Sulphur-crested Cockatoo
Image: sturoy1 (cc-by-nc)
NameSulphur-crested Cockatoo
Common NameSulphur-crested Cockatoo
Scientific NameCacatua galerita
FamilyCacatuidae
Wingspan (cm)90
Length (cm)50
Weight (g)950
Plumage DetailsPredominantly white plumage with a distinctive, forward-curving bright yellow crest. There is often a pale yellow wash on the underside of the wings and tail, and pale yellow ear patches. The bill is dark grey to black, and the feet are dark grey.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its extremely loud, harsh, and raucous screeches and squawks, often repeated. They also produce softer chattering and whistling sounds.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, woodland, urban, agricultural land
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNative to eastern and northern Australia, New Guinea, and some Indonesian islands. Introduced populations exist in New Zealand, Singapore, and other areas.
Identifying FeaturesLarge white parrot, Prominent bright yellow crest, Dark grey/black bill, Loud, harsh calls, Often seen in flocks
Description
The Sulphur-crested Cockatoo is a large, striking white parrot easily recognized by its prominent yellow crest. These highly intelligent and social birds are often seen foraging on the ground in large flocks or roosting noisily in trees.
