Buy Cockatoos as Pets: Which One Is Right for You?
Discover the best cockatoo species for your lifestyle — from cuddly companions to chatty charmers!
Considering a cockatoo as your next feathered family member? These brilliant, affectionate, and often hilarious parrots are more than just pretty faces — they’re some of the most intelligent and emotionally tuned pets you can bring into your home.
In this guide, we’ll explore six of the most popular cockatoo species kept as pets in Australia and worldwide. Whether you’re seeking a social butterfly, a quieter companion, or a cheeky chatterbox, there’s a cockatoo that’s perfect for you.
1. Moluccan Cockatoo – The Affectionate Sweetheart
With soft salmon-pink feathers and a heart-melting personality, the Moluccan Cockatoo is often hailed as the friendliest cockatoo around. These birds are deeply affectionate, crave attention, and bond strongly with their human families.
Best For: Experienced bird owners with time and space
Not Ideal For: Apartment dwellers (they’re LOUD!)
Quick Facts
Length: 20″+
Weight: 700–1,000g
Crest Color: Salmon
Noise Level: Very loud
Life Expectancy: Up to 80 years
Origin: Southern Moluccan Islands, Indonesia
Common Health Issues: Feather plucking, obesity, PBFD, fatty liver
🛠 Care Tip: Give them a large cage, plenty of out-of-cage time, and enrichment toys to avoid stress.
2. Umbrella Cockatoo – The Social Showstopper
Famous for their stunning, umbrella-like white crests and their outgoing, loving nature, Umbrella Cockatoos are always the life of the party. They’re huggable, hoppy, and happiest when they’re around people.
Best For: Highly interactive households
Not Ideal For: Quiet homes or apartment settings
Quick Facts
Length: 18–22″
Weight: 400–700g
Noise Level: Very loud
Life Expectancy: 70–80 years
Origin: Indonesia
Common Health Issues: Feather plucking, atherosclerosis, obesity
🛠 Care Tip: Daily mental stimulation and socialization are key to a happy Umbrella.
3. Goffin’s Cockatoo – The Playful Genius
Don’t let their smaller size fool you — Goffins are full of mischief and smarts. These birds are excellent at solving puzzles and thrive in homes that offer lots of attention, playtime, and interaction.
Best For: Active households that enjoy training and play
Not Ideal For: Owners who are often away
Quick Facts
Length: 12.5″
Weight: 220–390g
Noise Level: Loud, but less than larger cockatoos
Life Expectancy: Up to 40 years
Origin: Tanimbar Islands, Indonesia
Common Health Issues: Obesity, PBFD, feather plucking
🛠 Care Tip: Rotate toys and introduce new challenges weekly.
4. Bare-Eyed Cockatoo – The Curious Charmer
Also known as the Little Corella, the Bare-Eyed Cockatoo is a talkative, trainable, and incredibly funny pet. Their blue-rimmed eyes and expressive faces make them unforgettable.
Best For: Bird lovers who want an interactive, vocal pet
Not Ideal For: Homes looking for a quiet pet
Quick Facts
Length: 14–16″
Weight: ~1,000g
Noise Level: Loud
Life Expectancy: 50 years
Origin: Australia and Southern New Guinea
Common Health Issues: Fatty liver disease, behavioral issues
🛠 Care Tip: Talk to them often — they love the attention!
5. Galah (Rose-Breasted Cockatoo) – The Aussie Entertainer
With pink chests and cheeky personalities, Galahs are Aussie icons. They’re independent but friendly, and their goofy antics can brighten even the dullest day.
Best For: Families and first-time cockatoo owners
Not Ideal For: Those seeking a cuddly bird
Quick Facts
Length: 12–15″
Weight: 270–350g
Noise Level: Moderate (but can develop screeching)
Life Expectancy: Around 40 years
Origin: Australia
Common Health Issues: PBFD, feather plucking, lipomas
🛠 Care Tip: Avoid over-cuddling — Galahs prefer interaction through play.
6. Citron Cockatoo – The Quiet Talker
Citron Cockatoos are gentler, more reserved members of the cockatoo clan. Their soft orange crests and mellow voices make them a good fit for quieter households seeking a bird with both brains and beauty.
Best For: Calm homes with consistent routines
Not Ideal For: Households with irregular schedules
Quick Facts
Length: 12–14″
Weight: 300–500g
Noise Level: Quieter (but still vocal)
Life Expectancy: Up to 50 years
Origin: Sumba Island, Indonesia
Common Health Issues: Sarcocystis, PDD, feather plucking
🛠 Care Tip: Include seeds, nuts, fruits, and fresh foods in their diet.
Which Cockatoo is the Friendliest?
That crown goes to the Moluccan Cockatoo! Their affectionate personality and deep emotional bonds make them unmatched companions for experienced bird lovers. Training them is a joy — they respond beautifully to positive reinforcement and structured routines.
How Smart Are Cockatoos?
Very! Cockatoos are among the most intelligent parrots, capable of mimicking speech, solving puzzles, and performing tricks. Programs like Parrot Kindergarten — 5-minute training sessions with colorful toys and social interaction — help develop their brains while strengthening your bond.
Pros and Cons of Owning a Cockatoo
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| Deeply affectionate | Require 3–4 hours of daily attention |
| Highly intelligent | Loud — up to 130 decibels |
| Playful and social | Prone to feather plucking if neglected |
| Long lifespan | Messy and chew everything |
| Good talkers | Space and time commitments |
| Stunning appearance | Emit powdery dander |
Ready to Welcome a Cockatoo Into Your Life?
Whether you’re drawn to the lovable Moluccan, the clever Goffin, or the vibrant Galah, there’s a cockatoo out there waiting to join your flock. Remember, a happy cockatoo is a loved, stimulated, and well-cared-for companion.
For expert advice, supplies, and beautiful birds, visit Exotic Parrot Shop Australia — your trusted source for healthy, happy exotic birds!