Caring for Major Major Mitchell Cockatoo

While it can be tempting to rush out and buy one of these beautiful birds, Major Mitchell’s cockatoos need specialized care and environments that not all bird owners can accommodate. It is best if they live in a walk-in cage (5 feet high) that is at least 4 feet long. This allows the large bird plenty of room to move.

These birds are moderately strong chewers and can break welds on poorly constructed cages. Many can open cage latches, so locks or escape-proof latches may be necessary.

Routine bathing or showering is vital to maintaining good plumage and skin. Birds can be misted and allowed to dry in a warm room or in the sun. Do not clip the wing feathers excessively. Clip only the primary flight feathers and only enough so the bird will glide to the floor.

Temperament of Major Mitchell Cockatoos

It’s important to note that this species of bird requires a lot of care and attention. Since they bond to their owners for life, you need to make sure you’re capable of taking care of this temperamental bird before getting one.

While they can be temperamental, this species is also known to be loving, funny, energetic, and cuddly. However, since they do bond for life, they tend to get upset if their bonded human leaves them. So, for example, if you go away on a short trip and come back, your cockatoo may be mad and not have anything to do with you for a few days.

Feeding Major Mitchell Cockatoos

A commercial cockatoo seed or pellet based mix is a good recommendation for a beginner diet base. You should add a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables like oranges, apples, bananas, cabbage, kale, and carrots. This will be a vitamin supplement. Occasional cooked rice, corn or chicken is also a good addition.

Speech and Vocalizations

Cockatoos, in general, can be loud and constant talkers. Major Mitchell’s species is notably quieter and more susceptible to natural calls. They can be taught to pronounce a few simple words and to imitate whistles or alarms. Their natural cries are not overly loud; they produce exotic chirps and high-pitched alarm calls. As a result, they are unlikely to be suited to living in apartments or in tight quarters with nearby neighbors. major mitchells cockatoo for sale

Exercise

Just like its fellow members of the parrot family, Major Mitchell’s cockatoos are active birds that need plenty of exercise to maintain their physical condition. They need a minimum of three to four hours outside of the cage every day to stretch their wings.

Provide your Major Mitchell’s cockatoo with safe chew toys to exercise their beaks. These birds chew wood to make nests in the wild and will display that same behavior in captivity if they get bored or restless.