Cockatoos
Scientific Name: Cacatua galerita
Aboriginal Name: Kirrawee, Garraway – Dharug Language – Sydney NSW Area
Cockatoos are a very popular choice as companions for many new bird lovers. Here are some fun facts about them:
- Some Aboriginal stories tell of cockatoos being rainmakers. Their loud calls are believed to summon rain, especially in times of drought.
- In Aboriginal culture, especially among the people in the Sydney NSW area, the white cockatoo is sometimes seen as a spirit bird, representing peace and protection. They believe seeing a cockatoo means that a good spirit is watching over you.
- Cockatoos have a yellow feathered crest on their heads that they can raise and lower when they are excited, surprised, or just showing off. The crest pops up like a feathered mohawk.
- These birds are very social and live in large flocks. They love spending time with their friends and can become lonely without company.
- There are 21 different species of cockatoos, and they come in a variety of colors, including white, black, pink, and gray. Each species has its own unique look and personality.
- Cockatoos use their super loud voices to communicate with their flock and warn each other of any danger.
- Cockatoos love to dance. When they hear music they might bob their heads, sway side to side, or flap their wings to the beat.
- Cockatoos have strong, curved beaks that they use like a tool to crack open nuts, peel bark off trees, and even break into things they shouldn’t be.
- Some cockatoo species can live up to 60 years or more in the wild, and even longer in captivity.
- Cockatoos have been around for a very long time. Fossil evidence suggests that their ancestors lived on Earth millions of years ago.