A cockatoo is a bird that can not only mimic human speech but also dance to music with remarkable enthusiasm. These intelligent and affectionate birds have captivated the hearts of bird enthusiasts worldwide. If you want to buy a cockatoo, there are many factors to consider the cockatoo price.
There are many factors to consider when you are buying a cockatoo, health, species, and personality of a specific bird. After checking these factors you can buy a cockatoo at your best price. This article will explore the various factors influencing the cockatoo price including species, age, health, breeder reputation, and market demand.
21 Cockatoos Species and its Prices
There are 21 recognized species of cockatoos and each species has different characteristics and varying price ranges influenced by their rarity and demand. Usually the larger species of cockatoos are more expensive than the smaller ones. Mostly Australian species are a bit cheaper than the island species because they are not rare. Here we will discuss the prices of 21 cockatoos species.
Black Palm Cockatoo price
The price of a Black Palm Cockatoo generally ranges from $15,000 to $23,000. Black palm cockatoos are very expensive due to their rarity, hard-to-breed, and higher demand. These birds have a long lifespan of up to 60 years. These birds also require significant care, including a large enclosure and a specialized diet of fruits, nuts, and high-quality pellets. Black Palm Cockatoo is endangered species.
Umbrella Cockatoo Price
The price of an Umbrella Cockatoo typically ranges from $1,000 to $3,500 depending on factors such as age and health. The breeding of this species is a bit easier and more successful which makes it common and cheaper. In addition to the purchase price, potential owners should consider the cost of a suitable cage which can range from $400 to $1,000. These birds also require a nutritious diet, regular veterinary care, and extensive social interaction and mental stimulation. Purchasing from reputable breeders or adopting from rescue organizations ensures a healthy and well-cared-for pet.
Moluccan Cockatoo Price
Moluccan cockatoo is a rare but it common and popular species in the United States. A Moluccan cockatoo’s price varies but it commonly starts from $2000 to $4000. This price is a bit higher than umbrella cockatoo. But it is cheaper than other many species because of its easy and successful breeding. This price is also depend on many factors like age, health, and behavior.
Goffins Cockatoo Price
Goffin’s cockatoo is a small species of cockatoos and its breeding is easy and cheap in price. The Goffin’s cockatoo price is around $1200 to $2000 and it also depends on many factors like age, health, and behavior. Goffin’s cockatoo is a suitable pet due to its small size and easy breeding. it has also a social and friendly nature.
Galah Cockatoo Price
The Galah cockatoo is an Australian species that is small in size and pink in color. Due to its small size, it is easy to breed. Due to its easy breeding, the Galah cockatoo is not more expensive. You can buy a galah cockatoo for $1200 to $2500. Galah cockatoo price depend on many factors like health, age, and appearance. Galah cockatoo is famous worldwide for its charming antics and ability to form deep bonds with humans.
Bare-eyed Cockatoo Price
The bare-eyed cockatoo is a smaller cockatoo species that is easier to keep as a pet. The price The price of a Bare-eyed cockatoo generally ranges from $12,00 to $25,00. This bird looks slightly sleepy due to its blue ring around their eyes. This bird is active, social, and has a strong interaction with its owner.
Citron-crested Cockatoo Price
The citron-crested cockatoo is a medium-sized bird that has an orange crest and light orange spots on the ear. The citron-crested cockatoo ranges from $2000 to $3500. Both males and females are similar in appearance with gray beaks and yellow feathers under wings. Its personality makes it popular and and best choice for bird lovers.
Sulphur-Crested Cockatoo Price
The price of a Sulphur-Crested Cockatoo can vary significantly depending on factors such as age, health, and breeder reputation. Typically, these birds range in price from $1,500 to $4,000. Young, hand-fed babies tend to be at the lower end of the spectrum, around $1,000 to $2,000, while adult birds and those with extensive training and better health records can cost between $2,000 and $4,000.
In addition to the initial purchase cost, prospective owners should be prepared for additional expenses. A spacious and secure cage, high-quality food, toys, enrichment items, and regular veterinary care can significantly add to the overall cost of ownership. It’s also advisable to consider pet insurance to help cover any unexpected health issues.
Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo Price
The price of a Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo typically ranges from $7,500 to $15,000. These birds are relatively rare and their high cost reflects their scarcity and the challenges involved in breeding and keeping them in captivity.
Before purchasing one, it’s important to consider their care requirements. Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoos are large birds that need ample space to thrive, ideally in a large aviary. They are known to be noisy, which can make them unsuitable for apartment living.
