The Bare-eyed Cockatoo also known as the Little Corella which is a charming and charismatic parrot species native to Australia. With its distinctive white plumage, delicate peachy-pink crest, and striking blue eye-ring, this avian beauty captures the hearts of bird enthusiasts worldwide. Beyond its captivating appearance, the Bare-eyed Cockatoo possesses a playful and intelligent nature, making it a delightful companion for those willing to provide the attention and care it deserves.
In this introductory exploration, we delve into the fascinating world of the Bare-eyed Cockatoo, uncovering its unique characteristics, habitat, behavior, and the joys of sharing your life with one of these enchanting creatures.
Origin and History of Bare-Eyed Cockatoo
The bare-eyed cockatoo is a cool bird from northern Australia. This bird was discovered by a scientist named John Gould in 1843. These birds have bare patches of blue-gray skin around their eyes and pinkish-white feathers. They like hanging out in small groups and are pretty noisy. While they are not in danger of disappearing, they face problems like losing their homes to people cutting down trees and being captured for the pet trade. Some folks like having them as pets because they’re fun and look neat, but it’s important to take good care of them.
Scientific Classification of Bare-Eyed Cockatoo
The scientific classification of the Bare-eyed Cockatoo also known as Little Corella, is as follows.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Class | Aves (Birds) |
| Family | Cacatuidae |
| Scientific Name | Cacatua sanguinea |
| Common Name | Bare-eyed Cockatoo or Little Corella |
| Bird Size | The Bare-eyed Cockatoo is a medium-sized cockatoo, typically measuring around 35 to 40 centimeters (14 to 16 inches) in length. |
| Feather Color | The plumage of the Bare-eyed Cockatoo is mostly white with pinkish patches on the face, throat, and belly. They have blue skin around the eyes, giving them their distinctive “bare-eyed” appearance. |
| Crest Color | The crest of the Bare-eyed Cockatoo is usually yellowish-white. |
| Lifespan | Bare-eyed Cockatoos have a relatively long lifespan, often living between 40 to 60 years in captivity with proper care. |
| Price Range | Prices for Bare-eyed Cockatoos can vary depending on factors such as age, temperament, and whether they are hand-reared or parent-raised. Typically, prices range from a few hundred dollars to around $2000. |
The Bare-eyed Cockatoo, scientifically known as Cacatua sanguinea, is a medium-sized bird with predominantly white plumage and distinctive pinkish patches on its face and belly.
Bare-Eyed (Little Corella) Cockatoo Colors and Marking
The bare-eyed cockatoo, also known as the little corella, is a striking bird with unique colors and markings. Here’s a description of their appearance.
- Coloration: Bare-eyed cockatoos have predominantly white plumage covering their bodies. However, they often have a soft, peachy-pink blush on their chest and face, particularly around the eyes. This subtle coloration gives them a gentle, endearing appearance.
- Bare Skin: One of the most distinctive features of the bare-eyed cockatoo is its namesake bare patch of skin around its eyes. This area is typically a light blue-gray color, which contrasts beautifully with the bird’s white feathers.
- Beak and Feet: Their beak is a pale horn color, sometimes with darker shades at the tip. Their feet are also grayish in color.
- Size and Shape: Bare-eyed cockatoos are medium-sized birds, reaching lengths of around 14 to 16 inches (35 to 40 centimeters). They have a relatively slender build compared to some other cockatoo species.
- Crest: While not as pronounced as in other cockatoo species, such as the sulphur-crested cockatoo, bare-eyed cockatoos do have a small, erectile crest on the top of their heads. When they are excited or alarmed, they may raise this crest slightly.
- Markings: These cockatoos don’t have elaborate patterns or markings on their plumage, but they may have some subtle variations in coloration, particularly on their wings and tail feathers.
Overall, the combination of white feathers, peachy-pink blush, blue-gray bare skin around the eyes, and pale beak makes the bare-eyed cockatoo a visually striking and charming bird.
Care Tips for Bare-Eyed Cockatoo
Caring for a bare-eyed cockatoo involves providing a nurturing environment that meets both their physical and emotional needs. Here are some key aspects of their care:
- Proper Housing: Bare-eyed cockatoos are active birds and require a spacious cage or aviary to move around comfortably. The cage should be large enough to allow for stretching, climbing, and wing-flapping. It’s also essential to provide perches of varying sizes and textures to promote foot health.
- Nutritious Diet: A well-balanced diet is crucial for the health and well-being of bare-eyed cockatoos. Their diet should consist of high-quality commercial cockatoo pellets supplemented with fresh fruits, vegetables, and occasional treats like nuts and seeds. It’s essential to avoid feeding them foods that are toxic to birds, such as avocado, chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol.
- Hydration: Fresh water should be available at all times for drinking and bathing. Cockatoos enjoy bathing, so providing a shallow dish of water for them to splash around in can be beneficial for their hygiene and mental stimulation.
