Major Mitchell's Cockatoo
Major Mitchell's Cockatoo or Leadbeaters Cockatoo
Cacatua leadbeateri
Major Mitchell's cockatoos originate only from Australia, there is 1 sub species mollis.
Stunningly beautiful birds, they are named in honour of Major Sir Thomas Mitchell, who was actually a Scottish surveyor and explorer of Australia in the 19th century, he became Surveyor General of New South Wales. He travelled and documented Australia with native Aboriginal tribesmen and women.
Major Mitchells are classed as least concern on the IUCN Red List. There is no current information available to show that their number have, or are in decline.
They are fairly large cockatoos, less noisy than Galerita and are seen in small flocks, often with Roseate and Corella cockatoos. very distinctive with their lovely pink and orange colouring.
Not common in the UK as pets, scarcely seen in fact, which is a good thing. There are enough cockatoos of other species already in rescue situations.
They are also if available very expensive although not an endangered species.
