Solomons Cockatoo (Ducorps's)

Solomons Cockatoo (Ducorps's) key facts

Care level

Advanced

Lifespan

40-60 years

Size

30-31cm (290-415g)

Diet

A mix of small seeds such as canary, oats and safflower, sprouted pulses, greens, fruit and vegetables, nuts and complete pellets

Cage

A walk-in enclosure or aviary at least 4.5 m long is recommended, with a nest box about 30.5 x 51 cm. The species is reported to be good at escaping, so doors and fastenings must be ones the birds cannot work.

Temperament

Playful and active, the birds raise the crest when agitated or excited. In the wild they fly above the treetops in pairs or small flocks and leave noisily when disturbed.

Vocalization

The call is harsh and somewhat screechy and can be continuous, and is said to resemble that of the little corella. It is loud enough that keeping one in shared housing is not realistic.

Notes

As a member of the Psittaciformes it is listed in CITES Appendix II and import requires an export permit. Because it is hard to breed in captivity and few are kept, check the breeding history and import record when acquiring one.

About Solomons Cockatoo (Ducorps's)

A small white cockatoo endemic to the Solomon Islands, about 31 cm long, with blue eye-rings, a downcurved bill, and a crest that rises when excited. Best suited to experienced keepers.

7 things to know before welcoming a Solomons Cockatoo (Ducorps's)

1. 1Best for Experienced Keepers

   Solomons cockatoos are considered a challenging species to keep. It's best to avoid taking one on as a first parrot and to build up experience with birds beforehand. Consulting an experienced keeper or breeder in advance is a good way to prepare.

2. 2Small but Sturdy Build

   Adults measure around 30 to 31 cm and weigh roughly 290 to 415 g, making them fairly compact for a cockatoo. Even so, they have a sturdy frame and strong flight ability, so it's important to provide enough out-of-cage space and perches that can handle their size.

3. 3An Expressive, Sail-Like Crest

   The crest normally lies flat but pops up like a sail when the bird is excited or startled. It's a useful cue for reading mood and interest, so pay attention to it as you get to know your bird's day-to-day expressions.

4. 4Plan for Vocal Behavior

   Cockatoos are generally loud birds, and Solomons cockatoos are no exception. If you live somewhere with close neighbors, such as an apartment, think ahead about soundproofing and the times of day your bird is likely to vocalize.

5. 5Needs Close Daily Interaction

   While affectionate and expressive, these birds can become stressed if left without attention for long stretches. They suit households that can dedicate consistent daily time to interaction, rather than ones where people are frequently away.

6. 6Manage Strong Beak Behavior

   Their downcurved bill is powerful, and chewing is a natural behavior. Providing appropriate toys and wooden items to gnaw on, while keeping cables and furniture out of reach during out-of-cage time, helps prevent damage and injury.

7. 7Research Thoroughly Before Bringing One Home

   As a species endemic to the Solomon Islands, domestic care information and firsthand accounts are relatively limited. Before bringing one home, it's worth asking breeders or specialty shops detailed questions about daily rhythms, diet, and typical behavior.

Frequently asked questions about Solomons Cockatoo (Ducorps's)

Q.Can a first-time bird owner keep a Solomons cockatoo?

A.Solomons cockatoos are considered a species best suited to experienced keepers. It's not recommended as a first bird — building experience with other species first is a good approach before considering one.

Q.How loud are Solomons cockatoos?

A.Cockatoos as a group tend to be loud, and this species is no exception. Depending on your living situation, you may need to plan for soundproofing or be aware of the times of day vocalizing is more likely.

Q.How big does a Solomons cockatoo get?

A.Adults reach about 30 to 31 cm in length and weigh roughly 290 to 415 g. That's fairly compact for a cockatoo, though their strong flight ability means adequate out-of-cage space still matters.

Q.When does the crest rise?

A.The crest normally lies flat but rises like a sail when the bird becomes excited or startled. It's a helpful cue for observing shifts in mood and emotion.

Q.Is this species subject to any regulation?

A.Solomons Cockatoo (Ducorps's) is listed in CITES Appendix II. International trade requires a permit from the exporting country, but as far as CITES is concerned, no registration is needed to buy or sell individuals already legally in Japan.

Useful tools for Solomons Cockatoo (Ducorps's) care

Learn more about Solomons Cockatoo (Ducorps's) in the encyclopedia

More in this category