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Galah (Rose-breasted Cockatoo)
Contour feather (body or wing covert)

Galah (Rose-breasted Cockatoo)

Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Psittaciformes, Family: Cacatuidae, Genus: Eolophus, Species: E. roseicapilla

Family: Cacatuidae (Cockatoos)

Shape
Symmetrical vane with a rounded tip, overall oval-elongated outline
Size
Approximately 2 to 3 inches long, consistent with a medium-sized body or covert feather of a cockatoo
Rarity
Very Common
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Description

The Galah is one of Australia's most familiar and charismatic cockatoos, instantly recognizable by its striking pink and grey plumage and expressive crest. Highly social and often seen in large, noisy flocks, these birds are renowned for their acrobatic flight displays and strong lifelong bonds.

Colour & Pattern

Soft pale grey on the outer/dorsal vane and a distinct delicate pink hue on the underside and base, characteristic of the Galah's plumage

Barb Structure

Pennaceous upper portion transitioning into a plumulaceous (fluffy) base, intact barbs with hooklets

Texture & Surface

Smooth and silky texture with a matte finish, soft yet structurally firm across the main vane

Key Features

Distinctive combination of pale silvery-grey upper vane and delicate pink lower vane/base, typical of Australian cockatoo body contour feathers

Habitat

Open country, agricultural lands, grassy woodlands, and arid to semi-arid open habitats across Australia

Geographic Range

Endemic and widespread across mainland Australia, highly adaptable to modified agricultural landscapes

Ecological Role

Acts as an important seed disperser and forager in Australian ecosystems, though large flocks can occasionally be considered agricultural pests

Similar Species

Major Mitchell's Cockatoo or Pink and Grey Cockatoo subspecies, distinguished by deeper salmon-pink shades and brighter crest feather markings

Interesting Facts

Galahs are known to engage in playful behavior, such as sliding down corrugated iron roofs and playing with objects in mid-air. They form lifelong pair bonds and often participate in synchronized aerial acrobatics.

Condition Notes

Good condition, fresh appearance with intact barbs and no visible damage or heavy wear

Galah (Rose-breasted Cockatoo) | Feather Identifier