Yellow-crested Cockatoo

Yellow-crested Cockatoo key facts

Care level

Advanced

Lifespan

40-60 years

Size

33cm (308-380g)

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 aviary at least 4.5 m long is recommended. The nest box is vertical, about 30.5 x 30.5 x 61 cm or 30.5 x 30.5 x 91.5 cm. Provide bathing through overhead misters or a spray bottle.

Temperament

A powerful chewer that needs a constant supply of unsprayed fir, willow, pine and elder branches, wooden and vegetable-tanned leather toys and perches of varying thickness. Without enough social contact it readily develops stereotypies such as feather-plucking.

Vocalization

The call is a harsh screech, said to be less raucous than that of the sulphur-crested cockatoo but still loud, mixed with sweeter squeaky notes and whistles. Keeping one in shared housing is not realistic.

Notes

The species is an internationally endangered species and transfer requires a registration certificate for each bird. With a lifespan of 40 to 60 years it may outlive its owner, so arrange in advance who will take the bird on.

About Yellow-crested Cockatoo

The Yellow-crested Cockatoo is a 33cm white parrot known for its curling yellow crest and long 40-60 year lifespan. An advanced-level bird - here's what to know before bringing one home.

7 things to know before welcoming a Yellow-crested Cockatoo

1. 1For Experienced Keepers

   Yellow-crested Cockatoos are highly intelligent and emotionally expressive, but also demanding companions. They are generally not recommended as a first parrot, and suit keepers with prior experience caring for cockatoos or similar birds.

2. 2A Very Long Lifespan

   With a lifespan of 40 to 60 years, a Yellow-crested Cockatoo can be a lifelong companion. Before bringing one home, it's worth thinking through who will care for the bird over the decades ahead.

3. 3Loud Vocalizations

   Their expressive nature often comes with loud calls. If you live in an apartment or close to neighbors, consider soundproofing and be prepared for the noise that comes with this species.

4. 4Reading the Crest

   The yellow-to-orange crest fans forward and opens wide when the bird is excited or startled. Watching how the crest moves is a useful way to read your cockatoo's mood day to day.

5. 5Room to Move

   As a medium-sized parrot weighing 308-380g as an adult, a Yellow-crested Cockatoo needs a spacious cage plus daily time outside it to stretch its wings. Their strong beak also calls for sturdy perches and toys.

6. 6Find an Avian Vet

   Parrots often hide signs of illness, so it helps to find a vet experienced with birds before you need one. Get in the habit of watching your bird's appetite and droppings for early changes.

7. 7Building Trust Takes Time

   Although naturally affectionate, these cockatoos can take a while to settle into a new home or bond with new people. Patient, consistent interaction each day is the key to earning their trust.

Frequently asked questions about Yellow-crested Cockatoo

Q.Can beginners keep a Yellow-crested Cockatoo?

A.Their high intelligence and strong emotional expression make this an advanced-level bird. Prior experience with parrots, or thorough research beforehand, is recommended.

Q.How big does a Yellow-crested Cockatoo get?

A.Adults reach about 33cm in length and weigh 308-380g, making this a medium-sized parrot. The crest can make them look even larger when it's raised.

Q.How loud are they?

A.Their expressive nature means they can call loudly, especially when excited. If you live in an apartment or near neighbors, it's worth planning for soundproofing and noise tolerance.

Q.How long will I be caring for one?

A.Their lifespan of 40 to 60 years means a Yellow-crested Cockatoo can be a companion for most of a human lifetime. It's worth thinking ahead about who will provide care over the long term.

Q.Can they be left alone for long periods?

A.As an intelligent, social bird, a Yellow-crested Cockatoo can become stressed if left alone too often. Consider whether your daily schedule allows enough time for regular interaction before bringing one home.

Useful tools for Yellow-crested Cockatoo care

Learn more about Yellow-crested Cockatoo in the encyclopedia

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