The Galah Cockatoo (Eolophus roseicapilla), also known as the Rose-breasted Cockatoo, is a medium-sized, highly social parrot recognized by its stunning pink chest and face, with grey wings and back. Native to Australia, Galahs are popular for their playful personality, affectionate nature, and adaptability to family life when given proper care and enrichment.
Galah Cockatoo Characteristics
Size: 12–15 inches (30–38 cm) in length.
Weight: 270–350 grams.
Lifespan: 40–50+ years with proper care.
Color: Pink chest and face with a pale pink crest, grey wings, and back.
Temperament: Social, intelligent, playful, and active.
Galah Cockatoo Pictures
Personality and Behavior
Galah Cockatoos are intelligent, playful, and affectionate parrots, thriving on daily social interaction and mental stimulation. They enjoy learning tricks, engaging with foraging toys, and spending time with their owners.
Galahs are generally less demanding and less loud than larger cockatoos, making them suitable for many households while still requiring dedicated care and attention.
Without sufficient enrichment and socialization, Galahs may develop behavioral issues like feather plucking or excessive vocalization.
Diet and Feeding
A balanced diet is essential for a Galah’s health:
Pellets: High-quality pellets should be the primary diet component.
Fresh vegetables: Leafy greens, carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, squash.
Fruits (moderation): Apples, berries, mango, melon.
Seeds and nuts (sparingly): For enrichment and healthy fats.
Fresh, clean water daily.
Avoid avocado, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and salty/sugary foods.
Care Requirements
- Cage size: Spacious cage, minimum 24” x 24” x 36” with strong bars for climbing.
- Exercise: At least 3–4 hours of out-of-cage activity daily.
- Enrichment: Puzzle toys, ropes, chew toys, foraging opportunities, and training.
- Social needs: Requires daily interaction to prevent loneliness and boredom.
- Hygiene: Regular cage cleaning and opportunities for bathing or misting.
- Veterinary care: Annual avian vet check-ups for wellness monitoring.
Common Health Problems
Galah Cockatoos can develop:
- Obesity and fatty liver disease: If diet is too high in seeds and low in activity.
- Feather plucking: From boredom or stress.
- Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease (PBFD): Requires monitoring.
- Calcium deficiency: If diet is not well-balanced.
Monitor changes in your Galah’s behavior, feather condition, and appetite for early signs of health concerns.
Price and Where to Buy
- Price range: $1,000–$2,500 USD depending on age, breeder reputation, and location.
- Where to buy:
- Ethical, reputable breeders with health guarantees.
- Avian specialty stores with transparency on diet and care history.
- Parrot rescue organizations (Galahs are commonly rehomed).
Owning a Galah Cockatoo is a long-term commitment requiring daily care and socialization.
Are Galah Cockatoos Good Pets?
Galah Cockatoos can be excellent pets for owners prepared to offer daily interaction and enrichment.
They are social, intelligent, and playful, bonding well with their families.
However, they require dedicated time and care to remain healthy and prevent boredom-related behaviors.
Conservation Note
Galah Cockatoos are abundant in the wild in Australia and not considered endangered, but ethical sourcing from captive-bred lines or adoption from rescue organizations is recommended.