Behavior and Personality

Ducorps’ cockatoos, also known as the Solomon Islands cockatoo or Solomon’s corella, are medium-sized cockatoos that range from 12 to 14 inches long. They are not well known in aviculture and only became available in the early 1990s. Smaller than an Umbrella, larger than a Goffin but very elegant. Fairly rare in the US and once discovered by the pet bird world will become one of the top sought after parrots. A sweet, lovable, quiet cockatoo that is good with children and the entire family, higly recommended!

Feeding

Cockatoos should be fed a formulated (pelleted or extruded) diet supplemented with fresh fruits and vegetables daily to add variety and psychological enrichment. Feed approximately 1/4 cup of formulated diet and 1/4 cup of fresh fruits and vegetables daily. Monitor food intake. Overfeeding leads to pickiness, selective feeding and wasteful food throwing. Vitamin supplements are not needed for birds eating a formulated diet.

Grooming

Routine bathing or showering is vital to maintaining good plumage and skin condition. Birds can be misted and allowed to dry in a warm room or in the sun, or they can be gently dried with a blow dryer. Care should be taken not to clip the wing feathers excessively as cockatoos often fall and injure themselves. Clip only the primary flight feathers and only enough so the bird will glide to the floor. Ducorps’ are better flyers than Moluccans and umbrellas and a few more feathers should be clipped.

Housing

Ducorps’ cockatoos are very active and should be provided the largest cage that space and budget allows – one that allows room for flight. Durable cage construction is not critical as Ducorps’ are not such strong chewers. Many are adept at opening cage latches, so locks or escape-proof latches may be necessary. The birds should also be supplied with a retreat to guard against insecurity and fear responses. Ideally, the bird should have an outdoor cage as well to allow playtime in the fresh-air and sunlight.