Goffin's Cockatoo
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| Cacatua goffiniana (Finsch, 1863) |
The Goffin's Cockatoo, Cacatua goffiniana also known as Tanimbar Cockatoo is a species of cockatoo native and endemic to forests of Banda Sea islands in Indonesia. They weigh, on average, about 350 grams and are about 31 centimeters from head to tail. The Goffin's Cockatoos are the smallest of all Cacatuinae. At first sight it appears to be a white cockatoo with some salmon or pink face feathers, and a pale grey beak. Both sexes are similar.
Like all members of the Cacatuidae, the Goffin's Cockatoo is crested, meaning it has a collection of feathers on its head that it can raise or lower. Its body is mainly covered with white feathers, with salmon or pink colored feathers between the beak and eyes. The deeper (proximal) parts of the crest feathers and neck feathers are also a salmon colour, but the coloration here is hidden by the white colour of the more superficial (distal) areas of these feathers. The underside of its wing and tail feathers exhibit a yellowish tinge. The eyes range from brown to black. They are often confused for the Little Corella due to their similar appearance.
Due to ongoing habitat loss, limited range and illegal hunting, the Goffin's Cockatoo is evaluated as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. It is listed on Appendix I of CITES.
[edit] Gallery
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[edit] References
- BirdLife International (2004). Cacatua goffiniana. 2006 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. IUCN 2006. Retrieved on 5 November 2006. Database entry includes a brief justification of why this species is near threatened
[edit] External links
Goffin's Cockatoo Veterinary & Aquatic Services Department, Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc.
Cacatua goffini
The Goffin's Cockatoo can be a charming, playful and affectionate companion. It is the smallest of the cockatoos, which can be a plus for people who may not have adequate space for one of the larger cockatoos.
The Goffin has a shorter crest on the head than other cockatoos; the crest stands up when they are frightened or get excited during play. Goffins love people and like to cuddle, although they are usually less dependent than other cockatoos. They are very active, and need extended periods of time outside of the cage as well as a variety of toys to prevent stress that could lead to feather-picking and destructive behavior. Examples of good toys include soft wood toys, tree branches and rope toys for chewing, braided or knotted toys for undoing, bells and noisemaker toys, and brightly-colored acrylic toys.
Like other cockatoos, Goffins can be loud screechers, especially if they do not receive adequate attention or have things to keep them busy. Although they are not known for their talking ability, some Goffins can be taught to say quite a few words. Most Goffins respond to music and love to dance. They are very bright, love to play, and may quickly learn to open the cage door. This bird is small in size, but big in personality! If you are able to provide the time and stimulating environment they need, a Goffin's Cockatoo can be a delightful companion for years to come.
Quick Stats: Goffin's Cockatoo Family: Cacatuidae Origin: Indonesia (Tanimbar Islands) Size: 23-30 cm (9-12 inches), 300-400 grams Coloration: White, with salmon-pink highlights in front of the eyes and on the breast. The underside of the flight feathers and the tail have a yellow tint, as do the ear coverts. Diet: 65-80% high-quality commercial diet (pellets, crumbles or nuggets). The rest of the diet should consist of 15-30% vegetables and 5% fresh fruits. See Basic Nutrition for Psittacines (Parrot Family). Cage Size: 2' L x 3' W minimum Grooming: Trim flight feathers, beak, and nails as needed Compatibility/Disposition: Active, inquisitive, playful, affectionate; love human attention, but usually not as demanding as other cockatoos Vocalization: Some do a lot of screeching, especially if bored, so provide adequate attention, toys, and time outside of the cage. Talking ability is variable. Playfulness: Usually love to play; like music and love to dance; like to climb; need considerable mental and physical exercise, including time outside of the cage Life Span: 40+ years with good care; probably much longer in the wild Age at Maturity: 2-3 years Nesting Sites in the Wild: Tree hollows Sexing: Adult females have a reddish-brown iris, males have a dark brown or black iris Special: Need large variety of toys and a good deal of attention to prevent feather-picking, excessive screaming, or destructive behavior. Very intelligent; can be escape artists.
