Citron-Crested Cockatoo: Bird Characteristics and Care

The citron cockatoo is a smaller, quieter, and more subdued variety of the sulphur-crested cockatoo. As a subspecies of the lesser sulphur-crested cockatoo, its distinctive orange crest sets it apart from the yellow plumes of other subspecies. Its amiable personality makes it a popular choice for owners who want a pet bird needing companionship and attention.

Origin and History

The citron cockatoo is native to Indonesia's Lesser Sunda Islands and Sumba, also known as the Sumba cockatoo. It prefers tropical forests, particularly the forest edges.

Officially classified as an endangered species, citron cockatoos are critically endangered throughout their native range due to habitat loss and illegal trapping for the pet trade.

Temperament

Citron cockatoos are quieter than most cockatoo species, yet they have big personalities and enjoy playing and interacting with their owners. They are more introverted than other varieties and may require some time to acclimate to new surroundings.

Once comfortable, the citron cockatoo is curious, affectionate, and prefers to be by your side frequently. This species is recommended for owners with ample free time to spend with their pet. In general, cockatoos need more human attention than other parrot types, and the citron cockatoo exemplifies this trait.

In general, cockatoos are intelligent birds capable of learning to speak and perform tricks like dancing, waving, and fetching.

Speech and Vocalizations

Birds that become talkers are most vocal in the morning. Citron cockatoos are less adept at vocal imitation than other members of the parrot family typically learning no more than 15 words or phrases. Although generally quiet by parrot standards, they can produce loud growls that may quickly escalate to high-pitched shrieks. Citron cockatoos are unsuitable for apartment or condominium residents, as their potential screams can disturb neighbors.

Citron-Crested Cockatoo Colors and Markings

Citron cockatoos are predominantly white, with pale orange cheek patches, pale yellow undersides on their wings and tail feathers, and a bright orange crest distinguishing them from other sulfur-crested subspecies with yellow crests. They have dark gray feet and grayish-black beaks.

Males and females look alike, but males have black eyes, while females have brown eyes. This difference becomes noticeable only in adults, who mature between 3 to 5 years of age.

Caring for a Citron-Crested Cockatoo

Like all cockatoos, citron cockatoos are social birds requiring significant human interaction to stay emotionally healthy. Citrons feeling neglected may resort to screaming and destructive behaviors. If interaction is limited, some owners report that their birds enjoy having a television or radio playing; they are especially fond of music.

Although citrons are among the smaller cockatoo species, they still require ample living space. The minimum cage dimensions for a citron cockatoo are 4 feet in length, 4 feet in width, and at least 4 feet in height. Larger spaces are preferred, with an aviary setting being ideal.

Common Health Problems

The citron-crested cockatoo is susceptible to psittacosis, a disease caused by the bacteria Chlamydia psittici. Symptoms include lethargy, eye discharge, and respiratory issues, and it is treatable with antibiotics.

Nutritional deficiencies are common in citron cockatoos but are preventable with a balanced diet or vitamin supplements.

Emotional issues can lead to destructive behaviors like feather-pulling. Birds feeling neglected or lacking human interaction are more likely to self-mutilate.

Diet and Nutrition

Like all cockatoos, citrons are prone to weight gain, so owners should monitor their fat intake. In the wild, this bird eats seeds, nuts, berries, and fruits. A healthy diet for a pet citron cockatoo should consist of high-quality pellets, a daily helping of fresh bird-safe fruits and vegetables, and occasionally seeds or nuts as treats for good behavior. These birds can also eat some proteins in the form of cooked chicken or other meats. 

Begin by offering approximately 1/4 cup of formulated diet and 1/4 cup of fresh fruits and vegetables daily. If the bird finishes all its food, slowly add small amounts as needed. Avoid feeding birds avocados or chocolate, as these foods are toxic to them.

Exercise

All parrots need exercise, and the citron cockatoo is no exception. Provide a minimum of 3 to 4 hours of out-of-cage time daily for the bird to play and stretch its muscles.

This activity time also provides essential human contact for the birds. Consider teaching them to talk and interact with them during this time to fulfill their social needs.

Cockatoos have some of the strongest beaks and jaws among parrots. Provide plenty of durable, safe chew toys. Expect some toys to be shredded, as birds get bored quickly; rotate toys in and out frequently.

Where to Adopt or Buy a Citron-Crested Cockatoo

With their beautiful colors and endearing personalities, citron cockatoos are a popular pet bird. This species is not commonly found in pet stores, so you will need to find a reputable breeder. Trade of wild-born birds is illegal, and you should buy a bird that has a CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) certificate that proves it was captive-bred.

Ask how long they have been breeding and tour their facility. And make sure that the bird you take home is alert, active, and exhibits all the signs of a healthy bird, such as bright eyes, clean feathers, and full crops.

Prices range from $3,000 to $4,000 for hand-tame babies or adults in need of a new home. Some online sources to find citron-crested cockatoos include:

• Birds Now
• Rescue the Birds
• Adopt a Pet

More Pet Bird Species and Further Research

If you're interested in the citron cockatoo, consider these other bird species:

• Bare-Eyed Cockatoo Species Profile
• Sulphur-crested cockatoo Species Profile
• Umbrella cockatoo Species Profile

Alternatively, check out other cockatoo species profiles.