Yellow-crested Cockatoo Price
The price of a Yellow-crested Cockatoo also known as the Lesser Sulphur-crested Cockatoo, typically ranges from $3,000 to $4,000. However, there are instances where these birds are sold at discounted prices. For example, The Animal Store lists them on sale for around $5,999. This species is known for its intelligence and affectionate nature, making it a desirable pet for many bird enthusiasts. The price can vary based on factors such as the bird’s age, training, and breeder reputation.
Western Corella Cockatoo Price
The Western Corella cockatoo, also known as the Western Long-billed Corella (Cacatua pastinator), is a relatively rare species in captivity, with a lifespan that can exceed 50 years. Due to their rarity and specific habitat needs, prices for Western Corellas can vary significantly based on availability, the breeder, and the bird’s age and health.
As of 2024, prices for Western Corella cockatoos typically range from approximately $2,000 to $4,000. This range can fluctuate based on the bird’s lineage, tameness, and whether it is a hand-raised pet or a wild-caught individual (although wild capture is generally restricted and ethically discouraged).
Red-Tailed Black Cockatoo Price
The price of a Red-Tailed Black Cockatoo varies significantly based on factors like age, availability, and the breeder. Generally, these birds are among the most expensive cockatoos due to their rarity and conservation status. Here are some current price ranges:
General Range: Red-Tailed Black Cockatoos can cost between $15,000 and $40,000.
These prices reflect the bird’s endangered status, long lifespan (up to 100 years), and the high cost of care and breeding.
Top 5 Factors that Affect the Price of Cockatoos
Cockatoos also known for their vibrant plumage and lively personalities and have become a popular choice among bird enthusiasts. However, the price of these captivating parrots can vary significantly influenced by a range of factors.Understanding these determinants is crucial for potential owners and breeders alike.From species rarity to age and health, each aspect plays a pivotal role in shaping the market value of these charming avian companions.
Species Variability
One of the primary factors influencing the price of cockatoos is species variability. Cockatoos encompass a wide range of species and each species with distinct characteristics, rarity, and appeal. For instance, species such as the Black Palm Cockatoo or the Major Mitchell’s Cockatoo are particularly rare and sought after commanding higher prices due to their unique appearance and limited availability.
Conversely, more common species like the Umbrella Cockatoo tend to be more affordable. The desirability of specific traits such as coloration, size, and behavior, further contributes to the variability in pricing, as certain species may possess attributes that are highly prized among avian enthusiasts. Understanding the nuances of each species can provide valuable insight into the cost differences within the cockatoo market.
Age and Life Stage
Age and life stage significantly impact the price of cockatoos with younger birds generally being more expensive than older ones. Baby cockatoos, or chicks, are often in higher demand because they are easier to train and bond with their owners, making them more desirable to potential buyers. As a result, breeders and pet stores typically charge a premium for these young birds.
On the other hand, mature or older cockatoos, while sometimes more affordable, may have established habits and behaviors that can be challenging to change which can make them less attractive to some buyers. Additionally, older cockatoos may require more specialized care due to age-related health issues, further influencing their market value. Understanding the implications of age and life stage helps buyers make informed decisions about the right time to invest in a cockatoo.
Health and Veterinary Care
The health and veterinary care of a cockatoo are crucial factors affecting its price. Birds that are healthy, fully vaccinated, and have a clean bill of health from a reputable avian veterinarian command higher prices. Potential owners are often willing to pay a premium for cockatoos that have been well-cared for, as this reduces the risk of future medical issues and associated costs.
Conversely, birds with health problems, either chronic or acute, are generally less expensive due to the potential for ongoing veterinary care and the added responsibility of managing their health conditions. A comprehensive health check and a history of regular veterinary visits can significantly boost a cockatoo’s market value.
Breeder Reputation
The reputation of the breeder is another pivotal factor influencing the price of cockatoos. Breeders with a solid reputation for producing healthy and well-socialized birds often charge more for their cockatoos. These breeders are known for adhering to high standards of care, including proper nutrition, regular health check-ups, and providing a stimulating environment for the birds.
Potential buyers are often willing to pay extra for the assurance that comes with purchasing from a reputable breeder, knowing that the bird has been raised with attention to its physical and emotional well-being. Conversely, birds from less reputable sources or backyard breeders might be priced lower but come with greater risks regarding health and temperament.
