Why is a cockatoo so needy?

[RexGilangPN]

I really want to have a cockatoo so bad. I've had some experience with smaller birds, but I heard cockatoo is needy. What is some thing that make them so needy?

 

[SilverSage]

It's in their nature. Cockatoos are more social even than human beings as a rule.


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[plumsmum2005]

Cockatoos choose who they want to be with and then if you are the chosen one they do not like sharing as a rule so it can make human to human relationships awkward. Have read about people having to sit with an appliance between them as the only way to pacify the bird. Even my RB2 is not happy with any shows of affection between us even though hubby is his daft playmate. Please go see and experience the whole 'too thing as it really would not be fair on the bird if you made a mistake. To decide to own a 'too and devote many years to it involves a clear head and not rose tinted spectacles. Please be absolutely sure that you have every box ticked before committing. How old are you btw?

 

[SilverSage]

I agree.

Many years ago my ultimate "dream bird" Was a Lesser Sulfur Crested Cockatoo. However spending some time with a few Cockatoos convinced me in a hurry that the bird and I and my entire family would only suffer. They are amazing birds but a bad MATCH for myself and my family. I adore spending time with the toos that own my friends, but no matter how stunning and adorable they are I won't force one to live with me; that would be cruel and destructive to both of us.


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[Scott]

Life with a cockatoo(s) is definitely an acquired habit. For you *and* the bird(s)! They require much time and attention. Unlike some other species, any shortfall will be outwardly directed in the form of incessant screaming and destruction, and often inward by feather plucking.

Goffins are my favorite cockatoo. I love all my birds, but could have been just as happy with this singular species. They are a wonderful mix of clown, cuddle, size, and sociability.

If you are remotely interested, it is vital to spend much time before committing. Either volunteer at a rescue, or make multiple trips to stores/breeders with the targeted species. Spend much time on this and other forums researching their attributes, needs, and *demands*. Unless you can spend copious time with your bird, please consider a different variety.

 

[SilverSage]

Here are some numbers for you:

Cockatoos have essentially the same lifespan as humans. They can live 70+ years with the right care.

The average amount of time a cockatoo spends in a home is 2.5 years. Can you imagine? What would make that happen? That's just how incredibly difficult it is to properly meet their needs at a level that allows you to remain willing to live with them.

I love them so much, I'm not AT ALL saying they are bad; just that the VAST MAJORITY who buy one have no idea what they are getting into and don't stick it out.


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[plumsmum2005]

Here are some numbers for you:

Cockatoos have essentially the same lifespan as humans. They can live 70+ years with the right care.

The average amount of time a cockatoo spends in a home is 2.5 years. Can you imagine? What would make that happen? That's just how incredibly difficult it is to properly meet their needs at a level that allows you to remain willing to live with them.

I love them so much, I'm not AT ALL saying they are bad; just that the VAST MAJORITY who buy one have no idea what they are getting into and don't stick it out.
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Exactly! How would any of us feel if say during our childhood we had been passed around every 2.5 years, screwed up or what? Definitely come out the other side with some issues!

I did not fully understand what I was getting into with my RB2 but thank goodness have been able to adapt and alter my life. Dread to think if I was younger how that would have worked out.