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Sulphur-crested Cockatoo (also known as Greater Sulphur-crested Cockatoo)
Semiplume / Crest Feather

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.
Learn more about Sulphur-crested Cockatoo (also known as Greater Sulphur-crested Cockatoo) in the encyclopedia →

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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.