What should I look for when buying a cockatoo?

If you’re considering adding a cockatoo to your family, you’re embarking on an incredible journey. These are not just pets; they are lifelong companions known for their intelligence, affection, and vibrant personalities. But they are also a significant commitment, and knowing What should I look for when buying a cockatoo is the first and most crucial step. As Michael Anderson from THE COCKATOO HOME, I’ve spent years working with these magnificent birds, and I’ve seen firsthand how a well-informed decision can lead to a beautiful, lasting bond. This guide is designed to give you the insider knowledge you need to make the right choice, ensuring you find a healthy, well-socialized parrot that will thrive in your home.

Key Takeaways

• Health is Paramount: Look for a cockatoo that is bright-eyed, alert, and active. Check for clear nostrils, a smooth beak, and clean, well-preened feathers. A healthy cockatoo is the foundation of a happy partnership.
• The Breeder’s Role is Crucial: A reputable breeder is your most valuable resource. They should be knowledgeable, transparent about their breeding practices, and dedicated to the well-being of their birds. Ask about their experience, the parents’ health, and the bird’s socialization.
• Temperament is Everything: Cockatoos are known as “Velcro birds” for a reason. They crave attention and form strong bonds. When you’re asking what should you look for when buying a cockatoo, pay close attention to the bird’s personality. A well-socialized cockatoo should be confident and comfortable around people.
• A Lifelong Commitment: Remember, a cockatoo can live for 50-70 years or more. This is a monumental decision. It’s not just about today; it’s about providing a loving home for the rest of their life.
• The Right Environment: The financial investment in a cockatoo goes far beyond the purchase price. Be prepared for the costs of a large, sturdy cage, a varied diet, toys, and regular vet visits. The right environment is a critical part of a cockatoo’s well-being.

The Foundation of a Great Companion: What should I look for when buying a cockatoo

When you first encounter a cockatoo you’re considering, your instincts will probably lead you to its charming personality and beautiful plumage. While these are important, the very first thing to look for is physical health. As an expert in this field and the owner of THE COCKATOO HOME, I can tell you that a bird’s health is the most reliable indicator of its future well-being and a testament to the breeder’s practices. If you’re asking what should you look for when buying a cockatoo, this is where you start.

First, observe the bird’s overall appearance. A healthy cockatoo should have sleek, clean feathers that are not ruffled or patchy. Feather plucking is a common issue with cockatoos, often a sign of stress, boredom, or a medical condition. While some birds might be going through a molt, excessive feather loss is a major red flag. The bird’s eyes should be clear, bright, and alert. Avoid birds with cloudy, runny, or dull eyes. A healthy beak should be smooth and well-formed, with no cracks or deformities. The nostrils should be clear and free of discharge.

Beyond their appearance, pay attention to the bird’s behavior. A healthy cockatoo is typically active, curious, and engaged with its surroundings. It should be moving around its cage, interacting with toys, and showing interest in you. A cockatoo that is lethargic, sitting puffed up, or constantly on the bottom of its cage could be ill. Listen to its breathing; it should be quiet and clear, with no clicking or wheezing sounds.

I always encourage potential buyers to spend time with the bird, just watching it from a distance before trying to interact. This gives you a true sense of its baseline behavior. This practical advice is at the core of what we do at THE COCKATOO HOME we want you to be confident in your choice, and that starts with a thorough understanding of the bird’s health.

When a breeder is confident in their birds, they will welcome these observations and be able to provide detailed health records. They should be able to tell you about the bird’s diet, its last vet check-up, and any preventative care it has received. This transparency is a key indicator of a breeder’s expertise and trustworthiness. Knowing what you should look for when buying a cockatoo means you’re not just relying on a promise; you’re looking for evidence of a healthy, thriving bird. A bird from a reputable breeder is an investment in a future of fewer vet bills and more joy.

The Breeder’s Experience: Why It Matters So Much

The breeder is arguably the most important factor in your decision. It’s not just about the bird you see today; it’s about the bird’s entire history and the foundation it was given. When you ask what should you look for when buying a cockatoo, you’re really asking, “What kind of breeder should I look for?” A good breeder does more than just sell birds—they are a dedicated expert who is passionate about their work and committed to the long-term well-being of their parrots.

A reputable breeder will have years of experience and deep knowledge of cockatoo species. They understand the nuances of different types, from the playful Goffin’s to the majestic Moluccan. They will be able to speak confidently about the specific needs of each species, including their temperament, noise level, and care requirements. They will also be able to tell you about the bird’s parents, including their health history, temperament, and even what they like to eat. This kind of in-depth knowledge is something you simply won’t find in a pet store.

At THE COCKATOO HOME, my goal is to be a resource for you for the life of your parrot. This commitment begins long before you take your bird home. I take the time to get to know my prospective clients, understanding their lifestyle and what they’re looking for in a companion. I do this not to be nosy, but to ensure that each cockatoo is going to a home where it will be happy and thrive.

I’ll discuss everything from cage size and diet to the importance of daily interaction. I’ll also be honest about the challenges of cockatoo ownership, because it’s not always a smooth road. These birds are known for their demanding nature, their loud calls, and their intelligence, which can be both a blessing and a curse. This honest, knowledgeable approach is a hallmark of a breeder who is an authority in their field.

