Bare Eyed Cockatoo: Unique Traits and Care Guide

Are you captivated by the thought of sharing your home with a charismatic, intelligent, and deeply affectionate avian companion? If so, the Bare Eyed Cockatoo might just be the perfect feathered friend for you. Often overshadowed by their larger, flashier cousins, these delightful birds, scientifically known as Cacatua sanguinea, possess a unique charm and personality that makes them stand out. Their bare, blue-grey skin around the eyes, which gives them their distinctive name, isn’t just a quirky physical trait; it’s a window into a playful, curious, and incredibly social soul.

While all cockatoos are known for their intelligence and need for interaction, the Bare Eyed Cockatoo, sometimes called the “Little Corella” in their native Australia, brings a distinct blend of exuberance and sensitivity to the table. They are smaller than many other cockatoo species, making them a more manageable option for some households, yet they pack all the personality and potential for mischief into their compact form. Understanding their unique traits and specific care requirements is paramount to providing a happy, healthy, and enriching life for one of these remarkable birds. This comprehensive guide will delve deep into everything you need to know about welcoming a Bare Eyed Cockatoo into your family.

Meet the Bare-Eyed Cockatoo: An Introduction to Their Charm

The Bare Eyed Cockatoo is a testament to the fact that great personalities often come in smaller packages. Native to Australia and parts of New Guinea, these intelligent birds thrive in open woodlands, grasslands, and even urban environments. Their scientific name, Cacatua sanguinea, refers to the subtle pinkish-red feathering often found at the base of their crest and around their lores, a delicate splash of color amidst their predominantly white plumage. What truly sets them apart visually, however, is the prominent patch of bare, blue-grey skin that encircles their eyes, giving them that endearing, perpetually surprised expression.

Beyond their distinctive appearance, these cockatoos are renowned for their outgoing and highly social nature. They are incredibly intelligent, capable of learning tricks, mimicking sounds, and even developing an impressive vocabulary. This intelligence, combined with their natural curiosity, means they require significant mental stimulation to prevent boredom and potential behavioral issues. Unlike some other cockatoo species, they are generally less prone to severe feather plucking, though this can still occur if their social and mental needs aren’t met. Their lifespan can range from 30 to 50 years with proper care, making them a long-term commitment that demands thoughtful consideration.

Physical Characteristics and Natural Habitat

• Size: Typically measuring between 14 to 16 inches (35-40 cm) from head to tail, making them one of the smaller cockatoo species.
• Weight: Averaging around 15 to 25 ounces (425-700 grams).
• Plumage: Predominantly white, with subtle yellow wash on the underside of their wings and tail, and the characteristic pinkish-red lores and base of the crest.
• Distinguishing Feature: The prominent bare, blue-grey skin around the eyes, which can sometimes appear to “blush” when the bird is excited or stressed.
• Beak: A strong, bone-colored beak designed for cracking nuts and seeds.
• Natural Range: Widespread across mainland Australia, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions, and also found in parts of southern New Guinea. They are highly adaptable and often seen in agricultural areas and urban parks.

Personality and Temperament: Why Bare-Eyeds Make Incredible Companions

If you’re looking for a bird with personality that could fill a room, the Bare Eyed Cockatoo is an excellent contender. These birds are often described as “clowns” of the parrot world, known for their playful antics, boundless energy, and an almost insatiable desire for interaction. They thrive on attention and will actively seek out engagement from their human companions, often displaying acrobatic feats, head bobs, and even “dancing” to music. Their affectionate nature means they often bond deeply with their owners, becoming true members of the family.

However, this very sociability also means they are not a bird that can be left alone for long periods. A lonely Bare Eyed Cockatoo can quickly become a distressed one, leading to problem behaviors such as excessive screaming, destructive chewing, or even self-mutilation like feather plucking. They are highly intelligent, and this intellect demands constant stimulation. Think of them as a perpetual toddler with a powerful beak and the ability to fly; they need supervision, toys, training, and plenty of social interaction to remain well-adjusted.

The Bare-Eyed’s Vocalizations and Intelligence

• Vocalizations: While not as loud as some larger cockatoos, Bare Eyed Cockatoos are still capable of producing piercing screams, especially when startled, excited, or seeking attention. They also have a range of softer whistles, chirps, and can be good talkers, mimicking words and phrases.
• Intelligence: Their high intelligence means they can be easily trained using positive reinforcement. They enjoy learning new tricks, solving puzzles, and engaging in activities that challenge their minds. This makes them highly engaging pets, but also demanding ones.
• Affectionate Nature: They are renowned for their cuddliness and will often enjoy head scratches, preening, and close physical contact with their trusted human. This intense bond is one of the most rewarding aspects of owning a Bare Eyed Cockatoo.
• Potential Challenges: Like all cockatoos, they can develop behavioral issues if their needs aren’t met. These can include excessive screaming (especially if not taught to self-entertain), destructive chewing (a natural behavior that needs proper outlets), and jealousy or aggression towards other pets or family members if they feel their primary bond is threatened.

