Cockatoo for sale in the Netherlands

Cockatoos: behaviour and suitability

Cockatoos form close bonds but are readily destabilised by exclusive human attachment, boredom or inconsistent handling. Screaming, biting and feather damage often signal inadequate living conditions. Always assess the actual animal and, when a trade label covers several species, verify the scientific name before acquisition. Age, sex, health and previous housing can noticeably influence behaviour.

Care and housing

Plan a very strong spacious aviary, safe daily flight, several hours of foraging and destruction and social contact with a compatible conspecific. Check noise, neighbours, future care and rehoming before acquisition. Set up the complete enclosure before the animal arrives and record relevant values and daily behaviour. A sudden change in appetite, activity, breathing, posture or droppings calls for a check of the environment and, where needed, knowledgeable help.

Health and responsible acquisition

Ask for CITES documents, ring or chip, origin, behavioural history and medical records. Have breast muscles, beak, feathers, feet and respiratory system assessed by an avian veterinarian. Never buy an unweaned bird. Ask the seller about age, origin, current care and known health problems, and ensure any documents belong to the animal offered. Never choose on colour, size or price alone, and identify a knowledgeable veterinarian or other species expert before urgent problems arise.