When you’re asking what should you look for when buying a cockatoo, look for a breeder who asks you as many questions as you ask them. They should be as invested in finding the right home for their bird as you are in finding the right bird for your home. They should invite you to their facility to see the living conditions and meet the birds. This kind of transparency and care is a clear sign of trustworthiness and a sign that you are dealing with a professional, not a backyard operation.

The Importance of Socialization and Weaning

A cockatoo’s early life is crucial for its development, and proper socialization and weaning are key to raising a well-adjusted bird. This is a critical point to consider when you’re figuring out what you should look for when buying a cockatoo. A hand-fed, well-socialized cockatoo is a far better pet than one that was not given the proper start in life.

A reputable breeder will hand-feed their chicks, which helps them bond with humans from a young age. This process, however, should not be rushed. Forced or early weaning can lead to a host of behavioral problems, including a lack of confidence, anxiety, and a tendency to scream or become aggressive. A cockatoo should be fully weaned and eating on its own before it goes to a new home. This is a topic I cover in depth with every one of our clients at THE COCKATOO HOME. I will never let a bird go home until I am 100% certain it is ready.

Beyond hand-feeding, a good breeder will ensure the chick is exposed to a variety of sounds, people, and experiences. We introduce our birds to different members of the family, different types of music, and various household noises. This helps them become comfortable in a typical home environment. We also encourage them to play with different toys and to spend time outside of their cage on a play stand.

This teaches them independent play and prevents them from becoming overly dependent on human interaction, a common problem that leads to separation anxiety. When you’re asking what should you look for when buying a cockatoo, ask the breeder about their socialization process. The more detailed their answer, the more confident you can be in their expertise.

A bird that has been properly socialized will be more adaptable, confident, and a joy to be around. They will be less prone to behavioral issues and more likely to form a strong, healthy bond with their new family. This commitment to early development is what sets a professional breeder apart from the rest. It is a time-consuming and labor-intensive process, but it is one that pays dividends for the life of the bird and its owner.

Your Questions, Answered: The Ultimate Cockatoo Buyer’s Guide

So you’ve done your research, you’ve assessed the breeder, and you’re ready to make a decision. Now it’s time to get down to the nitty-gritty. Here is a long list of specific questions to ask and things to look for that go beyond the basics. This is the ultimate what you should look for when buying a cockatoo checklist.

• Health Certifications and Vet Visits: Has the bird been DNA sexed? Do you have a list of all its vaccinations and vet visits? Has it been tested for common avian diseases like Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease (PBFD) or Chlamydophila psittaci? A responsible breeder will be able to provide all of this documentation without hesitation.
• Dietary Habits: What is the bird currently eating? This includes not just its main diet of pellets and seeds, but also the types of fresh fruits, vegetables, and nuts it enjoys. A diverse diet is crucial for a cockatoo’s health, and knowing what they are used to eating will make the transition to your home much smoother.
• Weaning and Age: At what age was the bird weaned, and was it done gradually? A bird should be fully weaned and eating on its own before it is sold. Ask to see the bird eat on its own.
• Socialization and Behavior: How much time does the bird spend outside of its cage? Does it interact with different people, including men and women? What kind of toys does it prefer? Is it comfortable with being handled? I always advise people to observe how the bird reacts to your presence and your touch.
• Physical Exam: Beyond the general appearance, check the bird’s feet and legs for any scaly texture or deformities. The claws should be in good condition. Look at the vent area—it should be clean and free of any fecal matter, which can indicate an illness.
• Paperwork and Guarantees: Does the breeder provide a health guarantee? Will they be available to answer questions after you take the bird home? A reputable breeder will offer some form of health guarantee and a clear contract outlining the terms of the sale. This is a sign of their confidence and their commitment to their birds.
• Living Conditions: Ask to see the living environment of not just the bird you’re interested in, but also the parents and other birds in the aviary. The cages should be clean, spacious, and filled with toys. The birds should look healthy and well-cared for.

By going through this checklist, you are performing a due diligence that will not only ensure you get a healthy bird but will also give you peace of mind that you are supporting an ethical and reputable breeder. This kind of detailed inquiry is what THE COCKATOO HOME encourages and supports. We want our birds to go to homes where they will be loved and cared for, and that starts with an educated owner.

Conclusion

Choosing to bring a cockatoo into your life is a deeply personal and rewarding decision. They are intelligent, affectionate, and truly remarkable creatures that will fill your home with laughter and love. However, their unique needs and long lifespan require a commitment that cannot be taken lightly. By understanding what you should look for when buying a cockatoo, you are not just making a purchase; you are beginning a partnership built on trust, responsibility, and mutual respect.

A reputable breeder, like us at THE COCKATOO HOME, is your partner in this journey. We are here to provide not only the highest quality, well-cared-for birds but also the knowledge and support you need to ensure a long and happy life together. A healthy, well-socialized cockatoo from a knowledgeable source is an investment in a future filled with joy and companionship.

Frequently Asked Questions