Essential Care for Your Bare-Eyed Cockatoo: Habitat, Diet, and Health

Providing the right environment and care is crucial for the long-term health and happiness of your Bare Eyed Cockatoo. This involves everything from their cage size and setup to their daily diet and regular veterinary check-ups. Remember, these are intelligent, active birds, and their environment must reflect their needs for exploration, play, and security.

Creating the Ideal Habitat

A spacious cage is not a luxury; it’s a necessity for a Bare Eyed Cockatoo. Even though they are smaller than other cockatoos, they are incredibly active and need ample room to climb, stretch their wings, and play. The cage should be the largest you can reasonably afford and accommodate.

• Cage Size: A minimum cage size of 3 feet x 3 feet x 4 feet (width x depth x height) is recommended for a single Bare Eyed Cockatoo. Larger is always better. Bar spacing should be no more than 1 inch to prevent escape or injury.
• Cage Material: Strong, non-toxic materials like stainless steel are ideal, as their powerful beaks can easily destroy weaker metals.
• Perches: Provide a variety of natural branch perches of different diameters (from ½ inch to 1 ½ inches) to exercise their feet and prevent pressure sores. Avoid dowel perches as the sole option.
• Toys: A constantly rotating selection of enrichment toys is vital. This includes chewing toys (like destructible wood, natural fibers), foraging toys, puzzle toys, and shreddable toys. Safety is key; ensure toys are bird-safe and don’t have small parts that can be ingested.
• Location: Place the cage in a busy part of your home where the bird can interact with the family, but away from drafts, direct sunlight, and loud noises. They also need a quiet, dark place to sleep, so a cage cover is recommended.

Nutritional Requirements

A balanced and varied diet is fundamental to the health of your Bare Eyed Cockatoo. Avoid a seed-only diet, which is deficient in many essential nutrients and can lead to serious health problems like fatty liver disease.

1. High-Quality Pellets: Should form the staple (approximately 60-70%) of their diet. Choose a reputable brand designed for cockatoos or medium parrots.
2. Fresh Fruits and Vegetables: Offer a wide variety daily. Examples include leafy greens (kale, spinach, romaine), broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, apples, berries, melon, and citrus fruits. Wash thoroughly before serving.
3. Healthy Grains and Legumes: Cooked brown rice, quinoa, whole-wheat pasta, and cooked beans or lentils can be offered in moderation.
4. Limited Seeds and Nuts: These should be offered sparingly as treats, as they are high in fat. Good options include sunflower seeds, safflower, almonds, walnuts, and pecans.
5. Fresh Water: Always provide clean, fresh water in a sturdy bowl that cannot be easily tipped over. Change it at least once daily, more often if soiled.
6. Calcium Source: Cuttlebone or mineral block can be provided.

Common Health Concerns and Preventative Care

Regular veterinary care with an avian vet is essential for early detection and prevention of health issues in your Bare Eyed Cockatoo. Annual check-ups are highly recommended.

• Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease (PBFD): A viral disease affecting feathers, beaks, and immune systems.
• Polyomavirus: Another viral disease that can cause sudden death, especially in young birds.
• Proventricular Dilatation Disease (PDD): A neurological disease affecting the digestive system.
• Chlamydiosis (Psittacosis): A bacterial infection transmissible to humans.
• Nutritional Deficiencies: Often linked to poor diet, leading to conditions like Vitamin A deficiency, which affects respiratory and skin health.
• Obesity: Common in birds on a high-fat, seed-only diet, leading to liver problems and other complications.
• Feather Plucking: Can be caused by medical issues, but often psychological due to stress, boredom, or lack of social interaction.

Preventative measures include: regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, a clean environment, plenty of mental and physical stimulation, and quarantine of new birds.

Training and Socialization: Building a Strong Bond with Your Bare-Eyed

The intelligence and social nature of the Bare Eyed Cockatoo make them excellent candidates for training and highly rewarding companions when properly socialized. Building a strong bond is not just about affection; it’s about establishing trust, understanding, and clear boundaries. Positive reinforcement is the cornerstone of successful training with these sensitive birds.

Key Training Techniques

Consistency and patience are vital when training your Bare Eyed Cockatoo. Aim for short, frequent training sessions (5-10 minutes) rather than long, infrequent ones.

