Cacatua & Eolophus spp. — Expressive, affectionate, and utterly charismatic — the clowns of the parrot world.
| Characteristic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Cacatua & Eolophus spp. |
| Size | 30–70 cm (species-dependent) |
| Wingspan | 45–80 cm |
| Lifespan | 40–80 years |
| Vocabulary | 30–60 words |
| Noise Level | Very loud |
| Family Suitability | Experienced owners |
| CITES Status | CITES Appendix I/II |
Cockatoos are a group of 21 parrot species native to Australasia, distinguished by their dramatic erectile crests, powder-down feathers, and extraordinary emotional expressiveness. From the blush-pink Galah Cockatoo (Eolophus roseicapilla) to the imposing white Sulphur-crested Cockatoo (Cacatua galerita), these birds are celebrated worldwide for their affectionate natures, theatrical personalities, and powerful bonds with their human companions.
At Paraíso de Aves, we breed and hand-raise cockatoos in our specialist facility in Llíria, Valencia. Our birds are socialised from the very first week of life, accustomed to human contact, household sounds, and handling before they leave our care. Every bird departs with complete CITES documentation, a veterinary health certificate, and ring identification.
We principally work with the Galah Cockatoo (pink-and-grey, medium-sized, and widely considered the most adaptable cockatoo for family life) and the Sulphur-crested Cockatoo (large, white, yellow crest, formidably intelligent). Availability varies by season — contact us to enquire about specific species.
Cockatoos are the most emotionally dependent parrots in aviculture. They form extraordinarily intense bonds with their primary companions and require more social contact than virtually any other bird species. A hand-raised cockatoo left alone for long periods will develop severe stress behaviours — screaming, feather destruction, self-mutilation in extreme cases.
This makes them deeply rewarding for owners who can dedicate the time, and genuinely unsuitable for those who cannot. If you work full-time and cannot arrange substantial daily interaction, a cockatoo is not the right bird.
Cockatoos are prone to nutritional deficiencies and obesity on seed-heavy diets:
Cockatoos — particularly Galahs — are highly prone to obesity and associated lipomas. A low-fat, pellet-based diet is essential for long-term health. Avoid avocado, chocolate, caffeine, onion, and garlic.
Real photographs from our breeding facility in Llíria, Valencia — not stock images.
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Galahs are often well-suited to family environments given proper socialisation. Larger cockatoos (Sulphur-crested, Umbrella) are better suited to experienced, committed owners who can provide the intense daily interaction they require.
Cockatoos are naturally highly social birds and vocalise loudly to communicate with their flock. In captivity, screaming most commonly occurs when the bird is bored, lonely, or seeking attention. Ensuring sufficient daily interaction and enrichment reduces screaming significantly.
Galahs: 40–60 years; Sulphur-crested: 70–80 years or longer. These are extremely long-lived birds. A Sulphur-crested Cockatoo named Cookie held the Guinness World Record for the oldest known parrot at 83 years.
Yes. Most commercially sold cockatoos require CITES documentation — Appendix I or II depending on species. We provide complete paperwork with every bird.
Contact us at paraisodeloros@gmail.com for current pricing and species availability.
Yes — via specialist live-animal air cargo with IATA-approved travel crates.
They are among the most demanding pet birds due to their intense social needs and powerful beaks. They are not recommended for first-time bird owners. Their rewards are exceptional for the right owner, but the commitment should not be underestimated.
They can learn 30–60 words with consistent training. Galah Cockatoos tend to be better talkers than Sulphur-crested. Their voices are often softer and more melodic than macaws.
Contact us to discuss current availability, pricing, and the delivery process. We answer all enquiries promptly and without obligation.