Read About Cockatoo Varieties

Cockatoo varieties exhibit some the most intelligent behavior among the entire parrot family. There are over 40 beautiful varieties of Cockatoo – more than enough to choose a wonderful family pet to suit household.

Cockatoo Varieties -- Facts

They belong to the cacatuidae family of the Aves class, and grow to about 12 to 14 inches in height and weigh less than 380 grams. They are among the most long-lived parrots, and some cockatoos have lived to 80 years of age.

There are over 40 cockatoo varieties. The most commonly known varieties are the Great Sulphur Crested Cockatoo, the Medium Sulphur Crested Cockatoo, the Lesser Sulphur Crested Cockatoo, the Major Mitchell, Rose breasted Cockatoo, the Citron and the Bare Eyed Cockatoo. The Sulphur Crested Cockatoo and the Rose Breasted Cockatoo are the most popular and well-known varieties. Cockatoos originated on the islands of the south pacific like Indonesia, Australia, New Zealand and New Guinea.

Cockatoos are similar to most parrots, with very powerful curved beaks and Zygodactyl feet (two forward toes and two backward toes). They are generally friendly and social with their owners and love to be patted and scratched. They are also curious animals who love to display themselves by spreading their wings and tossing their head to gain attention. They enjoy training time and are easily taught tricks and to mimic words.

There should be variety in a Cockatoo’s daily food regimen. A good pellet mixture with some seed and a lot of fresh water is just the most basic part of feeding. To ensure good health you must add various fruits, vegetables and soaked beans to a Cockatoo’s routine diet. Be sure to clean your Cockatoo’s food and water dishes daily, and never feed your bird chocolate or other human food.

While Cockatoos make wonderful pets, they are not without their drawbacks. They are very loving, but can become overly possessive of their master, and can nip at strangers or other “interlopers”. Cockatoos can also be very loud pets. They will screech if being ignored and may scream at every sunrise and sunset as if it is their duty to do so. If left alone and denied the attention they need, Cockatoos may also become very destructive. Only choose a Cockatoo if you have the time and energy to give them the attention they want and need.

When choosing a Cockatoo variety, look for a strong beak and full wings with no missing feathers. Check the cage your bird lives in for signs of fallen feathers or destructive behavior. Young cockatoos should be playful and vocal, without screeching or flapping around their cage constantly. This may indicate boredom, but may also be a sign of neglect or abuse.