BIRD #38 OF 45

Palm Cockatoo

The Palm Cockatoo is one of Australia’s most remarkable parrots. With its enormous bill, shaggy crest and striking red cheek patch, it’s unlike any other cockatoo in the country.

In Australia, it’s found only in the tropical rainforests and woodlands of Cape York Peninsula.

  • HABITAT

    Tropical rainforest, woodland, savanna

  • CONSERVATION STATUS

    Least Concern (LC)

  • LOCATION

    QLD

  • HOW TO SPOT IT

    🖤 Large black cockatoo with a long, shaggy crest
    🔴 Bare red cheek patch that changes colour with emotion
    🪶 Massive dark bill, perfect for cracking hard nuts
    🌴 Usually seen alone or in pairs

  • DID YOU KNOW?

    Palm Cockatoos are one of the very few birds known to make and use tools. They break off sticks or seed pods and drum them against hollow tree trunks, creating loud beats that can be heard through the forest.