The Bare-eyed Cockatoo (Cacatua sanguinea)

The Clever Acrobat with a Heart of Gold

The Bare-eyed Cockatoo, also known as the Little Corella, is often called the “working man’s cockatoo.” While they may not have the flashy pink or yellow crests of their cousins, they are widely considered the most intelligent, playful, and easiest to handle of the entire cockatoo family.

They get their name from the distinct, bluish-grey patches of bare skin around their eyes. What they “lack” in vibrant color, they more than make up for with a goofy, circus-like personality that keeps their owners laughing.

Key Characteristics

• Natural Born Entertainers: Bare-eyed Cockatoos are the “class clowns.” They love to perform tricks, hang upside down, and dance. They are famous for their acrobatic antics.

• Exceptional Intelligence: They are widely regarded as the best “problem solvers” among cockatoos. They can learn to open locks, solve puzzles, and even mimic speech better than most other cockatoos.

• Affectionate but Independent: While they love to cuddle and be scratched, they are generally less “needy” than the larger white cockatoos, making them slightly more manageable for busy households.

• Active & Inquisitive: These birds are always on the move. They are incredibly curious and will explore every inch of their environment if given the chance.

Quick Facts

Care & Enrichment

Because they are so active and smart, a Bare-eyed Cockatoo requires an environment that keeps their “busy” mind occupied:

• Mechanical Puzzles: They have a high drive to take things apart. Provide them with plenty of puzzles, complex foraging toys, and safe “destructible” items like cardboard and soft wood.

• Out-of-Cage Time: Due to their high energy, they need several hours of supervised play every day. A sturdy play gym with plenty of climbing ropes is a must.

• Dietary Variety: A healthy diet should include high-quality pellets, plenty of fresh vegetables, and limited amounts of fruit and seeds. They are prone to obesity, so monitoring their fat intake is important.

Is a Bare-eyed Cockatoo Right for You?

The Bare-eyed Cockatoo is perfect for an owner who wants the “big personality” of a cockatoo in a more compact, slightly more independent package. If you are looking for a bird that is smart, funny, and deeply devoted to its family, the Bare-eyed is a fantastic choice.