Red-vented Cockatoo

Cacatua haematuropygia Philippines • Critically Endangered
IUCN Status
Critically Endangered
The Red-vented Cockatoo (Cacatua haematuropygia), also known as the Philippine Cockatoo, is a beautiful medium-sized white cockatoo endemic to the Philippines. It is distinguished by its snowy-white plumage, bright red undertail coverts (the “red vent”), and a prominent crest. Known for its playful, intelligent, and affectionate personality, this species is an excellent talker and mimic. Unfortunately, due to habitat loss, illegal trapping for the pet trade, and persecution as a crop pest, it is now listed as Critically Endangered in the wild. Captive breeding is vital for its survival.

General Description

Common Name Red-vented Cockatoo (Philippine Cockatoo)
Latin Name Cacatua haematuropygia
Family Cacatuidae • Cockatoos
Adult Size 30–32 cm (12 in)
Weight 300–400 g
Life Span 40–60+ 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 Lowland rainforests, mangrove forests, forest edges, and agricultural areas.
Origin / Range Endemic to the Philippines (primarily Palawan, Tawi-Tawi, and other islands).
Care Level Intermediate to Advanced • Requires large space and experienced keeper
Cacatua haematuropygia - Red-vented Cockatoo
Cacatua haematuropygia • Adult showing red vent and white plumage

PHILIPPINE RED-VENTED COCKATOO • CRITICALLY ENDANGERED BEAUTY

Subspecies & Plumage

The Red-vented Cockatoo is currently considered monotypic (no recognised subspecies), though some regional variation in size and red intensity has been noted across the Philippine islands.

Key Plumage Features

This medium-sized cockatoo has pure snowy-white plumage with a prominent crest. The most distinctive feature is the bright red undertail coverts (the “red vent”). It has a black beak and pale blue-grey eye skin. The underwings often show a faint yellowish tint. The red vent is especially vivid when the bird is in flight or when the tail is raised.

Juveniles have slightly duller red vent feathers and less developed crests. Red-vented Cockatoos are known for being playful, intelligent, and relatively quiet compared to larger white cockatoos.

Conservation Status: Critically Endangered (IUCN Red List) — CITES Appendix I
Cacatua Genus
Philippines
Red-vented / Philippine Cockatoo