested Cockatoos (includes the Triton) These parrots are found in open forested areas in
Australia, New Guinea, Tasmania, and rain forests. They are very big, reaching over 19 inches tall. These beautiful
parrots are white with yellow ear spots and crests. The undersides of the tail and wings are also yellow. These cockatoos
love to scream and are very destructive. They love to chew on everything.
Lesser Sulphur-Crested Cockatoos (includes the Citron) The Sunda Islands and Flores Islands are where you
will find the natural habitat of these guys. This species is the most popular of all cockatoo species. They are white
with yellow ear spots, crests, and the undersides of the tail and wings. Citrons have orange ear spots and crests. This species
is much smaller at 13 inches tall. They need alot of room, as they are terrific fliers. They are unpredictable and have
very strong beaks. Males are more prone to biting. As with the greater sulphur-crested, the lessers are also very destuctive
chewers and not a good idea in apartments.
Rose Breasted Cockatoo (or Galah) These parrots are commonly found in Australia and are known to be generally
destructive to crops, houses, etc.. They are a 13 inch tall grey bird with red undersides. The crest, head and neck are pink.
Rose breasted cockatoos are more prone to obesity. They can be very cautious and shy and tend to be quieter
than the other cockatoos and chew a bit less. They are one of the best cockatoo talkers and are very good mimics.
Bare-eyed Cockatoo New Guinea and Australia are the natural habitats for these cockatoos. They are 15
inches tall with white plumage. Some red tinges may be seen on the forehead, neck, and crown. These parrots are infamous
locksmiths and are very good at escaping their cages. They are more independent than their larger cousins and can find themselves
in lots of mischief. Bare-eyed cockatoos need a very large cage, as they are very active. These guys are loud
and wouldn't do well in apartments.
Goffins Cockatoo This species originates from New Guinea. At 12 inches tall, they are the smallest cockatoo
species. They have white plumage with yellowish undersides. These little clowns are not as popular as the larger
species. This species can develop unhealthy bonds that can result in behavior problems. They love to scream, even in the dark.
Goffins are also cautious to an extreme and can be unpredictable.
