Calyptorhynchus banksii

Description

The Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo is mostly glossy black and has an erectile crest that forms an obvious helmet when raised and pushed forward. The male is glossy black with bright red panels in its tail. The female has yellow spots on her head, neck and wings. Her underbody is barred a pale orange-yellow and her tail has orange-yellow panels, barred black. This cockatoo is also called the Banksian, Black, Great-billed or Red-tailed Cockatoo or Banks’ Black-Cockatoo.

Distribution

Found around most of Australia but more typically in the drier areas of the continent.

Oakvale Distribution Maps png Redtailed Cockatoo
Red Tailed Black Cockatoo Distribution Map

Lifespan

45 - 50 years.

Size

Approximately 60cm in length and weigh upwards of 600g; some of the males may weigh as much as 900g.

Diet

Seeds, mainly eucalyptus seeds, but also nuts, berries, fruits and some insects.

Habitat

The Red-Tailed Black Cockatoo inhabits eucalyptus woodlands near water but may also be found in thick eucalyptus forests, rainforests and other areas. They may be seen in large flocks, especially in the north of the country.

Breeding

They breed all year round if conditions are favourable. They build nests in hollows in trees, usually Eucalyptus and make a nest of woodchips at the base of the hollow. A female will lay 1 - 2 egg and the mother takes responsibility for incubating the egg while her mate provides food for her. The incubation period is about 30 days.

凤头鹦 | オウム | 코카투