|
Scientific name: Cacatua alba
Description:
Greater Sulphur Crested Cockatoos are a full-sized cockatoo. They are
primarily white with long wide crest feathers that resemble and umbrella
when raised. The underside of the wings and tail is also frequently
tinged with yellow. They have black beaks and dark-grey feet.
Care and feeding:
A roomy cage is required (minimum 2 ft. x 2 ft. x 3 ft. high) unless
the bird is to be let out for extended periods. Many birds can spend
most of their time on a play pen or parrot perch. They eat a variety of
seeds, nuts, fruits, and commercial pellets, as well as the same
nutritional foods humans eat.
See
About Cockatoos: Housing
and
About
Cockatoos: Care and Feeding for more information.
Distribution:
Is found in Obi, Halmahera, Ternate and Tidore in the central and
nothern Moluccas, Indonesia.
Size - Weight:
Mature birds are about 30 cm (12 inches) in length. They are among
the largest cockatoos.
Social Behaviors:
In the wild, Cockatoos are friendly and peaceful. They are generally
seen in small groups among the treetops.
Breeding/Reproduction:
The hen will usually lay two eggs which will hatch in about 30 days.
Both parents will brood and the young will wean in about 3 months.
See
About
Cockatoos: Breeding for more breeding information.
Sexual differences:
Hard to tell with young birds. As they get older the iris of the
females' eyes will develop a reddish color, the males' eyes will remain
black. This is not always completely accurate so other means are
necessary if you need to know "for sure" what sex a particular bird is.
Potential Problems:
Cockatoos can be quite loud screechers. The behaviour can be reduced
by giving attention and proper surroundings. Also, since they are prone
to chewing, if they are not given enough attention they will chew their
own feathers.
Availability: These birds are
available from time to time.
Activities: Loves to climb and
play and chew. Provide lots of toys.
|