


What the above means, for example, is that a Moluccan cockatoo is more closely related to most other cockatoos, like galahs or corellas, than to cockatiels. This places them on a different “branch of the tree” than cockatiels. Most other cockatoos are members of the subfamily Cacatuinae (the exception are Calyptorhynchinae, the black cockatoos). However, despite all their similarities, it has been established through molecular research that within the cockatoo family, the cockatiels make up a category of their own. And that’s not surprising, since they tick all the boxes that separate cockatoos from other parrots: they have the typical crest, dusty down feathers, no genetic possibility of blue or green coloration and feathers covering the sides of the beak (Brown & Toft, 1999). So what does all the family and subfamily stuff mean? Basically, cockatiels are indeed also cockatoos.

Hollow eucalypt logs are best suited for nest boxes and should be approximately 30-40 cm in internal diameter and about 1m in length.A simplified tree showing where cockatiels fall in comparison to other cockatoos. Similarly, the frame should be constructed of steel to avoid the birds chewing the structure away. The aviary wire should be a heavy-duty grade, as cockatoos can easily chew holes through lighter grade wire. The best breeding results are achieved when one pair per aviary is kept. Due to its highly contagious nature to other parrot species, it is advisable to avoid any bird suspected of having this condition.Ĭockatoos generally require an aviary no less than four to six metres long by one to two metres wide. The beak is also affected and becomes fragile and does not repair itself. PBFD is chronic and incurable and results in poor feather growth and ultimately, complete feather loss.

The black cockatoos are less susceptible to this disease. Psittacine beak and feather disease (Circovirus infection or PBFD) is a problem that is frequently encountered in the white cockatoo species. For this reason, cockatoos can be a challenging bird to keep and therefore require a committed owner who is willing to provide continuing obedience training. These friendly birds are good talkers but also possess the ability to make loud screaming noises. Cockatoos deprived of this affection may become loud and develop unwanted behaviours. They have great characters, a "cuddly" nature and enjoy physical interaction with their owner. With a lifespan of up to 120 years with some cockatoo species, these birds make wonderful life long friends. However, these birds require an extremely dedicated owner who is willing to provide significant and meaningful attention to this highly intelligent species. Hand reared male Red Tailed Black Cockatoos are generally less prone to bite and make better pets, especially for younger owners, for this reason.
Cockatoo pet parrot free#
Consistent training from a young age will help ensure potential cockatoo owners enjoy a bird free of this destructive habit.
Cockatoo pet parrot crack#
The strong, heavy beak of the cockatoo is used to crack large seeds but can also produce a powerful and destructive bite. The most obvious external feature of any cockatoo is the erectile crest that raises immediately after alighting and when alarmed or excited.
