
Sulphur-crested Cockatoo (also known as Greater Sulphur-crested Cockatoo)
Kingdom: Animalia; Phylum: Chordata; Class: Aves; Order: Psittaciformes; Family: Cacatuidae; Genus: Cacatua; Species: galerita
Family: Cacatuidae (Cockatoos)
- Shape
- Broadly rounded at the tip, slightly spatulate, with a highly asymmetrical plume transition at the base.
- Size
- Approximately 3-5 cm in length; narrow width consistent with a decorative or crest feather from a medium-to-large parrot.
- Rarity
- Very Common within its native range; often found in large, noisy flocks.
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Description
A striking feather from a large white parrot known for its expressive yellow crest, dark beak, and incredibly loud, raucous call. The bird is almost entirely white except for the yellow underside of wings and the crest.
Colour & Pattern
Vibrant gradient starting from a pale yellow-white base, transitioning into a bright saturated yellow, and ending in a deep peach or orange-yellow hue near the tip.
Barb Structure
Mixed: Pennaceous and interlocked at the distal (colored) tip; highly plumulaceous and downy at the proximal base near the calamus.
Texture & Surface
Silky and soft. The colored portion has a matte finish typical of psittacine feathers, while the base is extremely fluffy and downy.
Key Features
The specific yellow-to-orange gradient on a semi-structured plume with a heavy downy base is diagnostic for Cacatua crest feathers.
Habitat
Woodlands, rainforests, scrublands, and increasingly common in urban parks and suburban gardens.
Geographic Range
Native to Australia, New Guinea, and through Indonesia; successfully introduced to New Zealand and parts of Southeast Asia.
Ecological Role
Acts as a seed disperser and occasional pest to crops; they help prune trees by nipping off smaller branches and hollow out nesting sites used by other species.
Similar Species
Major Mitchell's Cockatoo (Lophochroa leadbeateri) has brighter red/pink bands; Galah feathers are primarily pink and grey.
Interesting Facts
The Sulphur-crested Cockatoo can live for over 70 years in captivity and is known for its high intelligence and ability to 'dance' to a beat.
Condition Notes
Good condition; the barbs appear intact with little sign of wear (molted naturally), though some minor separation is visible in the downy section.