Palm Cockatoo song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Palm Cockatoo, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

Palm Cockatoos do not have a complex song. Their vocalizations are primarily calls.

Calls

A variety of loud, harsh, and often piercing calls. Common calls include a distinctive, far-carrying 'raah' or 'kree-raah' that can be quite guttural. They also produce softer growls, hisses, and whistles. When alarmed, they emit a series of loud, screeching calls. They are also known for their unique drumming behavior, where males use a stick or hard nut to beat against a hollow log or tree branch, producing a rhythmic sound that is thought to be part of courtship or territorial display.

When they vocalize

Most vocal during early morning and late afternoon, and when flying or interacting with other cockatoos. Drumming behavior is typically observed during the breeding season.

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