- Socialization and Interaction: Bare-eyed cockatoos are highly social birds that thrive on interaction with their human caregivers. They require daily socialization, mental stimulation, and out-of-cage time to prevent boredom and develop a strong bond with their owners. Engage them in activities like training, toys, and supervised playtime outside the cage.
- Enrichment: Providing enrichment activities is essential to keep bare-eyed cockatoos mentally stimulated and prevent behavioral problems. Offer a variety of toys, including chew toys, puzzle toys, and foraging toys, to keep them entertained and engaged. Rotating toys regularly can help prevent boredom.
- Regular Veterinary Care: Routine check-ups with an avian veterinarian are essential to monitor the health of your bare-eyed cockatoo and detect any potential health issues early. In addition to regular examinations, make sure to schedule annual vaccinations and necessary tests.
- Environmental Considerations: Cockatoos are sensitive to environmental changes, including temperature fluctuations and drafts. Keep their living environment at a comfortable temperature range (around 70-80°F or 21-27°C) and away from drafts, direct sunlight, and household pollutants.
- Training and Behavioral Guidance: Positive reinforcement training methods can be used to teach your bare-eyed cockatoo basic commands, such as stepping up onto your hand or performing tricks. Additionally, provide consistent guidance and redirection to discourage undesirable behaviors like excessive screaming or feather plucking.
By addressing these aspects of care, you can help ensure that your bare-eyed cockatoo lives a healthy, happy, and fulfilling life as part of your family.
Common Health Problems of Bare-Eyed Cockatoo
Bare-eyed cockatoos, also known as little corellas, can experience a variety of health issues, some of which are common among cockatoos in general. Here are a few health problems to be aware of.
- Feather Plucking: Cockatoos, including bare-eyed cockatoos, are prone to feather plucking, which can be caused by stress, boredom, or underlying health issues. It’s essential to address the root cause and provide enrichment to prevent this behavior.
- Respiratory Issues: Like many birds, bare-eyed cockatoos can develop respiratory problems, such as respiratory infections or pneumonia. These issues can be caused by exposure to drafts, poor ventilation, or contact with sick birds.
- Psittacosis (Parrot Fever): Psittacosis is a bacterial infection caused by Chlamydia psittaci, which can affect bare-eyed cockatoos. Symptoms include respiratory problems, diarrhea, lethargy, and eye infections. It can also be transmitted to humans, so it’s crucial to seek veterinary care if you suspect your bird may have psittacosis.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Improper diet can lead to various health issues in bare-eyed cockatoos, including vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Ensure your bird’s diet is well-balanced and includes a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and high-quality pellets.
- Beak and Nail Overgrowth: Cockatoos need regular beak and nail maintenance to prevent overgrowth, which can lead to discomfort and difficulty eating or perching. Providing appropriate perches and toys for chewing can help manage this issue.
- Obesity: Overfeeding and lack of exercise can lead to obesity in cockatoos, which can predispose them to various health problems, including heart disease and arthritis. Monitor your bird’s weight and provide opportunities for exercise and mental stimulation.
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Bare-eyed cockatoos are susceptible to gastrointestinal problems like cloacal prolapse, which can occur due to straining during defecation or underlying health issues. A proper diet, good hygiene, and regular veterinary check-ups can help prevent and manage gastrointestinal issues.
Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, proper hygiene, and providing a stimulating environment are essential for maintaining the health and well-being of bare-eyed cockatoos. If you notice any signs of illness or unusual behavior in your bird, consult with a qualified avian veterinarian promptly.
Best Diet for a Bare-Eyed Cockatoo
Caring for a bare-eyed cockatoo involves not just attention to their social and emotional needs but also to their dietary requirements. A balanced diet is crucial for their overall health and well-being. Here are some dietary options for a bare-eyed cockatoo.
- Pellets: High-quality pellets designed specifically for cockatoos can form the foundation of their diet. These pellets are formulated to provide essential nutrients and vitamins.
- Fresh Fruits: Offer a variety of fresh fruits such as apples, oranges, berries, kiwi, and mango. These provide essential vitamins and minerals while also adding variety to their diet.
- Fresh Vegetables: Include a range of vegetables like carrots, broccoli, leafy greens, bell peppers, and peas. These provide important nutrients, fiber, and help in maintaining their overall health.
- Nuts and Seeds: Limited amounts of nuts and seeds can be provided as treats. These should be unsalted and offered in moderation due to their high fat content.
- Cooked Grains: Cooked grains like brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat pasta can be offered occasionally to provide additional variety and carbohydrates.
- Protein: Offer sources of lean protein such as cooked chicken or turkey, hard-boiled eggs, and legumes like beans and lentils. These can be given in small amounts to supplement their diet.
- Calcium Supplements: Providing calcium supplements or cuttlebones can help ensure they receive enough calcium, which is crucial for their bone health.
- Limit Junk Food: Avoid feeding them sugary, salty, or fatty foods as they can lead to health problems like obesity and nutritional deficiencies.
Remember to provide fresh water daily, and monitor their diet to ensure they are receiving a balanced intake of nutrients. Additionally, consulting with an avian veterinarian can provide personalized dietary recommendations based on your cockatoo’s specific needs.
