Scientific Name:
Cacatua moluccensis
Distribution
S. Moluccan Islands of Indonesia
Diet:
Seeds, nuts, fruits, berries, unripe coconuts, insects and their larvae.
Facts
Habitat: Lowland rainforest below altitudes of 1200m.
Incubation: 28-29 days / 1-3 eggs
Social structure: single, pairs or small groups of up to 16 birds (in non-breeding season).
Weight: 850gr
Dimensions: 40-50cm
Lifespan: 66 max in human care.
Estimated population in the wild: 10,000-100,000
Threats: extensive poaching for the pet trade and habitat loss and fragmentation.
IUCN Status: Vulnerable
Did you know that:
- The crest on its head raises when threatened or excited.
- They have one of the shrillest calls of all birds and can mimic the sound of other animals, including humans. Their loud raucous call can be heard up to 1 km away.
- They have strong beaks and are considered pests in coconut plantations because they feed on young coconuts.
- The female is slightly larger with a dark brown iris, whereas male's iris is black.