Palm Cockatoo
NamePalm Cockatoo
Common NamePalm Cockatoo
Scientific NameProbosciger aterrimus
FamilyCacatuidae
Wingspan (cm)90
Length (cm)60
Weight (g)1050
Plumage DetailsEntirely smoky grey to black plumage, with a large, prominent erectile crest of narrow feathers. The bare skin patches on the cheeks are bright red, changing intensity with the bird's mood. It has a massive, dark grey to black bill.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of harsh, squawking calls, often described as 'raah' or 'kree-raah'. They also produce a distinctive, mournful whistling sound and can mimic other sounds.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatstropical rainforest, woodland, savanna
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, prominent erectile black crest, Bare red facial patches, Massive, dark grey to black bill, Overall dark grey to black plumage, Large body size
Description
The Palm Cockatoo is a large, striking black parrot known for its prominent erectile crest and distinctive red facial patches that change color with excitement. These intelligent birds are often found in tropical rainforests and woodlands, where they use their massive bills to crack open hard nuts and seeds.
