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Umbrella cockatoo
Umbrella cockatoo
Origin
Indonesia
Size
Large Breed
Ideal Weather
18º-30ºC
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹2,500
Basic Lifestyle
₹3,500
Premium Lifestyle
Top 5 Traits
Friendly
Playful
Intelligent
Social
Affectionate
Quick Information
The Umbrella Cockatoo (Cacatua alba), also known as the White Cockatoo, is a large and charismatic parrot native to the Maluku Islands of Indonesia. This bird is easily recognizable by its striking white plumage and the distinctive, umbrella-like crest it raises when excited or alarmed. Measuring around 46 cm (18 inches) in length, the Umbrella Cockatoo is known for its playful and affectionate nature, making it a popular pet. These birds are highly intelligent and require a great deal of mental stimulation, social interaction, and physical exercise. In the wild, they inhabit tropical rainforests and mangroves, feeding on a varied diet of seeds, nuts, fruits, and insects. In captivity, they need a spacious cage, plenty of toys, and regular socialization to prevent boredom and behavioral issues. Their long lifespan and high maintenance needs make them suitable for dedicated and experienced bird owners.
Characteristics
Affection
Not Friendly
Super Friendly
Vocalization
Silent
Vocal
Intelligence
Low
High
Social Behavior
Prefer Isolation
Very Social
Habitat
Initial Setup Cost
₹ 2,500 - ₹ 3,000
Monthly Expenses
₹ 1,000 - ₹ 1,500
Essential Equipment
Bird Cage
Perches
Food/ water dishes
Toys and Enrichment
Cage Liner Paper
Mineral Block
Cage Cleaning Brush
Compatible mates
Galah Cockatoo.
Sulphur-crested Cockatoo.
Major Mitchell’s Cockatoo.
Citron-crested Cockatoo.
The ideal habitat for an Umbrella Cockatoo includes a spacious and sturdy cage with enough room for the bird to stretch its wings and move around comfortably. The cage should be equipped with multiple perches, food and water dishes, and a variety of toys and enrichment items to keep the bird mentally stimulated. Additionally, a mineral block is essential for beak health. The cage should be placed in a well-lit area with a stable temperature between 18°C and 30°C. Regular cleaning of the cage and changing of the liner paper will help maintain a healthy environment. Due to their social nature, Umbrella Cockatoos should have regular interaction and out-of-cage time to explore and exercise.
Nutrition
Monthly Food Expenses
₹ 1,500 - ₹ 2,000
Ideal weight
500 - 700 grams
Essential Nutrients
Protein
Carbohydrates
Fats
Vitamins
Minerals
List of foods
Seeds
Nuts
Fruits
Vegetables
Leafy Greens
Cooked eggs
Pellets
The diet of an Umbrella Cockatoo should be well-balanced and varied, consisting of high-quality pellets, a mix of seeds and nuts, and a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. Protein sources such as cooked eggs and leafy greens should also be included. Providing a balanced diet that mimics their natural food sources helps maintain their health and vitality. Regularly changing their food and including different types of enrichment items can prevent dietary boredom and ensure they receive all necessary nutrients.
Never feed these foods to Umbrella cockatoo
Avoid anything with these ingredients
Dairy products
High-fat foods
Mushrooms
Onions
Garlic
Salty snacks
Chocolate
Umbrella Cockatoos, avoiding certain foods is crucial to their health and well-being. Toxic foods like chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol should be completely avoided, as they can lead to severe health issues such as heart problems, gastrointestinal distress, and even death. Avocado is especially dangerous because it contains persin, a toxin that can cause serious respiratory and digestive issues. High-salt foods, including processed meats, salty snacks, and fast food, should be kept out of their diet to prevent hypertension and kidney problems. Sugary treats and processed foods can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders, so these should also be avoided. Nuts and seeds, while nutritious in moderation, should not dominate their diet due to their high-fat content, which can lead to weight gain and related health issues. Additionally, raw beans and uncooked potatoes are unsafe due to potential toxins and digestive disturbances. E
Health
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 1,000 - ₹ 1,500
Recognising Stress
Feather Plucking
Tail Bobbing
Excessive Vocalization
Aggression
Withdrawal or Hiding
Loss of Appetite
Repetitive Movements
Common Health Issues
Respiratory Infections
Psittacosis
Feather Plucking
Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease (PBFD)
Aspergillosis
Candidiasis
Nutritional Deficiencies (e.g., Vitamin A deficiency)
Energy Level
High
Preventative measure
Physical checkup every 6-12 months
Annual Blood Work
Annual Fecal Exam
Beak Assessment
Nail Trimming
Feather Assessment
Environmental Enrichment
Medical Care
Umbrella Cockatoos require diligent medical care to ensure their health and well-being. Regular veterinary checkups, including physical exams, blood work, and fecal tests, are essential for early detection and treatment of health issues. Providing a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients helps prevent nutritional deficiencies. Environmental enrichment and regular social interaction are crucial for their mental and physical health. Observing for signs of stress and illness, such as feather plucking or changes in appetite, can help in timely intervention and care. Maintaining a clean and stimulating environment helps prevent common health problems and promotes overall well-being.
Prerequisites to pet a Umbrella cockatoo
Time Commitment.
Noise Tolerance.
Living Space.
Enrichment Activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do Umbrella Cockatoos eat?
Their diet should include high-quality pellets, seeds, nuts, fresh fruits, vegetables, and protein sources like cooked eggs.
Can Umbrella Cockatoos talk?
Yes, they can mimic human speech and sounds, though not as extensively as some other parrot species.
Do Umbrella Cockatoos need a lot of attention?
Yes, they require a lot of social interaction and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and behavioral issues.
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