Origin and HistoryThe galah is native to Australia, where it can be found in open grasslands and over much of the country. It has self-established in Tasmania. Galah cockatoos travel in large flocks, often in groups that also include sulfur-crested cockatoos. They will mate with other species of cockatoos. The name “galah” means “fool” or “clown” in the native Australian language Yuwaalaraay. This highly intelligent bird got the name for being a loud nuisance.

TemperamentAffectionate and friendly, the galah cockatoo has a reputation for being a loving pet. Unlike umbrella cockatoos, these birds are not big on cuddling. But, they are accustomed to handling.

Speech and VocalisationsWild galahs emit loud, high-pitched sounds while flying in flocks. They can make a resonating screech when frightened, excited, or calling out for attention. This clever bird can imitate people’s voices and repetitive sounds like train whistles, car horns, or telephone ringtones. Some say males are more prolific talkers than females. Comparatively, the galah cockatoo is not particularly loud for a cockatoo, which is among the loudest of parrots.

Colors and MarkingsTheir bold colors and friendly personalities have made galah cockatoos increasingly popular as pets. As its descriptive name suggests, rose-breasted cockatoos have bright pink feathers on their chests, bellies, and the lower half of their faces. They have pinkish-white crests and gray backs, wings, and tail feathers, gray feet, and horn-colored beaks. As is true of all cockatoos, the galah has a head crest that fans out when the bird is frightened or excited.

CareYour bird will want to spend a considerable amount of time with you and will be a reasonably high-maintenance pet. If you are short on time for interaction, this bird might be happier housed with another galah. These parrots need sound sleep in a dark, quiet place that mimics the safety of the roosting areas that they prefer when living in the wild. Covering the bird’s cage at night usually reassures them.

Diet and NutritionIn the wild, galahs eat grasses, leaf buds, flowers, seeds, and on occasion, insects for extra protein. When kept as pets, feed galahs a balanced diet. High-quality formulated pellets have been developed to meet all your bird’s nutritional needs. At least 50 percent of your bird’s diet should be in pellet form. The other half of their diet should be fruits and vegetables. Start by feeding 1/4 cup of pellets and 1/4 cup of fresh salad daily. Incrementally increase as needed.

Great choices for fresh vegetables include leafy greens such as Swiss chard, kale, Chinese cabbage, and romaine; root vegetables; peppers; zucchini; green beans; and sprouts. They love most fruits and berries. Give walnuts, almonds, and pecans sparingly as training treats. Fresh water should be available at all times.

 

ExerciseGalah cockatoos are active birds, and they need plenty of exercise to maintain their physical health. Pan on giving this bird at least three to four hours of active time outside of the cage each day.

Cockatoos have strong beaks and jaws, so it’s essential to provide plenty of safe toys made of wood or leather that allows them to exercise their jaw muscles and satisfy the natural chewing instinct.

ADULT SIZE:    12 to 15 inches in length, weighing 10 to 14 ounces

LIFE EXPECTANCY:  Can live to 70 years in captivity; most commonly will live 40 or so years