As a certified avian behavior consultant and long-time parrot rehabilitation specialist, I am often asked:

“How much does an Umbrella Cockatoo cost?”

The short answer:
An Umbrella Cockatoo is one of the most expensive parrots you can own, not only in purchase price but in lifetime care.

This guide breaks down realistic, expert-backed cost information, including:

• Purchase prices from breeders, stores, and rescues
• Annual care expenses
• Cage, food, toy, and veterinary costs
• Lifelong financial commitment
• Factors that influence pricing

This resource will help future owners make informed, responsible decisions.

1. Purchase Price: How Much Does an Umbrella Cockatoo Cost?

The cost of buying an Umbrella Cockatoo varies depending on age, source, and pedigree.

Average Market Price

Why Are Breeder Birds So Expensive?

Umbrella Cockatoos require:

• Hand-feeding over weeks
• Long socialization periods
• Specialized avian care
• Health testing
• Proper documentation (CITES regulations)

Ethical breeders invest thousands of dollars and hundreds of hours in proper care — reflected in the price.

2. Adoption vs. Buying: Why Rescues Are Cheaper

Umbrella Cockatoos are among the most surrendered birds in rescue organizations.
Reasons include:

• Noise level
• High emotional needs
• Behavioral issues
• Lifelong commitment (50–70 years)

Rescues typically charge lower adoption fees ($300–$800) to encourage responsible rehoming. Adoption also often includes:

• Health checks
• Social behavior assessment
• Counseling for new owners

Expert Insight:
More than half of the Umbrella Cockatoos I’ve worked with in rescues came from homes that underestimated their care needs. Adoption is often the most compassionate option.

3. Initial Setup Cost

Buying the bird is only the beginning. The setup cost for an Umbrella Cockatoo is significant.

Startup Costs Breakdown

Total First-Year Setup: $1,500 – $3,500 (excluding bird)

Umbrella Cockatoos are strong chewers, so cages must be iron-welded, powder-coated, and large enough to prevent feather damage or behavioral stress.

4. Yearly Cost of Owning an Umbrella Cockatoo

These parrots require ongoing expenses for their entire lifespan.

Annual Cost Estimates

Total Estimated Annual Cost: $1,750 – $3,700

5. Lifetime Cost of an Umbrella Cockatoo

Umbrella Cockatoos live 50–70 years with proper care.

Lifetime Financial Commitment

$80,000 – $150,000+

This includes:

• Food
• Toys
• Enrichment
• Veterinary care
• Cage replacements
• Emergency treatments
• Potential rehoming care

They are comparable to raising a human child in terms of long-term investment.

6. Factors That Influence the Bird’s Purchase Price

Several variables affect how much you will pay:

1. Age

• Babies (hand-fed): most expensive
• Adults: moderately priced
• Seniors: cheaper, often surrendered

2. Source

• Ethical breeders cost more
• Pet stores are overpriced
• Rescues are inexpensive

3. Temperament & Training

Birds with training (step-up, no screaming, friendly) cost more due to labor invested.

4. Health Status

A bird with chronic illness will cost less upfront but much more in veterinary bills.

5. Paperwork & Legality

Umbrella Cockatoos are regulated under CITES Appendix II, meaning sellers must follow proper import/export documentation rules. Legal compliance can increase price.

7. Hidden Costs New Owners Don’t Expect

Many cockatoo owners are surprised by:

✔ High toy consumption

Umbrella Cockatoos destroy wooden toys in minutes, not weeks.

✔ Noise complaints

Potential fines or forced rehoming.

✔ Behavior correction

Some require professional training ($300–$800).

✔ Feather dust impact

Air purifiers or additional room cleaning equipment are often necessary.

8. Should You Buy or Adopt an Umbrella Cockatoo? (Expert Opinion)

Buy From a Breeder If You:

• Want a baby you can hand-raise
• Prefer predictable socialization
• Are extremely experienced with parrots

Adopt From a Rescue If You:

• Want to help a bird in need
• Prefer lower upfront cost
• Are open to older or special-needs birds

Professional recommendation:
Adoption is the best choice for most people because Umbrella Cockatoos are one of the most commonly surrendered parrot species.

Conclusion: How Much Do Umbrella Cockatoos Cost?

Owning an Umbrella Cockatoo is a serious long-term investment, both emotionally and financially.

Summary of Costs

• Purchase price: $2,500–$4,500
• Setup: $1,500–$3,500
• Annual expenses: $1,750–$3,700
• Lifetime cost: $80,000–$150,000+

These magnificent parrots can be deeply rewarding companions — but only for owners prepared for a significant lifelong commitment.