Top 10 Interesting Facts About Bare-Eyed Cockatoo
The bare-eyed cockatoo, also known as the little corella, is a fascinating bird native to Australia. Here are some interesting facts about them.
- Name Origins: The name “bare-eyed” comes from the distinctive appearance of their eye region, where they lack feathers or have only sparse ones, making their eyes stand out prominently.
- Social Creatures: Little corellas are highly social birds and often form large flocks, sometimes numbering in the hundreds or even thousands. These flocks are known for their noisy chatter and playful behavior.
- Diet: Their diet primarily consists of seeds, nuts, fruits, and roots. They are known to forage in agricultural areas, sometimes causing damage to crops, which can lead to conflict with farmers.
- Breeding Behavior: During the breeding season, little corellas form monogamous pairs. They nest in tree hollows, often competing with other bird species for suitable nesting sites.
- Life Span: In the wild, little corellas can live for around 20 years, while in captivity, they can live even longer, sometimes reaching up to 40 years.
- Plumage: Despite being mostly white, little corellas have colorful features. Their pinkish bills and the distinctive blue patch on their cheeks add a vibrant touch to their appearance.
- Vocalizations: These cockatoos are known for their loud and raucous calls, which they use for communication within their flocks. They can be quite vocal at dawn and dusk, as well as during social interactions.
- Intelligence: Like other members of the cockatoo family, little corellas are highly intelligent birds. They are capable of problem-solving and learning tasks, which makes them popular pets among bird enthusiasts.
- Conservation Status: While little corellas are not considered globally threatened, their populations in some areas have faced declines due to habitat loss, hunting, and competition with introduced species. They are listed as a species of least concern by the IUCN.
- Cultural Significance: In Australian Aboriginal culture, the little corella holds symbolic significance in various Dreamtime stories and art forms, representing elements of nature and spirituality.
Where to Buy a Cockatoo
Here are two methods for purchasing a bare-eyed cockatoo, one online and one through a physical shop.
Online Method
To buy a bare-eyed cockatoo online, start by checking reputable exotic bird websites known for ethical breeding. Look at the listings for bare-eyed cockatoos, paying attention to details like age, sex, temperament, and care needs. Review photos or videos carefully to assess health and behavior. If you find a bird you like, ask the seller about its history, health guarantees, shipping, and costs. Once you’re happy with the answers and trust the seller, follow their instructions for buying and prepare a good home for your new bird when it arrives.
Physical Shop Method
Start by looking up reputable pet stores or aviaries in your area known for good care practices. Visit these places in person to see their birds up close. Spend some time observing and interacting with the birds to assess their health and behavior. If you find a bare-eyed cockatoo you like, ask the staff about its age, sex, temperament, and care needs. If you’re satisfied and trust the store, you can proceed with the purchase. Don’t forget to arrange transportation if needed.
mber to always prioritize the well-being of the bird and ensure that you’re purchasing from a reputable source with a commitment to ethical breeding and animal welfare.
Some Pros and Cons to Raise a Bare-Eyed Cockatoo as a Pet
Raising a bare-eyed cockatoo as a pet can be a rewarding experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. Here are some pros and cons.
| Pros | Cons |
| Affectionate Nature: Bare-eyed cockatoos are known for their affectionate and social personalities. They often form strong bonds with their human caregivers and enjoy spending time interacting with them. | Loud Vocalizations: Cockatoos are known for their loud calls and vocalizations, which can be disruptive in a household, especially in apartments or close living quarters. |
| Intelligence: Cockatoos are highly intelligent birds and can learn tricks, mimic sounds, and even develop a limited vocabulary with proper training and enrichment. | Destructive Behavior: Cockatoos have powerful beaks and a natural inclination to chew. Without appropriate outlets for their energy and instinctual behaviors, they may engage in destructive behaviors, such as chewing furniture or belongings. |
| Long Lifespan: With proper care, bare-eyed cockatoos can live for several decades, providing companionship for many years. | Time and Attention Demands: Cockatoos require significant time and attention from their caregivers to thrive. They are social creatures that can become stressed or develop behavioral issues if left alone for long periods. |
| Beautiful Appearance: Their striking appearance, with a bare patch of skin around their eyes and vibrant plumage, makes them visually appealing pets. | Messiness: Cockatoos can be messy pets, scattering food, feathers, and debris around their living area. Regular cleaning and maintenance are necessary to keep their environment clean and hygienic. |
| Playful Nature: Cockatoos are playful birds and enjoy toys, puzzles, and activities that stimulate their minds and keep them entertained. | Potential Health Issues: Like all pets, cockatoos are susceptible to various health problems, including nutritional deficiencies, respiratory issues, and behavioral disorders. Regular veterinary check-ups and a proper diet are essential for their well-being. |
Before deciding to bring a bare-eyed cockatoo into your home, it’s crucial to thoroughly research their care requirements and consider whether you have the time, resources, and commitment to meet their needs throughout their long lifespan.