

The lesser sulphur-crested cockatoo looks similar to the (greater) sulphur-crested cockatoo, occupies a different geographic range, and is not a typical pet bird. TemperamentĬockatoos are an affectionate species among the various types of parrots the sulphur-crested is typical in this regard. You must be willing to devote the time and energy to form a strong bond with a bird. A sulphur-crested cockatoo loves to be handled but also needs enough alone time to learn self-sufficiency, which is no small feat. This bird is a more emotionally complicated pet species than other cockatoos and is prone to sudden, unpredictable movements that can be startling, although the intent is rarely aggressive. This demanding bird can become self-abusive and destructive if it does not get the attention it needs. So we consider them as one of the most intelligent parrots. They have the learning capacity of a 1- to 2-year-old human child and can learn to talk and do tricks. Young birds will be easiest to train and socialize. These birds are excellent mimics and can quickly learn to speak words and phrases. The sulphur-crested cockatoo also has a piercingly loud shriek. Sulphur-Crested Cockatoo Colors and Markings This species is not well-suited to apartment living as its noisiness can be considered a nuisance to close neighbors. Sulphur-crested cockatoos are primarily white with black beaks. They sport a beautiful crest of yellow feathers on top of their heads. It has a yellow wash on the underside of its wings. The sexes look similar, although the female can be distinguished at close range by its reddish-brown eye. The male’s eyes are darker brown or black. This distinction does not become apparent until the bird has reached maturity, which varies between 3 to 5 years of age. Sulphur-crested cockatoos are large birds that need very spacious enclosures. At a minimum, the cage should have a footprint of about 40 inches by 40 inches and at least 5 feet tall. A bigger cage is better, and best of all is an aviary environment.

Lesser sulfur crested cockatoo wings skin#
Reader's Digest (Australia) Pty Ltd, Sydney.The birds naturally emit a downy powder, which aids in keeping their wings and skin healthy. Reader's Digest Complete Book of Australian Birds (2nd Edition). Angus and Robertson/National Photographic Index of Australian Wildlife, Sydney. The species has become a pest around urban areas, where it uses its powerful bill to destroy timber decking and panelling on houses. The popularity of the Sulphur-crested Cockatoo as a cage bird has increased its range, as these birds either escape or are released deliberately in areas where they do not already occur. Breeding Season: August to January in the south May to September in the north.The chicks remain with the parents all year round and family groups will stay together indefinitely. Both birds also incubate and care for the chicks. The eggs are laid in a suitable tree hollow, which is prepared by both sexes. The most common call is a distinctive loud screech, ending with a slight upward inflection. The activity may help to keep the bill trimmed and from growing too large. When not feeding, birds will bite off smaller branches and leaves from trees. Feeding normally takes place in small to large groups, with one or more members of the group watching for danger from a nearby perch. The Sulphur-crested Cockatoo's normal diet consists of berries, seeds, nuts and roots.
