One of Australia’s best-known birds, Cockatoo has a worldwide reputation as a good-natured pet. However, this constrasts with her wary nature in the wild. To avoid being caught, Cockatoo has developed an early warning system. As the main flock feeds, Sentinel Cockatoo perches in the trees to warn the others of danger, with a loud screech.
Living in large flocks, Cockatoo gathers with other Cockatoos to roost in one of Her favorite sites along the river. When foraging for food during the day, her flock splits into smaller groups to obtain more food. When Cockatoo flies with her flock, They converse by screeching back and forth.
Only during breeding season does Cockatoo seek solitude. During courtship, She and Her Partner preen each other’s feathers. Then, She sits on her nest waiting for her eggs to hatch. Later, Cockatoo will rejoin her flock.
How to live in a large group is what Cockatoo teaches. While roosting together, She protects her family and friends, and They protect Her. She enjoys her friends' company as They do Hers.
Cockatoo’s Teaching Includes:
“Cockatoo reflects his self-esteem by primping and preening his feathers while wooing his mate and lovingly expressing 'I am here'. 'I am worthy, I am good'. His friendliness is seen by the willingness he shows to mix with others, being seen to even feed others during courtship. Cockatoo is sometimes seen alone but mostly he spends time in company of others.” Copyright: “Wisdom of Australian Animals”, Ann Williams-Fitzgerald.
“Sulpher-Crested Cockatoo Dreaming offers a chance to regain control of your life.” Copyright: “Animal Messengers”, Scott Alexander King.
Purchase books on the care of Cockatoos from Amazon.com
Conservation Note: Cockatoo is protected in Australia.
Cockatoo Photo copyrighted by Andreas Ryf, Visipix.com
Va. Carper
March 5, 2008