YELLOW-TAILED BLACK-COCKATOO
Calyptorhynchus funereus
IUCN Conservation Status: Least Concern (LC)
Classification Calyptorhynchus
Genus funereus
Family Cacatuidae
Order Psittaciformes
Class Aves
OVERVIEW
Despite the IUCN classification of Least Concern, the Yellow-Tailed Black-Cockatoo has experienced a significant decline in numbers in recent years due to native habitat loss, which negatively impacts the cockatoo’s food supply and nesting. A large black bird with distinctive yellow tail feathers, the aptly named Yellow-Tailed Black-Cockatoo is endemic to Australia, found across south eastern Australia, from Eyre Peninsula through to central eastern Queensland.
HABITAT
Yellow-Tail Black-Cockatoo’s favour eucalypt forests, woodlands, pine plantations, and temperate rainforests.
BREEDING
Yellow-Tailed Black-Cockatoos have a long breeding season, which varies throughout their range. Both parents construct the nest, then the female incubates the eggs alone, whilst the male supplies her with food. Generally a clutch of two white, oval eggs are laid, though usually one offspring survives. The chick will stay with its parents for approximately six months.
SIZE
55 - 65 cm
DIET
Wood-boring larvae, seeds of native and introduced trees and ground plants, and pinecones are the preferred foods of Yellow-Tailed Black-Cockatoo’s, who generally feed in small to large, noisy flocks.
COMMUNICATION
The Yellow-Tailed Black-Cockatoo has a far-carrying cry distinct to those who live in their habitat. Sometimes, they will screech when scared, or “chatter” amongst their flock whilst in flight.
