Palm Cockatoo
Image: Philip Griffin (cc-by-nc)
NamePalm Cockatoo
Common NamePalm Cockatoo
Scientific NameProbosciger aterrimus
FamilyCacatuidae
Wingspan (cm)85
Length (cm)57.5
Weight (g)1055
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is entirely smoky grey to black, giving it a formidable appearance. A distinctive feature is the large, bare, bright red patch of skin on the cheeks, which can change intensity with the bird's mood. It possesses a magnificent erectile crest of long, thin, spiky feathers.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include loud, harsh, and often mournful calls, such as a distinctive 'raah' or 'kree-raah'. They are also famous for their unique drumming sounds made by striking sticks against hollow trees, which serves as a territorial or courtship display.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatstropical rainforest, monsoon forest, eucalyptus woodland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNative to New Guinea and the Cape York Peninsula in far northern Queensland, Australia.
Identifying Featureslarge size, all black plumage, prominent erectile crest, massive black beak, bare red facial patch, drumming behavior
Description
This large, striking black parrot is characterized by its prominent erectile crest and a massive, powerful beak. It is known for its unique behavior of drumming on hollow logs or branches with sticks, a display often associated with courtship.
