Eleonora Cockatoo
(Cacatua galerita eleonora)

DISCLAIMER: EACH BIRD IS UNIQUE AND THE FOLLOWING SUMMARY IS ONLY A GENERALIZATION

Length: 18 inches (average)
Weight: 475 grams

Also called the medium sulphur-crested cockatoo. Their personality is
considered to be mild and not extroverted like the Umbrella and Moluccan cockatoos. Many advise that this bird should not be a first bird and urge that experienced owners be available to guide the first time eleonora owner. They are considered a greater sulphur-crested cockatoo, but are the smallest of the greaters.

They are friendly, intelligent and willing to do tricks. Eleonoras are good dancers and many owners report the first trick they learn is to dance on command. Some love children and owners enjoy using this bird to teach children about parrots although caution is urged to not leave the bird unattended with a child for the safety of both.

Many Eleonora owners report that these cockatoos love to sit on their laps and get their heads scratched for an hour.

Their temperament can change suddenly and with little warning. It is also observed that many have extremely demanding natures. Owners observe their body language and let the bird alone when it becomes over-excited. When the crest is erect, owners should pay special attention to handling the bird to avoid aggression.

Eleonora's are reported by many to have great intelligence and they are said to be very mechanical and they can escape from many locks. A stainless steel lock is recommended for their cage doors and their food doors. Their favorite toys are ones they can tear apart to see how they work. Toy destroyers are what their owners call them and report the more toys they can destroy the happier the eleonora is. It is a very loud screamer and a bored eleonora can begin plucking itself (as can any cockatoo.) The family that loves an eleonora needs to provides lots of toys they can destroy and shred and learning stimulus.

These cockatoos are not a phobic bird and they do not scare or become intimidated very fast. They are self-confident and usually easy-going in manner. They need a very large play area and do not usually remain in one area very long. You must watch them to keep them and your items from harm.

They are not escape artists but they do try to find out how it all works. They like to unscrew items and examine the contents and take apart items like remote controls and telephones, so keep them out of an Eleonora's way.

Male and female comparisons will be developed as more eleonora owners report their experiences and impressions.