Market Demand
Market demand plays a significant role in determining the price of cockatoos. When the demand for cockatoos is high, prices tend to increase, particularly for those species that are more sought after. Factors such as trends in pet ownership, the popularity of certain species, and the overall economic climate can influence market demand.
For instance, if a particular species of cockatoo gains popularity due to media exposure or endorsements by well-known avian enthusiasts, the demand and consequently the price for that species may rise. Conversely, during times of low demand, prices might decrease as sellers compete to attract buyers. Understanding market trends and timing the purchase accordingly can have a significant impact on the cost of acquiring a cockatoo.
Buying vs. Adopting a Cockatoo
Deciding whether to buy or adopt a cockatoo involves various considerations, including ethical, financial, and practical factors. Here are some key points to consider.
Buying a Cockatoo
Buying a cockatoo is a big decision that needs careful thought. These beautiful and smart birds can be great pets, but they need a lot of time, attention, and care. It’s important to choose a good breeder and learn how to properly take care of your new bird to make sure it stays healthy and happy. Here are some pros and cons of buying of a cockatoo.
| Pros | Cons |
| Choice of Age: You can often buy a young bird or even a baby, allowing you to train and bond with it from a young age. | Higher Cost: Buying a cockatoo, especially from a reputable breeder, can be significantly more expensive than adopting. |
| Known History: Birds from reputable breeders come with known histories and often comprehensive health records. | Ethical Concerns: Buying from breeders can perpetuate the cycle of breeding and selling, which has ethical implications, especially if the breeder is not reputable. |
| Customization: You can choose specific traits, such as coloration and species, that might be more difficult to find in rescue birds. | No Guarantees: Even with a known history, there’s no guarantee that the bird will not develop health or behavioral issues. |
Adopting a Cockatoo
Adopting a cockatoo can be a wonderful experience, giving a bird in need a loving home. This process involves finding the right bird for your home and being ready for the special care a previously owned cockatoo might need. By adopting, you give a bird a second chance and gain a delightful and loving companion. Here are some pros and cons of adopting of a ckckatoo.
| Pros | Cons |
| Ethical Choice: Adopting a cockatoo from a rescue organization or shelter often helps a bird in need, giving it a second chance at a loving home. | Unknown History: Adopted cockatoos may have unknown or traumatic pasts, which can affect their behavior and health. |
| Health and Behavior Information: Rescued birds typically undergo health checks and behavioral assessments, so you have a better understanding of their condition. | Age: Many birds in shelters are older, so if you prefer a young bird, it might be harder to find. |
| Lower Cost: Adoption fees are generally lower than purchase prices from breeders or pet stores. | Behavioral Challenges: Some rescued cockatoos may have behavioral issues that require patience and experience to manage. |
Choosing to adopt or buy a cockatoo is a personal decision that should be made carefully and considering the welfare of the bird and your ability to provide a suitable home.
Where to Buy or Adopt a Cockatoo
Adopting or buying a cockatoo requires careful consideration to ensure you are getting your bird from a responsible and ethical source. Here are some options.
Avian Rescue Organizations
Avian rescue organizations are dedicated to rehabilitating and rehoming birds, including cockatoos, that have been surrendered, neglected, or abandoned. These rescues provide essential care and socialization to the birds and offer prospective adopters the opportunity to give these birds a second chance at a loving home.
Notable rescues such as Birds of Paradise Sanctuary & Rescue in Florida, Mickaboo Companion Bird Rescue in California, and Phoenix Landing Foundation on the East Coast are great places to start if you are considering adopting a cockatoo. They often have strict adoption processes to ensure the birds are placed in suitable and knowledgeable homes.
Local Bird Shops
Local bird shops especially those specializing in exotic birds can be excellent places to find cockatoos. These shops typically have knowledgeable staff who can provide valuable information about cockatoo care, diet, and behavior.
Stores like Parrot Stars in Illinois and Birds by Joe in New Jersey are known for their wide selection of birds and commitment to bird welfare. When purchasing from a local bird shop, it’s important to observe the conditions of the store and ensure that the birds appear healthy and well-cared for.
Online Bird Selling Websites
Online bird selling websites offer a convenient way to find cockatoos from various breeders and sellers. Websites like BirdBreeders.com connect potential buyers with certified breeders who adhere to ethical breeding practices.
While buying online, it is crucial to conduct thorough research on the seller, ask for health certificates, and, if possible, visit the breeder in person or ask for a virtual tour to verify the living conditions of the birds. Reputable online platforms also provide detailed listings and reviews to help ensure that you are dealing with trustworthy breeders.