Blue-eyed Cockatoo

Cacatua ophthalmica New Britain • Rare & Striking
IUCN Status
Vulnerable
The Blue-eyed Cockatoo (Cacatua ophthalmica) is one of the most beautiful and sought-after white cockatoos. Endemic to the island of New Britain, it is distinguished by its snowy-white plumage, prominent blue eye-rings, and a large, expressive crest. Known for its gentle, intelligent, and affectionate nature, this species is highly social and forms strong bonds with its owners. Due to habitat loss on its limited range, it is considered Vulnerable in the wild, making responsible captive breeding increasingly important.

General Description

Common Name Blue-eyed Cockatoo
Latin Name Cacatua ophthalmica
Family Cacatuidae • Cockatoos
Adult Size 50 cm (20 in)
Weight 500–700 g
Life Span 40–60+ years in captivity
Sexual Maturity 5–7 years
Clutch Size 2 eggs
Gender Difference No reliable visual sexual dimorphism. Males are slightly larger with broader beaks; DNA testing is required.
Natural Habitat Lowland and hill rainforests, forest edges, and areas with tall trees on New Britain.
Origin / Range Endemic to the island of New Britain (Papua New Guinea).
Care Level Advanced • Requires large space, strong enrichment, and experienced keeper
Cacatua ophthalmica - Blue-eyed Cockatoo
Cacatua ophthalmica • Adult showing bright blue eye-ring

NEW BRITAIN BLUE-EYED COCKATOO • RARE & ELEGANT

Subspecies & Plumage

The Blue-eyed Cockatoo is currently considered monotypic (no recognised subspecies).

Key Plumage Features

This elegant white cockatoo has snowy-white plumage with a prominent bright blue eye-ring that gives the species its name. It possesses a large, expressive crest that can be raised when excited or alarmed. The beak is black and powerful, and the feet are grey. The blue eye-ring is particularly vivid in adults and is one of the most striking features of this cockatoo.

Juveniles have duller eye-rings and less developed crests. This species is known for being relatively quiet compared to other white cockatoos and is an excellent mimic when properly socialised.

Conservation Status: Vulnerable (IUCN Red List) — CITES Appendix II
Cacatua Genus
New Britain (Papua New Guinea)
Blue-eyed White Cockatoo