The Galah / Rose-breasted Cockatoo (Eolophus roseicapilla)

The Pink-and-Grey “Class Clown”

The Rose-breasted Cockatoo, famously known as the Galah, is one of Australia’s most beloved and iconic parrots. With their vibrant rose-pink chest and soft silver-grey wings, they are a masterclass in nature’s color coordination.

Galahs are known for being exceptionally playful, high-energy, and much more “goofy” than their larger white-crested relatives. In Australia, the word “Galah” is even used as lighthearted slang for a “fool” or “idiot” because of the bird’s comical, acrobatic antics.

Key Characteristics

• Stunning Contrast: They are easily identified by their deep pink breast, face, and underparts, contrasted by a pale grey back and wings. They have a small, pale pink crest that they raise when curious or excited.

• The “Cheeky” Personality: Galahs are incredibly social and love to play. They are often seen hanging upside down, dancing, and rolling on their backs to get a laugh from their owners.

• Less “Clingy” but Very Social: While they love affection, they are generally less prone to the extreme separation anxiety seen in Umbrella or Moluccan Cockatoos. They value their independence but still require several hours of daily interaction.

• Clever Mimics: Galahs are among the better “talkers” in the cockatoo family. They are excellent at mimicking human speech, whistles, and repetitive household sounds like phone rings or car horns.

Quick Facts

Care & Dietary Focus

Galahs have unique health needs that set them apart from other parrots:

• The “Fatty” Warning: Galahs are biologically prone to obesity and fatty liver disease (lipomas). They must have a diet very low in fat. High-fat seeds (like sunflower or safflower) should be kept strictly as rare treats.

• Exercise is Mandatory: Because of their tendency to gain weight, out-of-cage exercise is vital. They need plenty of space to fly and stay active for at least 3 to 4 hours a day.

• Foraging Instinct: In the wild, they spend a lot of time foraging on the ground. Providing foraging mats or toys where they have to “search” for their food helps keep them mentally sharp.

Is a Galah Right for You?

The Galah is an excellent choice for a family looking for a “big personality” bird in a medium-sized package. They are hearty, funny, and deeply affectionate without being quite as demanding as the larger white species. If you can provide a healthy diet and plenty of playtime, the Galah will be your lifetime’s best entertainer.