Calyptorhynchus baudinii .......................................................... By Gideon Scheepers

 

Description

These stunning birds have a generally brownish-black plumage. All the feathers are scalloped with white edges. They have off-white ear-coverts. The central tail feathers are brownish-black, with white panes. The iris is dark brown and the periophthalmic ring is flesh coloured. The feet are greyish-brown and the bill is dark grey to brown. The female is similar to the male, but the ear-coverts are a brighter .Her bill is horn-coloured and the periophthalmic ring is dark grey. The young look like the female, but males have duller ear-coverts and greyish tinge to the bill. They grow to 58cm - 67 cm.

Range and Habitat

There are 2 sub-species of White-tailed Black Cockatoo, namely), Calyptorhynchus baudinii (White-tailed Cockatoo) and the Calyptorhynchus latirostris (Carnaby's White-tailed Cockatoo). They are found in Marri and Karri forests in south-western Western Australia. They inhabit mostly the tall Eucalyptus forests and woodlands, especially Karri and Marri forsets. They are seen in family groups and small flocks outside breeding season. And will frequent suburban parks and golf coarses

 

Housing in Aviculture

They must be given a large aviary of around 8 x 3 x 2 m, made of metal. They can be supplied with a barrel, metal drum or tree stump to breed in.

 

 

 

 

Breeding in Aviculture

They seldom breed in Aviculture, and are also rare outside of Australia. They need large aviaries and a large barrel, tree stump or metal drum for breeding. Hens will usually lay 1 to 2 eggs and incubate them for 28 - 30 days, only one chick will be reared so it is advisable to pull the second chick when it hatches. They should be provided with plenty of animal protein and greenfood during the rearing period. The young fledge after 70 days. But remain with the parents for another 60 days.

 

Mutations

I am not aware of any. If you know of more please let me know.