Moluccan Cockatoo

Cacatua moluccensis

The Moluccan Cockatoo is very popular in the pet trade, but this has drastically decreased their wild population. At the height of trapping, around 6,000 cockatoos were removed from the wild per year. Now, their population is estimated at around 2,000. They are one of the loudest parrot species, have high intelligence and emotions, have long lifespans and constantly need to chew to maintain beak health. These factors result in them being constantly rehomed if kept as a pet.

Quick Facts

Scientific Name:

Cacatua moluccensis

Native Range:

Native to Eastern Indonesia and South Moluccas.

Habitat:

They prefer lowland forests, which are 3,300 ft in elevation.

Convservation Status:

Endangered

Museum Location:

Ambassador Animal

Lifespan in the Wild:

20-40 years

Lifespan in Captivity:

Up to 80 years

Diet:

Their diet mainly consists of nuts, fruits and seeds, but may also eat small insects.