The Palm Cockatoo is one of the world's most sort after birds. On Cape York Peninsula in Northern Queensland, it is locally referred to simply as 'Palmy'.
It is the largest Cockatoo in Australia, with an 'Elvis' style swept back crest, it's no wonder birders come from near and far to view this genuine character of the bird world.
It is a robust slate-black cockatoo, with a huge bill and orange/pink facial skin, that turns bright scarlet when excited.
The species has several races, with the bird occurring in West Papua and New Guinea as well as Cape York.
Breeding occurs between July and March. Pairs are territorial and resident, nesting in hollows of dead or living Eucalypt trees with suitable hollows. Both partners give a spectacular drumming display at the nest hollow holding a specially prepared stick or seed pod from' The Bushmans Clothes Peg' (Grevillea glauca) in one foot and beating it against the hollow trunk.
I first saw this behaviour almost 40 years ago, whilst fishing, thus making this bird one of my all time favourites.
Chiefly a quiet arboreal feeder, taking seeds and fruits from a wide variety of seasonal plants, but also seen on the ground feeding on fallen nuts and fruits. Often seen in Pandanus plants and Beach Almond trees.
The presence of the bird in a tree can go unnoticed, but for the sound and sight of falling fruit and nuts. When wandering around the bush of northern Cape York keep an eye open, but also keep an ear out for the unique high pitched whistle call, often finished by a short screech.
The conservation status is uncertain as its home range has changed little. Threats include smuggling, irregular fire regimes that destroy nesting trees plus land clearing.
Once seen and heard you will be smitten with this icon of the remote and wild region of Cape York peninsula. Every birder needs to go to Cape York. The Palm Cockatoo is a highlight of our Wet Tropics/Cape York safari
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