Major Mitchell’S Cockatoo Complete Guide

Species Overview

• Common Names: Major Mitchell’s Cockatoo, Pink Cockatoo, Leadbeater’s Cockatoo, Wee Juggler, Desert Cockatoo, Cocklerina, Chockalott
• Scientific Name: Lophochroa leadbeateri
• Adult Size: 13 to 15 inches in length
• Life Expectancy: Lives up to 80 years in captivity, lives between 40 to 60 years in the wild

Origin and History

This bird is native to Australia’s interior, where they typically breed in pairs. They congregate in open spaces and wooded regions, but are almost always seen close to the water. With a few exceptions, like the galah cockatoos, the pairs usually stay to themselves.

Regrettably, due to human encroachment and development in their habitat, this species is rapidly losing its number. This species, which bears Major Sir Thomas Mitchell’s name, has a lifespan of 60 years in the wild but an 80-year lifespan in captivity.

Temperament

The fact that this species of bird needs a lot of care and consideration must be noted. When getting one of these temperamental birds, you should be sure you can take care of it because they form lifelong bonds with their owners.

While this species can be cantankerous, it is also recognized for being affectionate, humorous, lively, and cuddly. They do form lifelong bonds with their bonded humans, so when the person departs, they often become distressed.

Therefore, for instance, if you take a little trip and then return, your cockatoo can be upset and refuse to interact with you for a few days.

Pros

• A beautifully beautiful bird with a distinctive appearance
• Is smart and capable of learning games and tricks
• Loves people and is known to be fun

Cons

• It is known to occasionally become obnoxious and to
• Frequently become jealous of other people and animals who are around their bonded individual.
• Is harmful to keep around young children.

Speech & Vocalizations

You should be aware that this bird species is a constant talker and has a reputation for becoming rather loud. This bird is able to learn a few simple words and can be taught to mimic alarms and whistles, although it prefers to make natural sounds and is still quieter than some other cockatoos.

This is definitely not the finest bird to have as a pet if you live in an apartment building or somewhere where the neighbors are close to you and might be upset and complain because of his chirps and high-pitched calls.

Major Mitchell's Cockatoo Colors and Markings

The lovely salmon-pink Major Mitchell’s cockatoo is as previously mentioned. When his wings are stretched, they have brilliant pink and orange feathers with white tips. He has a multicolored crown.

The species’ males typically have brown eyes, while the females typically have pinkish-red eyes. Typically, men are smarter than their female counterparts.

Caring for the Major Mitchell's Cockatoo

You can buy a Major Mitchell’s cockatoo from a breeder if you’re tempted to do so, and you might end up being very pleased with your decision. It’s crucial to remember that this bird requires unique care and a setting that many bird owners just cannot give.

For instance, in order for this bird to be able to move about freely, Cockatoo cage must be at least 5 feet high. For the Cockatoo to have the space to move around as he needs to, the cage also needs to be at least 4 feet long. Regrettably, a lot of bird owners just lack the space for such a large cage.

Major Mitchell’s cockatoos are fairly powerful chewers and may chew through weak bars, so the cage you purchase should be robustly built. If you don’t want to return home to find your cockatoo sitting in the middle of your kitchen table, make sure the lock you have is strong and cockatoo-proof. This species can also open locks on doors.

In order to maintain the cleanliness of his feathers and the health of his skin, your cockatoo should be bathed frequently. The bird can be misted, and if you’d like, you can let him dry in the sun or a warm environment. Also, it’s crucial to avoid overly clipping his wing feathers.

Common Health Problems

The lifespan and health of this bird are fairly good. It is an emotional sensitive bird, though. He may become quickly depressed if he feels abandoned by his bonded individual. Avoid neglecting your cockatoo and exercise caution as this depression could swiftly develop into the bird self-mutilating and causing skin diseases.

You should keep an eye out for a few avian diseases with your cockatoo. Psittacine beak, bacterial infections, metal toxicity, feather disease, and fungus infections are some of these ailments. Make an appointment with your veterinarian for treatment if your cockatoo exhibits symptoms of these illnesses.

Diet and Nutrition

Major Mitchell’s cockatoos in the wild primarily survive on weeds, melons, and pine tree seeds. They also consume wheat grains and insect larvae. Yet, this bird in captivity has a reputation for being choosy, particularly when young.

Obesity is common in cockatoos, and the Major Mitchell is no exception. So, monitoring your bird’s consumption of fat from the start is crucial. It is advisable to provide them premium pellets, clean, fresh fruits and vegetables that are acceptable to birds, as well as some nuts like walnuts and pecans.

For optimum results, feed your cockatoo 14 cup of food and 14 cup of fresh fruits or vegetables once each day. Save the nuts aside for rewards for being a good bird.

Exercise

The cockatoo needs to be kept active to stay healthy, much like other parrots do. It is therefore ideal to allow your bird to be free of its cage for 3 to 4 hours each day. Your bird will have plenty of time to spread its wings once you release him from the cage.

Toys for your bird to chew on are necessary so that he can use his beak, but make sure they are secure toys. Have a water bowl and a mister close by as well because this breed enjoys playing in the water.

Where to Adopt or Buy a Major Mitchell's Cockatoo

You may still want to acquire one of these stunning birds and be wondering where to purchase one now that you are aware of everything there is to know about owning a Major Mitchell’s cockatoo.

You should make sure to buy your cockatoo from a reputable breeder, and it will cost you anything between $4,000 and $10,000. The cost varies according on the temperament, age, and whether the bird was nurtured by hand.

Conclusion

“Major Mitchell’s Cockatoo Complete Guide” by BestForPets (bestforpets.org) provides an overview of Major Mitchell’s cockatoos and everything you need to know before deciding to adopt one.

It’s important to remember that this breed is bonded to one person, so if you get one, you should be prepared to care for it and form a lifelong bond with it.