Carnaby's black cockatoo, also known as the short-billed black cockatoo, is a large black cockatoo endemic to southwest Australia. It was described in 1948 by naturalist Ivan Carnaby. Measuring 53–58 cm (21–23 in) in length, it has a short crest on the top of its head. Its plumage is mostly greyish black, and it has prominent white cheek patches and a white tail band. The body feathers are edged with white giving a scalloped appearance. Adult males have a dark grey beak and pink eye-rings. Adult females have a bone-coloured beak, grey eye-rings and ear patches that are paler than those of the males.
Region
Southwest Australia
Typical Environment
Breeds mainly in the Wheatbelt and adjacent inland areas where large hollow-bearing eucalypts persist, then shifts seasonally to the Swan Coastal Plain and other coastal woodlands. It frequents banksia-dominated shrublands, open eucalypt woodlands, and proteaceous heath. Outside the breeding season, flocks can gather near Perth and along the coastal plain. The species also forages in farmland edges and, historically, in pine plantations where cone crops were available.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 600 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Carnaby's black cockatoo, also called the short-billed black cockatoo, is endemic to southwestern Australia and forms long-term pair bonds. It relies on large old eucalypts for nesting hollows and often moves seasonally to coastal woodlands after breeding. The species has adapted to feed on introduced pine cones but declines in pine plantations and native banksia woodlands have impacted food security.
Female flying and male perching on tree
Carnaby's black cockatoos form larger groups outside of breeding season.
Female feeding in Kings Park
Temperament
social and alert
Flight Pattern
strong flier with deep, steady wingbeats and gliding interludes
Social Behavior
Usually forms tight-knit pairs within small to large flocks, especially outside the breeding season. Monogamous pairs nest in deep hollows of large eucalypts, typically raising one chick successfully. Communal roosting sites are used near foraging grounds on the coastal plain after breeding.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Calls are loud, carrying wails and drawn-out 'wee-la' notes, often given in flight. Contact calls within flocks include harsh screeches and chattering, while nest communication is softer and more guttural.
Plumage
Mostly greyish-black with white edging on body feathers giving a scalloped look; short crest present.
Diet
Feeds primarily on seeds and nuts of native proteaceous plants such as Banksia and Hakea, as well as eucalypts and grevilleas. It also takes nectar and occasionally fruit. In some areas it exploits introduced pine cones, prying out seeds with its powerful bill.
Preferred Environment
Forages in banksia woodlands, proteaceous heath, and open eucalypt woodland, often along ecotones with farmland. Will also feed in remnants near urban areas and historically in pine plantations when cone crops were available.
