🦜 Citron‑crested Cockatoo:

The Citron‑crested Cockatoo (Cacatua sulphurea citrinocristata) is one of the most striking and charismatic members of the cockatoo family. Endemic to the Indonesian island of Sumba, this parrot is instantly recognizable for its warm, sunset‑orange crest and expressive personality. A long, richly detailed description follows.

🌅 Overall Appearance

The Citron‑crested Cockatoo is a medium‑sized cockatoo, typically measuring 33–35 cm in length. Its body is covered in soft, powdery white plumage that gives it a velvety appearance. The feathers have a faint buttery tint in certain lighting, especially around the cheeks and underwings.

Crest: A tall, brilliant orange‑citrus crest that fans upward in a semicircle when the bird is excited, curious, or communicating. When relaxed, the crest lies smoothly against the head.

• Face & Beak: A rounded face with expressive dark eyes and a strong, charcoal‑gray beak capable of cracking nuts and manipulating objects with precision.

• Cheeks: Subtle peach or apricot shading on the ear coverts, giving the face a warm glow.

• Feet: Zygodactyl feet (two toes forward, two back) in a dark slate color, ideal for climbing and grasping.

• Tail & Wings: Short, rounded tail feathers and broad wings with pale yellow wash on the underside, visible in flight.

🌿 Behavior & Personality

Citron‑crested Cockatoos are known for their intelligence, emotional depth, and social nature. They form strong bonds with flock members—whether birds or humans—and thrive on interaction.

Behavioral Traits

• Highly expressive: They use crest movements, body posture, and vocalizations to communicate mood.

• Playful: Enjoy toys, puzzles, and activities that challenge their problem‑solving abilities.

• Affectionate: Often seek physical closeness and attention from trusted companions.

• Vocal: Not as loud as some larger cockatoos, but capable of sharp calls, soft chatter, and mimicry.

🌏 Habitat & Ecology

In the wild, this cockatoo inhabits dry forests, monsoon woodlands, and savanna‑like environments on Sumba. It nests in tree cavities and feeds on:

• Seeds

• Nuts

• Fruits

• Blossoms

• Occasional insects

Its natural range is extremely limited, making it one of the rarest cockatoos on Earth.

⚠️ Conservation Status

The Citron‑crested Cockatoo is critically endangered due to:

• Habitat loss

• Illegal trapping for the pet trade

• Low reproductive rates

Conservation programs focus on habitat protection, captive breeding, and anti‑poaching efforts.

🧡 Overall Impression

The Citron‑crested Cockatoo is a bird of striking beauty and vibrant personality, combining elegance with a playful, emotionally rich nature. Its glowing orange crest and gentle demeanor make it unforgettable, while its endangered status adds urgency to its protection.