• Step-Up Training: This is fundamental for safe handling. Teach your bird to step onto your hand or a perch on command. Use a treat as a reward when they comply.
• Target Training: Using a stick or your finger, teach your bird to touch the target for a reward. This can be used to guide them around the cage or to another perch without direct handling.
• Recall Training: Teaching your bird to fly or come to you on command is crucial for safety, especially if you plan on having them out of the cage for extended periods.
• Trick Training: Bare Eyed Cockatoos love to learn tricks! Waving, turning around, playing fetch with small items, or even “playing dead” can be taught. This provides excellent mental stimulation.
• Mimicry and Speech: Encourage talking by repeating words and phrases clearly and consistently. Reward any vocal attempts.

The Importance of Socialization

Early and consistent socialization is key to raising a well-adjusted Bare Eyed Cockatoo. They need to be exposed to various people, sounds, and environments from a young age to prevent fear and aggression.

• Daily Interaction: Dedicate at least 2-4 hours of direct, interactive time with your cockatoo daily. This doesn’t mean just being in the same room; it means actively playing, talking, training, and cuddling.
• Family Members: Ensure all household members interact with the bird regularly (under supervision), so the bird doesn’t bond exclusively with one person and become aggressive towards others.
• Environmental Enrichment: Provide plenty of opportunities for independent play through foraging toys, puzzle feeders, and destructible toys, so they don’t become solely reliant on human interaction for entertainment.
• Managing Nipping and Biting: If your cockatoo nips, avoid reacting with fear or yelling, as this can reinforce the behavior. Instead, firmly say “No” or “Ah-ah,” put the bird down, and ignore them for a few minutes. Redirect their chewing to appropriate toys.

Understanding Bare-Eyed Cockatoo Behavior: Decoding Their Quirks and Calls

Living with a Bare Eyed Cockatoo is a dynamic experience, largely due to their complex and expressive behaviors. Learning to “read” your bird’s body language and understanding their vocalizations is crucial for fostering a harmonious relationship and addressing potential issues before they escalate. These highly intelligent birds communicate constantly, and understanding their signals is key to their well-being.

Common Bare-Eyed Cockatoo Behaviors and What They Mean

• Crest Position:
  • Relaxed/Slightly Raised: The bird is curious, alert, or comfortable.
  • Fully Erect: Often indicates excitement, surprise, fear, or aggression. Pay attention to other body language cues.
  • Flattened: The bird might be feeling threatened, submissive, or preparing to bite.
• Eye Pinning: Rapid dilation and constriction of the pupils. This usually indicates excitement, curiosity, or concentration. In combination with an erect crest, it can signal aggression.
• Head Bobbing and Dancing: A sign of happiness, excitement, or playful behavior. Often accompanied by vocalizations.
• Wing Flapping: Can indicate exercise, excitement, stretching, or a desire to fly. If done excessively in the cage, it might signal boredom or a need for more space.
• Preening: Self-preening is normal grooming. Allopreening (preening a human’s hair or skin) is a sign of affection and bonding.
• Chewing and Destructive Behavior: Natural for cockatoos. Provide plenty of safe chewing toys. If excessive, it can signal boredom, stress, or a lack of appropriate outlets.
• Screaming: While Bare Eyed Cockatoos can be loud, excessive, non-stop screaming is usually a sign of distress, boredom, loneliness, or a lack of boundaries. Address the root cause.
• Hanging Upside Down: Often a sign of playfulness and contentment, especially when accompanied by happy chirps.

Addressing Problem Behaviors

Early intervention is best when dealing with unwanted behaviors. Remember that birds don’t act “out of spite”; there’s always an underlying reason.

• Excessive Screaming: Don’t reward screaming with attention (even negative attention). Instead, reward quiet behavior. Ensure they have enough toys, interaction, and foraging opportunities. Provide a safe, quiet space for independent play.
• Biting: Understand why the bird is biting (fear, possessiveness, hormonal changes, lack of boundaries). Avoid punishment, which can worsen fear. Use distraction and redirection. Ensure the bird has a “safe space” (like a play stand) where they are not bothered.
• Feather Plucking/Mutilation: This is a serious issue requiring immediate veterinary attention to rule out medical causes. If psychological, it often stems from severe boredom, stress, loneliness, or anxiety. Environmental enrichment, increased interaction, and sometimes behavioral therapy are needed.
• Aggression/Territoriality: Often seen around the cage or a favored person. Ensure the bird is properly socialized with all family members. Avoid reinforcing possessive behaviors. Training and consistent boundaries are crucial.

Are Bare-Eyed Cockatoos Right for You? Making an Informed Decision

Deciding to bring a Bare Eyed Cockatoo into your life is a significant commitment, one that can bring immense joy and companionship, but also substantial challenges. These birds are not merely “pets”; they are intelligent, highly emotional beings with complex needs that will profoundly impact your daily life for decades. Before making this lifelong commitment, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons honestly and assess your readiness.

