How to identify the Palm Cockatoo

To correctly identify the Palm Cockatoo (Probosciger aterrimus), check each of these features. Birds can be tricky: habit, habitat, and call often confirm a sighting that a single photo cannot.

Size at a glance

Length

55-60 cm (22-24 in)

Wingspan

90-100 cm (35-39 in)

Weight

910-1200 g (2.0-2.6 lbs)

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Adults are predominantly smoky-grey to black, with a large, erectile crest of long, narrow feathers. The underparts are slightly paler. The most striking feature is the bare, bright red cheek patches on either side of the face, which can flush darker red or orange depending on the bird's emotional state.

2. 2

   Beak shape

   Shape and color of the bill: a key field mark.

   Massive, dark grey to black, highly curved upper mandible and a shorter, broader lower mandible. It is one of the largest beaks of any parrot, adapted for cracking hard nuts.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Dark brown

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Dark grey to black

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   The combination of its large size, all-black plumage, prominent erectile crest, massive beak, and bare red cheek patches makes it unmistakable. The crest feathers are often held forward, giving it a 'punk rock' appearance.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles resemble adults but have a paler, more greyish plumage, a slightly smaller beak, and often have some yellow streaking or barring on the underparts and underwing coverts. The bare facial skin may be paler pinkish-red.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal changes in plumage. The intensity of the red facial skin can vary with excitement or health.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Males are generally slightly larger than females and have a larger beak. The bare facial skin of males may be a more intense red. However, these differences are subtle and not always reliable for sexing in the field.

Key field marks

• Size and Coloration. Look for a very large, all-black or smoky-grey cockatoo. Its sheer size alone is often a good indicator.
• Crest. Observe the distinctive, tall, narrow, erectile crest feathers that often point forward, giving it a unique silhouette.
• Beak. Note the enormous, dark grey to black beak, which is disproportionately large compared to other cockatoos.
• Facial Patches. Identify the bare, bright red skin patches on the cheeks. These are highly visible and can change intensity with the bird's mood.
• Vocalizations and Drumming. Listen for its loud, harsh 'raah' calls and, if in breeding habitat, the unique drumming sound made by males tapping sticks against trees.

Explore the Palm Cockatoo