Palm Cockatoo
Image: <a rel="nofollow" class="external text" href="https://www.flickr.com/people/77524419@N03">Jim Bendon</a> from Karratha, Australia (CC BY-SA 2.0)
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, with a large, prominent erectile crest of feathers on its head. The most distinctive feature is the bare, unfeathered skin patch on its face, which is typically bright red or pinkish-red and can change intensity with the bird's mood.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a variety of loud, piercing calls, including a distinctive 'raah' or 'kree-raah' sound, as well as softer whistles and growls. They are also famous for their unique drumming behavior, where they use a stick to beat against a hollow log or branch.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatstropical rainforest, eucalyptus woodland, savanna woodland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNative to New Guinea, the Aru Islands, and the Cape York Peninsula of Australia. In Australia, their range is restricted to the northern tip of Cape York.
Identifying Featureslarge black plumage, prominent erectile crest, bare red facial patch, large grey-black beak, distinctive drumming behavior
Description
This large, striking black cockatoo is characterized by its prominent erectile crest and bare red facial patches. It inhabits tropical rainforests and woodlands, where it uses its powerful beak to crack open hard nuts and seeds, and to excavate nest hollows in trees.
