The little corella, also known as the short-billed corella, bare-eyed cockatoo, blood-stained cockatoo, and little cockatoo is a white cockatoo native to Australia and southern New Guinea. It was known as Birdirra among the Yindjibarndi people of the central and western Pilbara. They would keep them as pets, or traditionally cook and eat them. The downy feathers are used in traditional ceremonies and dances where they adorn head and armbands.
Region
Australia and southern New Guinea
Typical Environment
Little corellas occupy open woodlands, savannas, arid and semi-arid grasslands, riverine corridors, and agricultural districts. They readily exploit human-modified habitats, including town parks, golf courses, and grain storage sites. Roosts are typically in large trees near permanent water. In drier regions they make opportunistic local movements tracking rainfall and seeding grasses.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The little corella is a small white cockatoo native to Australia and southern New Guinea, often forming large, noisy flocks around water and farmlands. It is known as Birdirra among the Yindjibarndi people of the Pilbara, who traditionally kept, used, and celebrated the bird in ceremonies. Highly adaptable and intelligent, it thrives in urban areas and agricultural landscapes, sometimes becoming a crop pest. Its bare blue eye-ring and subtle pink wash on the face distinguish it from other white cockatoos.
Little corella on nest. Near Tibooburra, New South Wales
Little corella playing with a feather
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
strong flier with rapid wingbeats and short glides
Social Behavior
They gather in large, cohesive flocks that roost communally and feed on the ground in open areas. Pairs are typically monogamous and nest in tree hollows, often near water. Breeding timing varies with rainfall and local conditions, and flocks may congregate at abundant food sources.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Vocalizations are loud, harsh screeches and grating calls, especially in flight and at communal roosts. They also produce softer chatters and contact calls within feeding groups.
