Sulphur-crested Cockatoo
Cacatua galerita
Australia & New Guinea • Iconic White Cockatoo
IUCN Status
Least Concern
The Sulphur-crested Cockatoo (Cacatua galerita) is one of the most iconic and recognisable parrots in the world. Famous for its brilliant white plumage, massive sulphur-yellow crest, and loud, raucous personality, this large cockatoo is highly intelligent, social, and long-lived. It is an excellent talker and mimic, forms strong bonds with its owners, and is known for its playful, cheeky, and sometimes mischievous nature. While common in the wild across Australia and New Guinea, it requires experienced care due to its loud voice and high demand for attention and enrichment.
General Description
| Common Name | Sulphur-crested Cockatoo |
| Latin Name | Cacatua galerita |
| Family | Cacatuidae • Cockatoos |
| Adult Size | 45–50 cm (18–20 in) |
| Weight | 700–950 g |
| Life Span | 50–80+ years in captivity |
| Sexual Maturity | 4–6 years |
| Clutch Size | 2–3 eggs |
| Gender Difference | Minimal visual dimorphism. Males are slightly larger with broader beaks; DNA testing is recommended. |
| Natural Habitat | Rainforests, woodlands, farmlands, and urban parks with tall trees. |
| Origin / Range | Australia (eastern and northern regions), New Guinea, and nearby islands. |
| Care Level | Advanced • Very loud, demanding, and needs large space and constant enrichment |
Cacatua galerita • Adult showing dramatic sulphur-yellow crest
SULPHUR-CRESTED COCKATOO • AUSTRALIA’S ICONIC WHITE COCKATOO
Subspecies & Plumage
Four subspecies are recognised, differing mainly in size and the intensity of the yellow crest:
| Subspecies | Main Range | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|
| C. g. galerita (Nominate) | Eastern Australia | Largest form with the most vibrant sulphur-yellow crest. |
| C. g. triton | New Guinea and nearby islands | Slightly smaller with a more intense yellow crest. |
| C. g. fitzroyi | Northern Australia | Paler overall with subtle differences in crest colour. |
| C. g. eleonora | Aru Islands | Smallest subspecies with slightly less yellow on the crest. |
General Plumage Notes: The Sulphur-crested Cockatoo has pure white plumage with a dramatic, forward-sweeping sulphur-yellow crest. The underwings and undertail show a faint yellowish tint. The beak is black and powerful. Juveniles have shorter crests and slightly duller yellow.
Conservation Status:
Least Concern (IUCN Red List) — CITES Appendix II
Cacatua Genus
Australia & New Guinea
Sulphur-crested Cockatoo