Cockatoos in Australia
As a kid growing up in country Victoria, we were lucky to have our own sulphur-crested cockatoo aptly named ‘Cocky’. I also remember my Grandma having a galah or cockatiel flying around her kitchen at various times. They were different times back then, and I don’t agree with having big birds in cages as pets now, but that doesn’t mean we can’t admire the incredible array of birds Australia has to offer.
There are currently fourteen species of cockatoo gracing our great southern land. Cockatoos are parrots, members of the Cacatuidae family. Cockies are bold, beautiful, and intelligent birds that come in an array of colors and personalities, making them a true delight for bird lovers and casual admirers alike. Enjoy…
White Cockatoos
Sulphur-crested Cockatoo (Cacatua galerita)
When you think of cockatoos, the Sulphur-crested Cockatoo is probably the one that pops into mind. These guys are the classic white cockatoos with a bright yellow crest that they flick up like a mohawk. They’re super smart and love getting up to mischief, especially in cities where they’ve adapted to human life. They’re loud, too—one moment it’s a cheerful chirp, and the next it’s a squawk that could wake the dead. Gotta love them, though
Little Corella (Cacatua sanguinea)
The Little Corella might be small, but it’s got a massive personality. Between the fleshy blue eye-ring and bill, the feathers are a pale rose-pink. Its white underwing feathers with a hint of yellow give it a clean, elegant look, but don’t let that fool you—they’re cheeky and love a good play. You’ll often find them in big noisy flocks, especially in the suburbs, where they’ve made themselves quite at home.
Long-billed Corella (Cacatua tenuirostris)
This one’s hard to miss with its long beak and a splash of pink and red around its face. They’re like the diggers of the cockatoo world, using their fancy bills to forage for seeds and roots. They’re also super gentle, which makes them a favourite among birdwatchers. Their territory has been increasing since the 1970s but they are primarily found in the extreme south-east of Australia, including South Australia, Western Victoria, and southern New South Wales. They have also established populations in other parts of eastern Australia, possibly from escaped cage birds.
Western Corella (Cacatua pastinator)
Western Corellas are a charming cockatoo species native to southwestern Australia. Their pure white feathers with a hint of pale yellow under their wings and the pink-red colouring between eye and beak, are typical of the Corella style. These birds are sociable and often gather in flocks, filling the air with their lively chatter. Known for their playful nature, they’re quick to adapt to changing environments and are skilled at foraging for seeds and fruits. Western Corellas bring a touch of whimsy to the landscapes they call home!
Black Cockatoos
Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus latirostris)
Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo is a striking and unique bird found in southwestern Australia. With their sleek black feathers, white cheek patches, and distinctively short crest, they’re an elegant sight gliding through the skies. These cockatoos have a soft, mournful call that adds a haunting beauty to the bushland. Known for their love of banksia and eucalyptus seeds, they play a crucial role in spreading native plants. Sadly, they’re under threat due to habitat loss, but conservation efforts are working hard to ensure these stunning birds remain part of Australia’s wildlife tapestry.
Baudin’s Black Cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus baudinii)
Baudin’s Black Cockatoo is a beautiful and fascinating bird found in the forests of southwestern Australia. With their glossy black feathers, white cheek patches, and a long, slender bill, you can see why they were once considered the same species as Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo. Due to differences in call, beak, diet and habitat, Baudin’s Black Cockatoo were categorised as a separate species in 1979. These cockatoos are tree-dwelling foodies, feasting mostly on the seeds of native plants like marri and jarrah. They’re usually seen in small, chatty flocks, and their gentle, high-pitched calls are a sweet sound in the bush. Sadly, they’re under pressure from habitat loss, but conservation efforts are underway to protect these unique birds.
Red-tailed Black Cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus banksii)
These are the goth kids of the cockatoo world, with sleek black feathers and bright red tail panels. They’ve got these haunting calls that sound like they belong in a movie soundtrack about the wilderness.
Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus funereus)
Equally as striking as their red-tailed cousins, these guys have yellow streaks on their tails and cheeks, standing out against their black feathers. They’re graceful and love hanging out in forest canopies.
Glossy Black Cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus lathami)
The smallest of the bunch but no less cool. They’ve got glossy feathers and subtle red tail patches. These ones are picky eaters, relying almost entirely on casuarina trees for their food.
Other Cockatoo Species in Australia
Major Mitchell’s Cockatoo (Lophochroa leadbeateri)
This one’s a stunner. Also known as the Pink Cockatoo, Major Mitchell’s Cockatoo looks like it belongs on the cover of a nature magazine. Its feathers are a dreamy mix of soft pink and white, with a crest that’s a showstopper—orange, yellow, and red all in one. These birds are more chilled out than their louder cousins and are often spotted in the outback near water. They’re lovebirds, too—most of them stick with their partners for life. How romantic is that?
Read more about Major Mitchell’s Cockatoos here: Don’t You Think Major Mitchell’s Cockatoos are Sweet?
Galah (Eolophus roseicapilla)
The Galah is the ultimate Aussie larrikin of the bird world. With their pink and grey feathers, they’re not just pretty—they’re also full of energy and love a good chat. You’ll often see them in big flocks, squawking and having what looks like a party in the trees. They’re everywhere, from the coast to the bush, and they’ve got that laid-back, resilient vibe that just screams “Aussie spirit.”
Gang-gang Cockatoo (Callocephalon fimbriatum)
Gang-gang Cockatoos are quirky little birds that stand out with their adorable fluffy crests. The males are especially striking, with slate-grey bodies and bright red heads, while the females keep it classy with grey and flecked plumage. Native to southeastern Australia, these cockatoos love hanging out in cool, forested areas. They’re known for their cheeky personalities and soft, creaky-door-like calls, which are oddly endearing. Gang-gangs are tree hollows enthusiasts and nest in them, making them an essential part of their ecosystems. They’re a true Aussie gem!
Palm Cockatoo (Probosciger aterrimus)
The Palm Cockatoo is in a league of its own. Jet-black feathers, a massive crest, and a beak that looks like it could crack a coconut—it’s got serious wow factor. These birds live up in the tropical rainforests of Cape York and have this weird but amazing habit of drumming on trees with sticks. It’s like they’re the rock stars of the bird world.
Read more about Palm Cockatoos here: The Majestic Goliath: Palm Cockatoos Revealed
Cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus)
Last but definitely not least, the Cockatiel. These little guys have been given their own subfamily in the cockatoo world, and they’re just adorable. With their yellow faces, bright orange cheeks, and sweet nature, they’re hard not to love. They’re also the whistling champs of the bird world and can be very vocal learning many words, phrases and sounds. They’re often kept as pets and breed easily in captivity, though they’re just as charming out in the wild.
Have you fallen in love with Australian cockatoos?
From the loud and lively Sulphur-crested Cockatoo to the quiet elegance of the Glossy Black Cockatoo, Aussie cockatoos are as diverse as they are fascinating. These birds aren’t just pretty faces—they play a vital role in the environment, helping to spread seeds and keep ecosystems healthy. They’re also a reminder of how wild and wonderful nature can be. So next time you hear a squawk, take a moment to appreciate these feathered friends—they’re worth it and we know you’ll fall in love with them.
Want to read more Aussie blog posts?
What are Wombats? Explore Their Wild and Wacky World.