Galah Cockatoo
Eolophus roseicapilla
Australia • Pink & Grey Beauty
IUCN Status
Least Concern
The Galah Cockatoo (Eolophus roseicapilla), also known as the Rose-breasted Cockatoo, is one of Australia’s most beloved and widespread parrots. Instantly recognisable by its striking pink chest and head contrasting with soft grey wings and back, the Galah is famous for its playful, cheeky, and highly social personality. It is an excellent talker and mimic, forms strong bonds with its owners, and is generally easier to keep than larger white cockatoos. Its acrobatic flight and loud, cheerful calls make it a lively addition to any collection.
General Description
| Common Name | Galah Cockatoo (Rose-breasted Cockatoo) |
| Latin Name | Eolophus roseicapilla |
| Family | Cacatuidae • Cockatoos |
| Adult Size | 35–38 cm (14 in) |
| Weight | 300–400 g |
| Life Span | 40–70+ years in captivity |
| Sexual Maturity | 3–5 years |
| Clutch Size | 2–5 eggs |
| Gender Difference | Minimal visual dimorphism. Males are slightly larger with darker eyes; DNA testing is recommended for certainty. |
| Natural Habitat | Open woodlands, grasslands, farmlands, and urban parks across Australia. |
| Origin / Range | Widespread across mainland Australia (except far north and extreme southwest). |
| Care Level | Intermediate • Highly social and needs plenty of interaction and enrichment |
Eolophus roseicapilla • Adult showing classic pink and grey plumage
ROSE-BREASTED COCKATOO • AUSTRALIA’S CHEEKY FAVOURITE
Subspecies & Plumage
Four subspecies are recognised, differing mainly in the intensity of the pink coloration and size:
| Subspecies | Main Range | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|
| E. r. roseicapilla (Nominate) | Eastern and southern Australia | Brightest pink head and chest with contrasting grey wings. |
| E. r. albiceps | Inland and western Australia | Paler pink with more white on the head in some populations. |
| E. r. kuhli | Northern Australia | Slightly smaller with deeper pink tones. |
| E. r. assimilis | Southwest Australia | Paler overall with subtle differences in grey shading. |
General Plumage Notes: The Galah has a bright rose-pink head, neck, and underparts, with soft grey back and wings. The crest is white with pink highlights when raised. The beak is pale horn-coloured, and the eyes are dark. Juveniles have duller pink plumage and greyish eyes that gradually turn darker.
Conservation Status:
Least Concern (IUCN Red List) — CITES Appendix II
Eolophus Genus
Australia
Rose-breasted Cockatoo