Hobbies And Interests
Pairing
Cockatoos are brought up in large flocks, where they display a high degree of socialization. Once they have fledged or reached a mature state, they pair up with a bird of the opposite sex. Females do not start breeding until they are 3 to 4 years old, and males can be even older before they pair up. Cockatoos are monogamous and sometimes form pairs lasting several breeding seasons.
Nests
Cockatoos are cavity nesters and build their homes in holes in trees formed by decay. These hollows can sometimes be in short supply and there can be much competition for them, so males often take an aggressive approach to obtain and keep nests. Once cockatoos have found a suitable hollow, they line it with sticks, branches and leaves.
Breeding in captivity will require a nesting box or a round, hollowed-out tree trunk. Line it with wood shavings or shredded paper and place it high in the aviary.
Eggs
Cockatoos lay clutches ranging from just one egg in some species to eight eggs or more. The eggs are oval and white and about 2 inches in diameter. Up to 20 percent of the eggs might be infertile. It is usually the female who incubates the eggs while the male keeps her supplied with food, although in some species the male and female share duties. Cockatoo eggs hatch anywhere between 20 to 30 days after laying.
Young
The young are born with a soft down or naked in some species. They are blind and will not open their eyes for a couple of weeks. The hatchlings need 60 to 100 days to become plumed, and during this time hey start to explore their surroundings. However, growth rates of plumage and weight depend on weather and food supply. After they are fully plumed they will still need nurturing for three to four more weeks before becoming fully fledged.