Palm Cockatoo
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, often appearing dusty. It features a large, erectile crest of long, thin feathers. The most striking feature is the large bare patch of red skin on the cheeks, which can flush deeper red when the bird is excited or alarmed.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include loud, harsh, and often mournful calls, such as a distinctive 'raah' or 'kree-raah' sound. They also produce various whistles and hisses.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatstropical rainforest, monsoon forest, eucalyptus woodland, savanna woodland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in New Guinea and its surrounding islands, as well as the Cape York Peninsula of northern Queensland, Australia.
Identifying FeaturesLarge, entirely black plumage, Prominent, erectile crest of long, thin feathers, Large, bare red facial patches, Massive, powerful black bill, Unique drumming behavior with sticks
Description
The Palm Cockatoo is a large, striking black parrot with a prominent erectile crest and distinctive bare red facial patches. Known for its powerful bill, it often uses tools like sticks to drum on hollow logs, a unique behavior among parrots.
