Origin and History

The Major Mitchell’s cockatoo is native to inland Australia. These birds nest in pairs in woodlands and treeless areas, always near water. They can become nomadic during dry periods. They tend not to nest near other pairs, which means they require a large territory. However, they do often hang around galah cockatoos, another Australian native. The wild population of Major Mitchell’s cockatoos are dwindling due to human development of their native habitat.

Temperament

A high-maintenance species, this bird requires daily socialisation and interaction with its owner to maintain good emotional health. This species has a natural tendency to form a tightly-knit bond for life. As its keeper, you will become its bonded mate. This bird is funny and energetic, as well as cuddly and affectionate.

Major Mitchell’s can be temperamental. This bird is sensitive to the absence of its bonded human. Your bird might even shun you after taking a short vacation. It can take some time to earn back the bird’s trust. Neglected cockatoos may resort to destructive behaviours, such as self-mutilation, chewing on wires, and destroying furniture.

Since they tend to bond with one person, Major Mitchell’s cockatoos can show signs of jealousy when their owners interact with other people. They may try to nip or bite the other people to show their irritation. This is a significant reason why this bird is not a good pet for families with small children.

These birds are brilliant and can be taught tricks like dancing or playing hide and seek. Some learn to speak, or can at least whistle to get their owner’s attention. They can hit some pretty high notes and have a natural alarm call intended to be heard for miles in the wild.

Speech and Vocalisations

In general, cockatoos can be loud and incessant talkers. The Major Mitchell’s species is noticeably quieter and more prone to natural calls. They can be taught to say a few basic words and can mimic whistles or alarms. Their natural calls are not too loud; they make exotic chirps and high pitched alarm calls.

Colors and Markings

The Major Mitchell’s species is the only cockatoo to have a multi-colored crest. When extended, you’ll see bright pink and yellow-orange feathers with white at the tips.

The colourful Major Mitchell’s cockatoo is primarily pinkish-white and very easy to recognise. These flashy birds have broad pink patches around the neck and on the underbelly. They often have bold pink under their white-tipped wings.

Care

In the wild, this cockatoo eats mainly seeds from melons, weeds, and pine trees; cereal grains; and insect larvae.

High-quality pellets, a moderate amount of seed mix, and daily helpings of fresh, thoroughly washed bird-safe fruits and vegetables are the ideal diet for these birds. They tend to enjoy green leafy vegetables like lettuce, spinach, and Swiss chard as well as carrots, celery, corn, green beans, and zucchini. Many also enjoy nuts, including hazelnuts, peanuts, pecans, and walnuts.

Just like its fellow members of the parrot family, Major Mitchell’s cockatoos are active birds that need plenty of exercise to maintain their physical condition. They need a minimum of three to four hours outside of the cage every day to stretch their wings.

Provide your Major Mitchell’s cockatoo with safe chew toys to exercise their beaks. These birds chew wood to make nests in the wild and will display that same behavior in captivity if they get bored or restless.

ADULT SIZE:  13 to 15 inches in length

LIFE EXPECTANCY:   40 to 60 years in the wild; up to 80 years in captivity.