Nature conservation

Threatened species

Pink Cockatoo - profile

Indicative distribution

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predicted
The areas shown in pink and/purple are the sub-regions where the species or community is known or predicted to occur. They may not occur thoughout the sub-region but may be restricted to certain areas. ( click here to see geographic restrictions). The information presented in this map is only indicative and may contain errors and omissions.
Scientific name: Lophochroa leadbeateri
Conservation status in NSW: Vulnerableexternal link
Commonwealth status: Endangeredexternal link
Profile last updated: 11 Oct 2024

Description

An unmistakable cockatoo of the dry inland, the Pink Cockatoo is the only Australian cockatoo that is salmon-pink below and white above. It is also called the wijugla in Wiradjuri Language, and until recently was listed under the name of Cacatua leadbeateri. It is smaller than the Sulphur-crested Cockatoo C. galerita, but slightly larger than a Galah Eolophus roseicapillus. Its most prominent feature is its large white-tipped crest that is banded in red and gold. Its call is a distinctive stammering whinny.

The eastern subspecies Lophochroa leadbeateri leadbeateri is listed as Endangered under Commonwealth legislation. It is the only subspecies found in NSW.

Distribution

Found across the arid and semi-arid inland, from south-western Queensland south to north-west Victoria, through most of South Australia, north into the south-west Northern Territory and across to the west coast between Shark Bay and about Jurien. In NSW it is found regularly as far east as about Bourke and Griffith, and sporadically further east than that.

Habitat and ecology

  • Inhabits a wide range of treed and treeless inland habitats, always within easy reach of water.
  • Feeds mostly on the ground, especially on the seeds of native and exotic melons and on the seeds of species of saltbush, wattles and cypress pines.
  • Normally found in pairs or small groups, though flocks of hundreds may be found where food is abundant.
  • Nesting, in tree hollows, occurs throughout the second half of the year; nests are at least 1 km apart, with no more than one pair every 30 square kilometres.

Regional distribution and habitat

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Threats

Recovery strategies

Activities to assist this species

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