Origin and HistoryThis species is native to the Moluccas (Maluku Islands) in Indonesia. They live in the lowlands and form large flocks. Farmers sometimes consider them a nuisance. Moluccans separate from the flock when they form a mating pair during the breeding season. They mate for life and can get very depressed after losing a mate.

TemperamentSweet and affectionate are understated descriptions. This cockatoo loves to be loved and wants nothing more than someone (bird or person) to be with at all times. As a pet, the Moluccan tends to turn into a one-person bird. Moluccans are brilliant birds that thrive on challenges. They can learn to dance and do tricks and acts like an entertaining comedian when in a good mood.

 

Speech and VocalizationsMoluccans are not the best talking parrot. They can mimic some sounds, though many owners say that it’s more like yelling than talking.

Colors and MarkingsThis species is easy to recognize by the bright pink feathers that adorn the base of its crest. It’s barely noticeable when the feathers are flat, but when the bird is excited, afraid, or angry, the crest will raise and show off its true beauty. Among the cockatoo species, their crest is one of the fullest, only rivaled by the umbrella cockatoo.

Besides the pop of color on their heads, Moluccan cockatoos are primarily white with salmon-colored feathers on their chests and wings. They have a beautiful pale yellow to peach color underneath their wings. Their beaks and feet are black but often appear gray due to the natural powdery down that the bird sheds.

CareMoluccan cockatoos bond strongly with their owners. Do not get a Moluccan cockatoo unless you can be sure you will be home most of the time with it. If your lifestyle does not allow for this, consider getting two Moluccans. A pair will keep each other entertained. The trade-off is that owning two of these feisty birds is an even more significant commitment than one.

Moluccans will do best in the largest cage possible. If you can make the bird’s home an aviary or a full room, your bird will be happier. The cage should be sturdy and able to withstand the cockatoo’s destructive nature. Address its pent-up energy by providing plenty of toys and activity during its daily, supervised playtime.

Diet and NutritionIn the wild, Moluccans eat seeds, fruits, nuts, and insects. Like all members of the cockatoo family, Moluccans can suffer health problems if they gain too much weight. Since Moluccans are not getting as much exercise as they would if they were in the wild, owners need to ensure these birds get a well-balanced diet and cut back on high-fat foods like seeds.

A formulated pellet diet should make up 75 percent of its food source. The other 25 percent should be bird-safe fruits and vegetables, such as bananas, apples, carrots, and kale. Thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables to protect your bird against pesticides and bacteria.

ExerciseMoluccan cockatoos are an active bird. They need plenty of exercise to maintain their mental and physical well-being. Let your bird play and stretch its muscles. Give it between three and four hours outside the cage daily. It doesn’t have to be in one long stretch.

Designate the bird’s out-of-cage time in a safe, enclosed area where your bird won’t hurt itself or escape from the house. You can also play to its foraging instinct and hide food as a game. The bird will enjoy the challenge.

ADULT SIZE:20 inches

LIFE EXPECTANCY:  Up to 70 years