Species Profile
Philippine Cockatoo
Cacatua haematuropygia
Quick Facts
Conservation
CRCritically EndangeredAlso known as: Red-vented Cockatoo, Kalangay
Think you've spotted a Philippine Cockatoo?
Upload a photo and our AI will confirm it instantly
Confirm with a PhotoGallery
Appearance
The Philippine Cockatoo is a striking medium-sized parrot with predominantly white plumage.
Its most distinctive feature is the bright red undertail coverts, contrasting sharply with its white body. The beak is grey and hooked, typical of parrots.
Both males and females share the same appearance, with no significant sexual dimorphism. Juveniles resemble adults but may have slightly paler red undertail coverts.
Identification & Characteristics
Colors
- Primary
- White
- Secondary
- Red
- Beak
- Grey
- Legs
- Grey
Markings
Red undertail and vent area, yellowish ear coverts
Tail: White with broad red terminal band
Attributes
Understanding Attributes
Rated 0–100 based on research and observation. A score of 50 is average across all bird species. These attributes are relative and don't necessarily indicate superiority.
Habitat & Distribution
Endemic to the Philippines, this cockatoo inhabits lowland forests, mangroves, and nearby cultivated areas. It was once widespread across the archipelago but is now restricted to a few islands, including Palawan, Rasa, and parts of Mindanao.
The species shows a preference for coastal and riverine forests, often nesting in tall trees near water bodies. Their distribution has significantly contracted due to habitat loss and hunting pressures.
Distribution
Diet
Philippine Cockatoos are primarily herbivorous, feeding on a variety of seeds, nuts, fruits, and flowers. They have a particular fondness for the fruits of the mangrove palm and cultivated corn. Their strong beaks allow them to crack open hard nuts and seeds with ease.
Behaviour
Philippine Cockatoos are highly social birds, often seen in pairs or small flocks. They are known for their agile flight, with rapid wing beats interspersed with glides.
These cockatoos are quite vocal, especially when in groups, and can be quite playful, often seen hanging upside down from branches.
Calls & Sounds
The Philippine Cockatoo has a range of vocalisations, including loud, harsh screeches and softer, more melodious notes. Their calls often sound like 'krreek-krreek' or 'ka-ka-ka'. In flight, they frequently emit short, sharp calls. During courtship, pairs engage in softer, more varied vocalisations.
Nesting & Breeding
Breeding typically occurs between January and July. Philippine Cockatoos are monogamous and often mate for life. They nest in cavities of large trees, preferring those near water bodies.
Females usually lay 2-3 white eggs in a nest lined with wood chips. Both parents take turns incubating the eggs for about 28 days.
Chicks fledge after approximately 10-12 weeks but may remain dependent on their parents for several more months. The long period of parental care contributes to their low reproductive rate.
Conservation
The Philippine Cockatoo is critically endangered due to habitat loss and illegal trapping for the pet trade.
Conservation efforts focus on habitat protection, community education, and captive breeding programs. The Katala Foundation leads significant work to protect this species in its native range.
Population
Estimated: 430 - 750 mature individuals[3]
Trend: Decreasing[2]
Population has decreased significantly due to habitat loss and capture for pet trade
Elevation
Up to 150 meters
Additional Details
- Egg size:
- Approximately 2.6cm x 3.7cm
- Predators:
- Natural predators include large birds of prey such as eagles and hawk-eagles. Monitor lizards and snakes may prey on eggs and nestlings.
- Alarm calls:
- Loud, piercing squawk
- Breeding age:
- 4-5
- Maturity age:
- 3-4
- Feeding times:
- Early morning and late afternoon
- Major threats:
- Habitat loss, illegal pet trade, hunting
- Parental care:
- Both parents incubate eggs and feed chicks
- Primary calls:
- Loud, raucous calls
- Social habits:
- Form pairs or small groups, can be seen in larger flocks outside of breeding season
- Egg appearance:
- White, round
- Feeding habits:
- Forages in trees and sometimes on ground
- Breeding season:
- April to July
- Diet variations:
- Diet varies with seasonal availability
- Fledging period:
- Approximately 9-10 weeks
- Average lifespan:
- 17.3
- Call description:
- Series of loud, high-pitched screeches and squawks
- Daily activities:
- Most active in mornings and late afternoons, foraging and socializing
- Nesting location:
- Tree cavities
- Number of broods:
- One
- Incubation period:
- Around 28 days
- Nest construction:
- Simple nest in hollow tree or palm stump
- Migration patterns:
- Limited to local movements
- Migratory patterns:
- Mostly sedentary with some local movements
- Age related changes:
- Older birds may show wear on beak and feathers
- Prey capture method:
- Uses beak to manipulate and break open food items
- Conservation efforts:
- Conservation programs in place, including habitat protection and captive breeding
- Territorial behavior:
- Defends nesting sites aggressively
- Reproductive behavior:
- Monogamous, often returning to same nesting site each year
- Special dietary needs:
- Requires a varied diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables
- Clutch characteristics:
- 1-3 eggs, typically two
- Interaction with other species:
- Generally peaceful but can be aggressive when defending nest
Birdwatching Tips
- Look for white parrots with red undertail feathers in lowland forests and mangroves
- Listen for their distinctive loud, harsh calls, especially at dawn and dusk
- Observe fruiting or flowering trees where they often feed
- Be patient and quiet, as these birds can be shy due to hunting pressure
Did You Know?
- Philippine Cockatoos can mimic human speech and other sounds in captivity.
- They play a crucial role in forest regeneration by dispersing seeds.
- These cockatoos are excellent climbers, using their beaks as a third limb.
Community Photos
Be the first to share a photo of the Philippine Cockatoo
Upload a PhotoIdentify Any Bird Instantly
- Upload a photo from your phone or camera
- Get an instant AI identification
- Ask follow-up questions about the bird
Monthly Birds in Your Area
- Personalised for your location
- Seasonal tips and garden advice
- Updated every month with new species