Cacatua moluccensis
The Salmon-crested Cockatoo, also known as the Moluccan Cockatoo, is an awe-inspiring, large white parrot celebrated for its stunning salmon-pink crest and highly intelligent, often boisterous personality. Reaching lengths of up to 50 cm (20 in) and weighing around 850 g (1.9 lbs), it is among the largest of the white cockatoos, often identified by its prominent, retractable erectile crest, which flushes a vibrant salmon-pink when raised. Subtle yellow undertail coverts and underwings, along ...
Primarily inhabits tropical lowland rainforests, particularly in undisturbed primary forests, but also found in secondary growth, mangroves, and sometimes agricultural areas, typically below 900-1000 meters elevation.
Feeds primarily on seeds, nuts, fruits, and berries, supplemented by flowers, buds, insects, and larvae, foraging predominantly in the forest canopy.
Salmon-crested Cockatoos are diurnal and highly social, typically forming large, noisy flocks outside the breeding season, which roost communally in tall forest trees. Their foraging involves agile climbing and dexterous use of their powerful beak and zygodactyl feet to extract seeds, nuts, and f...
The Salmon-crested Cockatoo is endemic to a highly restricted range within the Maluku Islands of eastern Indonesia, primarily confined to Seram, Ambon, Saparua, and Haruku. Its core breeding population is concentrated on Seram Island, particularly in the lowland and hill forests, with significant...
Endangered
- The Salmon-crested Cockatoo is one of the largest white cockatoo species, often exceeding 50 cm (20 inches) in length. - In captivity, they are known to live for over 80 years, making them one of the longest-lived parrot species. - Their vibrant, salmon-pink crest is a key indicator of their em...