What you need to know before getting a Major Mitchell Cockatoo

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Getting a Major Mitchell Cockatoo is a big commitment, and there’s much to consider. This two-part series looks at what you need to know before getting a Major Mitchell Cockatoo.

This article discusses how long Major Mitchell’s live, their temperament, and behaviour.

But first, let’s find out more about Major Mitchell Cockatoos.

Major Mitchell Cockatoos, or Major Mitchell’s, are native to Australia and considered one of the most beautiful cockatoos.

They are often called Pink Cockatoos due to their soft pink and white feathers. Their underwings are a striking orange-pink colour, and their crest has broad bands of red and yellow when raised. Below is a photo of Luna showing off her stunning feathers and crest. She’s affectionately known as the ‘Pink Drama Queen’.

If you see their crests raised, it can mean they feel threatened or are on alert. But it’s also a way Major Mitchell’s communicates with other flock members.

In the wild, they are mainly found in arid and semi-arid regions of Australia. You’ll see them in flocks with other Major Mitchell’s, but they are not generally in large gatherings. Quite often, you’ll see them with flocks of Galahs or Corellas.

Major Mitchell’s need tree hollows for nesting, and you’ll find them at waterholes at dawn and dusk.

In the wild, they mainly eat native fruits, seeds, and grasses and spend most of their day on the ground or in trees foraging for food.

There are a lot of theories on how to tell the sex of a Major Mitchell, but the only accurate way is by a DNA test.

There is also no way to determine the age of an adult Major Mitchell not born in captivity.

Major Mitchell’s are monogamous and mate for life, and nest in pairs. In captivity, they normally bond with one person and can become quite depressed if you go away on holiday or leave them alone for long periods. Don’t be surprised if they ignore you when you return. This is quite common; it might take a few days before they ‘forgive you’.

They can also become very protective and jealous of their mate. When they bond with you, they can be quite aggressive if you pay someone else attention or if a person gets too close to you. The best way to avoid this is to socialise your bird with other people, and when you do, make sure you reward them with lots of positive reinforcement. It can be a verbal command, a special treat, or playing their favourite game. Most of all, have some fun!

If you see a Major Mitchell in the wild, get the ‘pom poms’ out – they are rare and threatened due to habitat loss.

Before you get a Major Mitchell, you also need to be aware of how long they live.

How long does a Major Mitchell live?

Major Mitchell’s lifespan is between 40 and 60 years. But they can live longer in captivity.

The oldest Major Mitchell on record was Cookie, who lived to 82 years. He was a male Major Mitchell at Brookfield Zoo, near Chicago in the US.

Getting a Major Mitchell is a lifelong commitment; you need to be aware they might outlive you.

If you get a Major Mitchell, make sure you put in place arrangements to care for your bird long after you’re gone. It will be your greatest act of kindness.

Christmas is fast approaching, and why not let Luna help you be super organised and schedule your Christmas eCards to be sent before the silly season starts? You can send your eCard from anywhere. It’s that easy!

Let’s chirp about temperament and behaviour

Major Mitchell’s are beautiful birds but can be high-maintenance and demanding. They can be destructive if left on their own for long periods. A neglected Major Mitchell can be prone to screaming and plucking their feathers.

To keep them occupied, make sure you give them plenty of foraging and enrichment activities that involve chewing, shredding, and playing.

Emotionally, Major Mitchell’s are sensitive birds, and although they can talk, they are not prolific talkers. They are generally not affectionate and can be quite aloof.

Major Mitchell’s do make excellent pets as long as you are prepared to invest the time and energy to build a strong bond and keep their minds active and stimulated.

If you don’t have a lot of time, I recommend you look at getting another bird.

Number 1 Tip

Make sure you do your research and write down the pros and cons before getting a Major Mitchell. It will help with your decision-making and save you a lot of money and heartache.

If you want to know more about Major Mitchell’s, make sure you read our next blog. If you have any questions or comments, I’d love to hear from you. Please pop a comment in the box below.

Until next time, keep chirping.

Major Mitchell Cockatoos have big personalities, and Luna is no exception. Make sure you watch to the end.