The Citron-crested Cockatoo (Cacatua sulphurea citrinocristata)

The Elegant Jewel of the Lesser Sulphurs

The Citron-crested Cockatoo is a stunning and rarer subspecies of the Lesser Sulphur-crested Cockatoo. Native to the island of Sumba in Indonesia, it is widely considered the most beautiful and colorful of the “white” cockatoos.

What sets the Citron apart is its vivid, orange-tangerine crest—a striking departure from the lemon-yellow crests seen on its relatives. They are smaller and more refined than the giant Umbrella or Moluccan Cockatoos, making them a favorite for those who want a “big” cockatoo personality in a slightly more manageable size.

Key Characteristics

• Iconic Orange Crest: Their most famous feature is the forward-curving crest of bright citron-orange feathers. They also have distinct orange-yellow patches on their cheeks (the “ear” coverts).

• Affectionate & Sensitive: Citrons are known for being deeply affectionate “velcro birds.” They form intense emotional bonds with their owners and love nothing more than a good head scratch.

• Quiet Intelligence: While they can certainly be loud when excited, many owners find Citrons to be slightly quieter and more contemplative than the boisterous Umbrella Cockatoos.

• Playful Curiosity: They are very inquisitive and enjoy investigating new objects, untying knots, and performing little dances for attention.

Quick Facts

Care & Emotional Needs

The Citron-crested Cockatoo is a highly sentient bird that requires a dedicated emotional commitment:

• Mental Health: Because they are so social, they are prone to separation anxiety. They require an owner who is home often and can provide several hours of direct interaction daily.

• Shredding & Chewing: Like all cockatoos, they have a biological need to chew. Provide plenty of soft wood, leather strips, and bird-safe cardboard to prevent them from chewing on furniture.

• Dietary Balance: A base of high-quality pellets supplemented with fresh vegetables (especially orange and leafy green ones) is essential. Avoid high-fat seed diets to prevent obesity and fatty liver disease.

Is a Citron-crested Cockatoo Right for You?

The Citron is perfect for the person who wants a deeply emotional, beautiful companion and has the time to devote to a “full-time” feathered friend. They are elegant, loving, and truly one-of-a-kind in the parrot world.