Top 3 Tips To Consider Before Getting A Major Mitchell Cockatoo

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Major Mitchell Cockatoos are beautiful birds, but there is much to consider before bringing one into your home.

This article discusses the size of the cage you will need for your Major Mitchell Cockatoo, their diet, and how much exercise and stimulation they need.

Does Cage Size Matter?

Large birds, like Major Mitchell Cockatoos, or Major Mitchell’s as they are commonly known, are intelligent and active birds that require plenty of space to move around and fly. Keeping a large bird like a Major Mitchell in a small cage can significantly affect its physical and mental well-being. 

It’s not uncommon for them to develop behavioural problems such as aggression or loud screeching if they are kept in a small cage. It can also cause stress and frustration and lead to feather plucking.

A small cage can also limit their ability to exercise, leading to health issues such as muscle weakness and obesity. In addition, a small cage may not provide enough space for them to spread their wings or explore and play. 

If the cage is too small, it can lead to diet and nutritional issues. Birds like Major Mitchell’s need specific diets and nutrition to stay healthy. A small cage may not provide enough space for them to eat and drink comfortably, which can lead to malnutrition.

So, how do you determine the cage size you will need for a Major Mitchell?

First, you need to know…

• length of your Major Mitchell – average 35-40cms
• its wingspan – average 81cms

The cage size should be at least 1.5 – 2 times the bird’s wingspan. 

Working on the averages above…

• the length of the cage should be at least 162cms

The bird should be able to extend its wings inside the cage and flap them for exercise. The bigger the cage, the happier your bird will be.

Once you’ve worked out the cage size you need, next is to ensure your bird has plenty of toys and stimulation to keep them active.

Like many other parrot species, Major Mitchells are highly intelligent and social animals that require plenty of physical and mental stimulation to maintain their psychological well-being. Toys and other forms of stimulation help keep them mentally and physically active, preventing boredom and developing negative behaviours such as feather plucking and excessive screeching.

Toys also provide opportunities for the birds to engage in natural behaviours such as foraging, chewing and problem-solving. The variety of toys and perches is important because it can keep the birds mentally stimulated and prevent boredom.

A Guide to a Balanced Diet 

In the wild, Major Mitchell Cockatoos mainly eat seeds, grasses, and native fruits. It’s important to replicate this variety of foods in captivity.

When caring for a Major Mitchell Cockatoo in captivity, it’s important to provide a well-balanced diet that includes fresh fruits and vegetables. While bird pellets can provide essential vitamins, minerals, and calcium, but they should only make up 40% of their diet and fruits around 10%. Avoid feeding a diet high in seeds, as they can lead to feather plucking and malnutrition. 

Our flock loves…

• Mango, pear, apple (no core), blueberries, strawberries, melon, raspberries, and kiwi fruit
• Carrot, beetroot, corn, spinach, and kale
• Nuts and seeds as a special treat

What not to feed them…

• Peanuts – can be a choking hazard as some birds can swallow them whole
• Avocado, onions, garlic, and chocolate
• Definitely no junk food!

We recommend that you consult your avian vet to determine the best diet for your bird.

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Exercise and Stimulation

Please don’t get a Major Mitchell, or any bird for that matter, and keep it in a cage with no exercise, time out, or stimulation. 

Major Mitchell’s are flock animals. They live in large groups in the wild and constantly interact with other birds. They need social interaction and stimulation in captivity to feel mentally and emotionally balanced. 

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Birds require daily socialisation and interaction. If you don’t have them out of their cage regularly, you will notice a change in their behaviour. They will become quite depressed and destructive.

Indoors they should have a safe flight area. You can do this by closing all doors and windows and turning off any fires or fans.

If you have other pets, secure them safely in another part of the house.

Never leave your bird unattended. They should be supervised at all times.

If your bird has its wings clipped or is not a good flyer, set up an indoor play area with toys and wooden perches to sit on.  It’s a great way to develop your bond with your bird and, most of all… have some fun!

It’s also important to remember that owning a cockatoo is a big responsibility. They have a lifespan of up to 80 years, and it’s essential to ensure that you have the time, money, and commitment to take care of them for the long term.

If you have any questions or comments, I’d love to hear from you. Kindly leave a comment in the box below.

Until next time, keep chirping.