White cockatoo

The white cockatoo, also known as the umbrella cockatoo, is a medium-sized all-white cockatoo endemic to tropical rainforest on islands of Indonesia. When surprised, it extends a large and striking head crest, which has a semicircular shape. The wings and tail have a pale yellow or lemon color which is exposed when they fly. It is similar to other species of white cockatoo such as yellow-crested cockatoo, sulphur-crested cockatoo, and salmon-crested cockatoo, all of which have yellow, orange or pink crest feathers instead of white.

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Distribution

Region

North Maluku (North Moluccas)

Typical Environment

Occurs on several islands of North Maluku, notably Halmahera and nearby satellites. It inhabits primary and mature secondary lowland rainforest, forest edges, and riverine corridors. Birds also use selectively logged forest and sometimes coconut and mixed-crop plantations when large trees remain. They roost communally in tall emergent trees and nest in natural cavities. Proximity to intact canopy and large-diameter nest trees is critical for breeding.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 900 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size46–48 cm

Wing Span80–95 cm

Male Weight0.65 kg

Female Weight0.6 kg

Life Expectancy40 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 2/5

Useful to know

Also called the umbrella cockatoo, it raises a large semicircular white crest when excited or alarmed. Highly intelligent and social, it forms strong pair bonds and requires extensive mental stimulation in captivity. Illegal trapping and habitat loss have caused major declines, and it is protected in international trade. Its powerful bill can crack hard nuts and pry into bark for insects.

Gallery

Behaviour

Temperament

social and noisy

Flight Pattern

strong flier with deep wingbeats, short glides between trees

Social Behavior

Typically seen in pairs or small family groups, gathering in larger flocks at communal roosts. Forms long-term monogamous pairs that defend nest sites in tree cavities. Both sexes share incubation and chick-rearing duties. Juveniles may accompany parents for extended periods after fledging.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Loud, piercing screeches and repeated strident calls carry far through the forest. Also gives softer chatters and whistles during close social interactions. Alarm calls are rapid, harsh notes given with crest fully raised.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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White swamphen

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