The Sulphur-crested Cockatoo (Cacatua galerita) is a large, highly intelligent parrot known for its expressive yellow crest and playful personality. Native to Australia, New Guinea, and nearby islands, this cockatoo is a popular pet due to its social nature, talking ability, and strong bond with its owners.
Sulphur-crested Cockatoo Characteristics
Size: 17–20 inches (44–51 cm) in length.
Weight: 800–1,000 grams.
Lifespan: 50–80+ years with proper care.
Color: White plumage with a bright yellow crest and yellow wash under the wings.
Temperament: Intelligent, playful, social, and loud.
Sulphur-crested Cockatoo Pictures
Personality and Behavior
Sulphur-crested Cockatoos are social, affectionate, and intelligent parrots requiring daily mental stimulation and interaction. They are playful, love to climb, and enjoy learning tricks, often forming strong bonds with their human family.
They are also extremely vocal, producing loud calls that can be heard over long distances, making them unsuitable for noise-sensitive environments.
Without adequate stimulation and social interaction, they may develop behavioral issues like feather plucking, screaming, or destructive chewing.
Diet and Feeding
A balanced, varied diet is crucial for the Sulphur-crested Cockatoo’s health:
Pellets: High-quality pellets should form the staple diet.
Fresh vegetables: Kale, spinach, carrots, bell peppers, squash, broccoli.
Fruits (in moderation): Apples, mango, berries, papaya.
Nuts and seeds: For enrichment and healthy fats, but given sparingly.
Fresh, clean water daily.
Avoid avocado, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and salty or sugary foods.
Care Requirements
- Cage size: Large cage or aviary, minimum 36” x 24” x 48” with strong bars.
- Exercise: At least 4 hours of out-of-cage time daily for exercise and mental stimulation.
- Enrichment: Foraging toys, puzzle feeders, chew toys, ropes, and ladders to keep them engaged.
- Social needs: They thrive on daily interaction and training with their owners.
- Hygiene: Regular cage cleaning and opportunities for bathing or misting.
- Veterinary care: Annual avian vet check-ups for wellness and diet monitoring.
Common Health Problems
Sulphur-crested Cockatoos may experience:
- Feather plucking: Often due to stress, boredom, or lack of socialization.
- Obesity: If diet is unbalanced or exercise is insufficient.
- Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease (PBFD): A serious viral infection requiring monitoring.
- Respiratory infections: From dusty environments or poor ventilation.
Monitor for behavioral changes, appetite loss, or changes in droppings and feather condition, and seek veterinary care as needed.
Price and Where to Buy
- Price range: $1,500–$3,500 USD depending on age, breeder reputation, and location.
- Where to buy:
- Reputable, ethical breeders specializing in hand-raised cockatoos.
- Avian specialty stores with clear health records.
- Rescue and adoption organizations (Sulphur-crested Cockatoos are commonly rehomed).
Sulphur-crested Cockatoos require lifelong commitment and significant daily care.
Are Sulphur-crested Cockatoos Good Pets?
Sulphur-crested Cockatoos can be wonderful pets for experienced bird owners prepared to offer daily attention, enrichment, and training.
They are affectionate, intelligent, and social, forming strong bonds with their families.
However, they are loud and require consistent care, making them best suited for owners with time and experience.
Conservation Note
The Sulphur-crested Cockatoo is not endangered, but some subspecies are affected by habitat loss and illegal trade. Always purchase from ethical, captive-bred sources or consider adopting to support responsible ownership.