The Major Mitchell’s or Leadbeater’s Cockatoo is often kept as a pet bird, but; unfortunately, it is one of the less suitable and more expensive pet cockatoo’s that can be chosen as a pet.
They are a joy when they are young and hand-raised; but, they often become aggressive as they mature, and many end up as only suitable for an aviary. If a Major Mitchell’s is to be kept as a pet, it will need some firm handling to stop it from becoming dominant as it matures. It is also a destructive chewer, and has a very loud “shout” at times.
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This gorgeous bird with its Native American Headdress-like crest is small; only weighing between 300 and 400 grams and is about 14 inches long. They are indigenous to Australia and are considered “vulnerable”, in the wild, under the Endangered Species Act; because they do not acclimate well with humans who move into their home territories.
These cockatoos have a bad reputation when it comes to intra-species aggression (males attacking females). Each bird should have a Large Cage that measures about 24″W X 30″L X 30″H, with three feeding stations (water, pellets & fruit-veggies). They can be strong and active chewers so Manzanita perches are recommended.
They should have several toys including some that they can chew. Their daily diet should consist of: A bowl of soft food (fresh fruits, vegetables and a cooked bean mix); a bowl of dry food that is 1/2 seed mix and 1/2 pellets; and, of course, fresh water. During the breeding season, supply sprouted seeds whether you have a single bird or breeding pair.
These awesome little fellows do not reach sexual maturity until they are three to four years old. These Cockatoos have been known to breed for up to 37 years! Their life span can range between 40 and 100 years, so PLEASE put much thought and planning into who will care for your friend after you are departed
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