Birds
Moluccan Cockatoo
Cacatua moluccensis · also called salmon-crested cockatoo
Raising a spectacular salmon-pink crest at the first sign of a disturbance, a moluccan cockatoo flashes one of the most dramatic displays in the entire parrot family, a bird restricted to a single small cluster of Indonesian islands and nowhere else on Earth.
Overview
The moluccan cockatoo, Cacatua moluccensis, is a large, striking cockatoo native to rainforest habitat restricted to a small group of islands within the Moluccas of Indonesia. Its dramatic salmon-pink crest, considerable size among white cockatoo species, and severely narrow natural island range make it one of the most visually memorable yet conservation-critical parrots found anywhere in Indonesia.
A crest built to be seen
Few cockatoo displays are as immediately striking as the moluccan cockatoo’s raised salmon-pink crest, a dramatic burst of colour against otherwise mostly white plumage that instantly signals excitement, alarm, or an interest in another bird.
Status
Vulnerable, having suffered significant historical declines from trapping and ongoing habitat loss across its narrow island range within the Moluccas.
Moluccan Cockatoo: common questions
Why does the moluccan cockatoo raise its crest?
This species raises a large, spectacular salmon-pink crest of feathers when excited, alarmed, or displaying, a dramatic visual signal used to communicate mood and intention to other cockatoos as well as to potential threats.
Where does the moluccan cockatoo live in the wild?
This species is restricted to a small group of islands within the Moluccas of Indonesia, an unusually narrow natural range for such a large and well-known cockatoo species compared with more widely distributed relatives.
Why is the moluccan cockatoo considered Vulnerable?
This species has suffered significant population declines from historical trapping for the pet trade combined with ongoing loss of the rainforest habitat it depends on across its already narrow island range, leaving it classified as Vulnerable.
How big is the moluccan cockatoo?
This species is one of the largest white cockatoo species, with a mostly white body tinged salmon-pink, particularly beneath the wings and tail, making it one of the more physically imposing members of the cockatoo family.