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GLOSSY BLACK COCKATOO

Species: Calyptorhynchus lathami

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DESCRIPTION

Glossy black cockatoos are one of Australia’s rarest and most remarkable birds, instantly recognizable by their glossy, dark plumage and distinctive red tail feathers (in males). These birds are highly specialized, feeding almost exclusively on the seeds of certain she-oak trees, which makes their survival closely tied to specific habitats. When a glossy black cockatoo chick finally peeks out from its tree hollow, it’s a rare and thrilling moment for the devoted parents—and a significant victory for the species as a whole. With only one egg laid every two years, each chick represents a crucial addition to the dwindling population. The young cockatoo quickly develops a curious, playful personality, clinging close to its parents as they teach it the art of cracking open tough cones to get to the precious seeds inside. Watching a glossy black cockatoo family grow is not only a joy but a poignant reminder of the resilience of these unique birds and the importance of preserving their specialized habitats to secure their future.

 

DIET

The diet of the glossy black cockatoo is one of the most specialized in the bird world. Unlike many other cockatoos, which have a varied diet, glossy black cockatoos feed almost exclusively on the seeds of certain she-oak trees, particularly black she-oak and drooping she-oak. These birds are highly selective, even choosing specific individual trees that produce seeds with the highest nutritional value. Using their strong, curved beaks, glossy black cockatoos spend hours extracting seeds from the tough, woody cones, a task that requires incredible patience and persistence. This dietary reliance on she-oaks makes the cockatoos highly vulnerable to habitat loss, as any reduction in the availability of these trees directly impacts their food supply and, ultimately, their survival. Protecting and restoring she-oak forests is therefore essential for ensuring the future of this unique and endangered bird.

 

ENDANGERMENT STATUS

Glossy black cockatoos are listed as vulnerable due to their highly specialized diet and dependence on specific habitats. They rely almost exclusively on she-oak trees for food, and these trees have been heavily impacted by land clearing, bushfires, and habitat fragmentation. Additionally, glossy black cockatoos are slow breeders, typically raising only one chick every two years, which limits population growth. These combined pressures make the species highly sensitive to environmental changes, leading to their vulnerable status and underscoring the need for habitat protection and restoration.

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OUR ANIMAL FAMILY
ANIMAL FACTS

GLOSSY BLACK COCKATOO

GROUP NAME

Clan

Native To

SIZE

46cm to 50cm

BABY NAME

Chick

Habitat

Glossy black cockatoos are found in specific habitats that support their unique dietary needs, primarily open woodlands and forests dominated by she-oak trees. These habitats are essential as they provide both food and nesting sites, typically in large, old eucalyptus trees where the cockatoos carve out hollows to raise their chicks. Due to their reliance on she-oaks, glossy black cockatoos are vulnerable to habitat loss from land clearing, bushfires, and urban development, making the preservation of these woodlands crucial for their survival.

Did You Know?

Glossy black cockatoos are in no rush to grow their family. They lay only one egg every two years, and both parents share the work of raising the chick, making each new addition to their population a truly special event!


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Glossy black cockatoos are in no rush to grow their family. They lay only one egg every two years, and both parents share the work of raising the chick, making each new addition to their population a truly special event!

Glossy black cockatoos are in no rush to grow their family. They lay only one egg every two years, and both parents share the work of raising the chick, making each new addition to their population a truly special event!

MEET OUR

ANIMAL FAMILY

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