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 Cockatoo FAQ.

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kaeladedah
Hyacinth Macaw
kaeladedah


Join date : 2011-05-18
Age : 35
Location : North Carolina, USA
My Birds : Cheney Bird, Green Cheek Conure
Pigpen, Lutino Budgie
Nava, Lutino Lovebird
Oliver, Indian Ring Neck
Posts : 1449

Cockatoo FAQ. Empty
PostSubject: Cockatoo FAQ.   Cockatoo FAQ. EmptyThu May 19, 2011 5:07 pm

Cockatoos are beautiful, majestic birds. They can be extremely large, as the Moluccan Cockatoo is, or extremely small, as the Cockatiel is. But everyone can agree these birds can make wonderful pets.

Cockatiels are small birds, about ten inches long. They come in a variety of colors and mutations, from normal grey to whiteface to lutino. These birds are often considered beginner birds because of their even temperment and ease of handling and care.

The larger Cockatoos, such as the Umbrella, Galah, Moluccan, Goffin's, etc. can make wonderful pets in very experienced hands. These birds are absolutely not beginner birds. Because so many people are entranced by their beauty, people buy them and then realize they've gotten in too far. These lovely birds then end up with behavioral problems, in rescues, or dead because their owner didn't know what they were getting in to.

Cockatoos are incredibly social birds, often living in large flocks. Thus, they are used to a lot of interaction and require that from their human flocks. It's natural for them to seek companionship, and they are some of the most affectionate species of birds.

Many Cockatoos are deemed to be "velcro birds" because these birds are so affectionate. These birds usually bond heavily to one person and consider that person a mate for life. This is why they're often to loving to their human companion.

Bored and neglected Cockatoos are unhappy Cockatoos which then can develop behavioral problems. They often become stressed and ill, will pluck their feathers, mutlilate themselves, and begin screaming for attention.

Anyone who is committed to owning one of these birds as a pet must be committed to their care and well being. These birds often live well past their 60s, so it is a lifelong committment.

Their cages should be placed in a well traveled area so that they feel part of the family and do not become bored. When passing the cage, it's suggested that the owner stop and talk to the bird. Toys should always be readily available in abundance, and these birds should be let out of their cages to play often.

Like a child, a Cockatoo can be very demanding. You should not spoil your bird with hours of attention when you first get him because this will be expected. Your bird will not understand why you stopped paying attention to him and will feel neglected.

Cockatoos are incredibly dusty, so they are not an appropriate pet for someone with allergies or asthma. Air filters are recommended to minimize dust, but it will never eliminate it completely.

Cockatoos are not recommended as apartment pets.. unless your neighbors are all deaf. They have a loud call and scream daily. Screaming at morning light and dusk are normal and should be expected.

Cages should be large enough for the bird to stretch their wings. Bigger is always better. A cage that is longer than it is tall would be great for a Cockatoo. Cage materials should also be extremely strong as their beaks can cut through metal if they're determined enough. They are also quite skilled escape artists, so securing cage doors is absolutely necessary unless you'd like your house reduced to shredded pieces.

Overall, these birds are incredibly sweet, affectionate creatures that make excellent pets for experienced owners with a lot of time for them. They should never bet pets for a novice or for a person that is only home to sleep.

Pictures of some Cockatoos:

Sulphur-Crested Cockatoo:
Cockatoo FAQ. Sulphur_crested_cockatoo

Galah Cockatoo:
Cockatoo FAQ. Galah

Little Corellas:
Cockatoo FAQ. Little_corellas


Last edited by Margaret on Fri May 20, 2011 2:04 am; edited 1 time in total (Reason for editing : to add pictures)
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