The Commitment Required

Owning a Bare Eyed Cockatoo requires dedication in several key areas:

1. Time: Expect to spend 2-4 hours of direct, interactive time with your bird daily. This is non-negotiable for their emotional well-being.
2. Financial: Beyond the initial purchase price (which can range from $1,000-$2,500 USD from a reputable breeder or rescue), ongoing costs include a large cage, a varied diet, a constant supply of toys, and regular vet visits (which can be expensive for exotic animals). Expect hundreds to thousands of dollars annually.
3. Patience: Training, managing behaviors, and understanding your bird takes immense patience and consistency.
4. Noise Tolerance: While generally not as loud as Umbrella or Moluccan Cockatoos, they are still capable of very loud screams. You must be prepared for this and live in an environment where it won’t be a significant problem for neighbors.
5. Mess: Parrots are messy. Expect feathers, seed hulls, droppings, and chewed-up toys around their cage and play areas. Regular cleaning is a must.
6. Lifespan: With a lifespan of 30-50 years, your Bare Eyed Cockatoo could easily outlive you. Estate planning for your bird is a serious consideration.

Quick Comparison Table: Bare Eyed Cockatoo Considerations

Factor	Consideration for Bare Eyed Cockatoo
Size	Medium (14-16 inches), more manageable than larger cockatoos.
Temperament	Highly intelligent, affectionate, playful, prone to “clowning.”
Social Needs	Extremely high; requires significant daily interaction to prevent loneliness and behavioral issues.
Noise Level	Moderate to High; capable of loud screams, especially when attention-seeking or distressed.
Destructive Tendencies	High; needs constant supply of chew toys and supervision outside the cage.
Lifespan	30-50 years, requiring a lifelong commitment.
Training Potential	Excellent; eager to learn tricks and talk with positive reinforcement.
Suitability for Novices	Generally not recommended for first-time bird owners due to high demands.

Where to Acquire a Bare Eyed Cockatoo

If you’ve thoroughly researched and decided that a Bare Eyed Cockatoo is the right companion for you, consider these options:

• Reputable Breeders: Seek out breeders who prioritize the health and socialization of their birds. Ask for references, visit their facility if possible, and ensure the birds are weaned and healthy.
• Avian Rescues/Shelters: Many cockatoos, unfortunately, end up in rescues due to owners underestimating their needs. Adopting an adult bird can be incredibly rewarding, offering a second chance to a bird in need. Rescues often provide thorough background on the bird’s personality and history.
• Avoid Pet Stores: Unless it’s a specialty avian store with knowledgeable staff and proper husbandry, avoid purchasing from general pet stores.

Regardless of where you acquire your bird, ensure you receive health guarantees and proper documentation.

The Bare Eyed Cockatoo is a magnificent and endearing creature, capable of forming incredibly strong bonds with their human families. Their playful spirit, intelligence, and affectionate nature make them truly captivating companions. However, their complex needs demand a dedicated, informed, and patient owner. By understanding their unique traits, providing comprehensive care, and committing to their lifelong well-being, you can unlock the full potential of these extraordinary birds and enjoy decades of joy, laughter, and unwavering companionship with your feathered friend.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Bare Eyed Cockatoo unique compared to other cockatoo species?

The Bare Eyed Cockatoo is primarily distinguished by its prominent, featherless blue-grey patch of skin around the eyes, which gives it its name. They are also generally smaller than many other cockatoo species and are known for their particularly playful, clown-like personalities and intelligence.

What kind of diet should I provide for my Bare Eyed Cockatoo?

A balanced diet for a Bare Eyed Cockatoo should consist primarily of a high-quality, veterinarian-recommended pellet mix. This should be supplemented daily with a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and greens, along with occasional healthy seeds and nuts as treats.

How much social interaction and mental stimulation does a Bare Eyed Cockatoo require?

Bare Eyed Cockatoos are highly social and intelligent birds that thrive on extensive interaction with their human companions, requiring several hours of direct attention daily. Without sufficient mental stimulation and social engagement, they can easily become bored, leading to destructive behaviors or emotional distress.

What is the typical lifespan of a Bare Eyed Cockatoo?

With proper care, a Bare Eyed Cockatoo can live a remarkably long life, often ranging from 40 to 60 years or even more in captivity. This significant lifespan means owning a Bare Eyed Cockatoo is a long-term commitment, potentially lasting for several decades.

Are Bare Eyed Cockatoos good for first-time bird owners?

While charming, Bare Eyed Cockatoos are generally not recommended for first-time bird owners due to their complex needs, high intelligence, and strong demand for social interaction. They require significant time, patience, and understanding of parrot behavior to thrive.

How can I prevent common behavioral issues like screaming or feather plucking in my Bare Eyed Cockatoo?

Preventing behavioral issues in a Bare Eyed Cockatoo involves providing a rich environment with plenty of toys for mental stimulation, consistent training, and ample social interaction. Ensuring adequate sleep, a proper diet, and addressing any signs of boredom or stress early on are crucial for their overall well-being.