Goffin’s Cockatoo
Description
The Goffin’s Cockatoo (Cacatua goffiniana) also known as Tanimbar corella or Goffin's corella, is a species of cockatoo endemic to forests of Yamdena, Larat and Selaru, all islands in the Tanimbar Islands archipelago in Indonesia. The species has been introduced to the Kai Islands, Indonesia, Puerto Rico and Singapore. This species was only formally described in 2004, after it was discovered that the previous formal descriptions pertained to individuals of a different cockatoo species, the Ducorps' or Solomons cockatoo (Cacatua ducorpsii). Tanimbar corellas are the smallest of the white cockatoos. This species is Near Threatened due to deforestation and bird trade. The species breeds well in captivity and there is a large avicultural population.
Tanimbar corellas weigh, on average, about 250 g for females and 300 g for males. They are about 31 cm (12 in) from head to tail.
Like all members of the family Cacatuidae, the Tanimbar corella 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 color, but the coloration here is hidden by the white color of the more superficial (distal) areas of these feathers. The underside of its wing and tail feathers exhibit a yellowish tinge. The beak is pale grey and eye colour ranges from brown to black. Both sexes are similar. They are often confused with the little corella (bare-eyed cockatoo) due to their similar appearance.
The maximum recorded lifespan for a (captive) Tanimbar corella is 26 years – though this figure may be a significant under-representation, considering the long-lived nature of many other cockatoo species.
Scientific Name
Cacatua Goffiniana
Country Of Origin
Size
Life Expectancy
Noise Level
Moderate
Talk / Trick Ability
Good
Characteristics
Goffin’s cockatoos are quieter than many other cockatoo species, but they need plenty of attention to avoid screeching when bored. This very intelligent species often learns how to unlock cage doors; they are known to be escape artists. Goffin’s cockatoos are climbers and while they are not known to be exceptional talkers, they can learn to say quite a few words. They also enjoy music and love to dance.
Behavior / Health Concerns
Goffin’s cockatoos are playful, so they need a variety of toys. The can also help prevent boredom, and destructive behaviors like feather-picking. Although smaller than other cockatoo species, they are very active and need large pet bird cages so they have plenty of room to climb and play.
Expert Advice
“Hand-reared Goffin’s cockatoos make good pets, but [without proper socialization, they can be] restless, destructive and independent and do not do well in confinement. They can learn a few words and tricks.”
Gene Maranda, Avian Companions, (www.aviancompanions.com)