Moluccan Cockatoo: The Pink-Feathered Charmer

Published: 7 Apr 2025

The Moluccan Cockatoo (Cacatua moluccensis), also called the Salmon-crested Cockatoo, is one of the most striking and affectionate parrots in the world. Known for its vibrant salmon-pink feathers, playful personality, and loud vocalizations, this bird is a dream pet for some and a handful for others.

This guide covers everything from the Moluccan Cockatoo’s natural habitat to diet, lifespan, sounds, and price. Whether you’re researching cockatoo care or considering adoption, we’ll help you decide if this pink-crested cockatoo is right for you.

Table of Content

What is a Moluccan Cockatoo?

The Moluccan Cockatoo (Cacatua moluccensis) is a large parrot native to Indonesia’s Seram Island. Often confused with the Umbrella Cockatoo, this salmon-crested cockatoo stands out with its peach-colored plumage and dramatic crest.

Quick Facts:

Other Names: Salmon-crested Cockatoo, Pink Moluccan Cockatoo
Size: 18–22 inches (one of the biggest cockatoos)
Lifespan: 50–60 years (longer than most parrots)
Conservation Status: Vulnerable (rare in the wild)

These birds form deep bonds with owners, earning their “Velcro bird” nickname.

Moluccan Cockatoo Appearance & Size

Distinctive Features:

Color: Soft peach cockatoo feathers with white wings.
Crest: A pink crested cockatoo signature—flares when excited.
Weight: 800–1,200g (heavier than umbrella cockatoos).

Pro Tip: Their size demands a large cage (minimum 36″x48″x60″).

Moluccan Cockatoo Personality & Behavior

Temperament Traits:

✔ Affectionate – Loves cuddles (“Velcro bird”).
✔ Loud – Moluccan Cockatoo sounds reach 120 decibels.
✔ Intelligent – Needs puzzles to avoid boredom (plucking cockatoo issues).

Ideal For: Experienced owners who understand cockatoo care.

Moluccan Cockatoo Care Guide

Diet (Moluccan Cockatoo Diet)

80% Pellets, 20% fresh fruits/veggies.
Avoid: Avocado, chocolate (toxic to parrots).

Cage Setup

Size: Fit for the largest cockatoos.
Toys: Foraging toys to prevent feather plucking.

Exercise Needs

3–4 hours daily outside the cage.

Moluccan Cockatoo Price & Availability

Cost Breakdown:

Price (US):
2,000–
2,000–4,000 (Moluccan Cockatoo for sale).
Price (India/Pakistan/Bangladesh): ₹1.5–3 lakhs (rare).

Adoption Tip: Check rescues many Moluccan Cockatoos need rehoming.

Moluccan Cockatoo vs. Umbrella Cockatoo

Feature	Moluccan	Umbrella
Color	Peach-colored cockatoo	White
Size	Larger (biggest cockatoo)	Slightly smaller
Noise	Extremely loud	Very loud

Verdict: Moluccans are more colorful but equally demanding.

Moluccan Cockatoo Lifespan: A Lifetime Commitment

The Moluccan Cockatoo lifespan is one of the longest among parrots, typically 50-60 years in captivity with proper care. Some individuals have even reached 70+ years! Their extreme longevity means owning one is a multi-generational commitment – many outlive their original owners. Key factors affecting lifespan include:

Diet: Nutritional imbalances can shorten life by 10-15 years
Vet Care: Annual checkups prevent common cockatoo health issues
Environment: Stress reduces lifespan (they need 10-12 hours of sleep nightly)

Fun Fact: The oldest recorded Moluccan lived to 92 years in a Chicago zoo! This makes them potentially longer-lived than most dogs and their owners.

Moluccan Cockatoo Breeding: What You Must Know

Moluccan Cockatoo breeding requires expertise – these birds reach sexual maturity at 5-6 years and need precise conditions:

Pairs bond for life, often becoming aggressive toward others during cockatoo breeding season
Requires large aviary (minimum 10’x6’x6′) with a nesting box (24″x24″x36″)
Egg incubation lasts 28-30 days – hens lay 2-3 eggs annually
Hand-feeding chicks demands every 2-3 hour care for 12 weeks

Critical Note: Due to their vulnerable status, ethical breeding requires CITES permits. Many Moluccan Cockatoos for sale come from unsustainable sources – always verify breeders’ credentials.

Moluccan Cockatoo Facts

Here are 5 fascinating facts about Moluccan Cockatoos you probably didn’t know:

1. They Blush Like Humans

Their salmon-pink feathers actually deepen in color when excited or agitated – nature’s mood ring! This unique trait makes them one of the few birds that visibly “blush.”

2. Their Crest is a Communication Tool

The striking crown of feathers isn’t just for show. A raised crest can mean:

😍 Happiness (slightly raised)
😠 Aggression (fully erect)
😨 Fear (flattened)

3. They’re the Heavyweight Champions

Weighing up to 1,200g (2.6 lbs), they’re the heaviest of all cockatoo species – that’s like holding a small bowling ball on your arm!

4. Their Love Language is Chewing

In the wild, they reshape entire trees with their powerful beaks. Pet Moluccans will happily redecorate your home (furniture, moldings, door frames) if not given proper wood toys.

5. They’re Master Escape Artists

These genius birds can:

Open cage latches with their beaks
Untie knots with their tongues
Memorize lock mechanisms
Always use avian-proof locks on enclosures!

Bonus Fact: Their scientific name Cacatua moluccensis comes from their Molucca Islands origin, where they’re now critically endangered due to habitat loss.

Conclusion

The Moluccan Cockatoo parrot is a magnificent but demanding companion. Their vibrant colors, intelligence, and emotional depth come with lifelong responsibilities. If you’re ready for decades of commitment, this salmon-crested charmer will reward you with unmatched loyalty.

Want to adopt? Research Moluccan Cockatoo breeders or rescues near you! Got questions? Ask below! 🦜

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Moluccan Cockatoo Parrot with answers to keep your feathered friend safe and healthy!

1. How long do Moluccan Cockatoos live?

Moluccan Cockatoos have an impressive lifespan of 50–60 years in captivity. They often outlive their owners, requiring long-term care plans. Proper diet and vet check-ups boost their longevity.

2. Are Moluccan Cockatoos good pets for beginners?

No, they’re high-maintenance and demand experienced owners. Their loud screams, need for attention, and long lifespan make them challenging. Beginners should consider smaller, quieter parrots first.

3. What’s the difference between a Moluccan and Umbrella Cockatoo?

Moluccans have salmon-pink feathers, while Umbrellas are pure white. Both are large, but Moluccans are slightly heavier and louder. Temperament-wise, both need extreme socialization.

4. How much does a Moluccan Cockatoo cost?

Prices range from

2,000–

2,000–4,000 in the US. In India/Pakistan, expect ₹1.5–3 lakhs due to rarity. Adoption from rescues can be cheaper.

5. Do Moluccan Cockatoos talk?

Yes, but they’re not the best talkers. They mimic words with a gravelly voice and prefer whistling/screaming. African Greys or Amazons speak more clearly.

6. Why is my Moluccan Cockatoo plucking its feathers?

Feather plucking signals stress, boredom, or illness. Improve their diet, add toys, and consult an avian vet. Loneliness is a major trigger spend more time with them.

7. What’s the ideal cage size for a Moluccan Cockatoo?

Minimum 36″x48″x60″ bigger is better. They need space to stretch wings and climb. Include perches, chew toys, and foraging puzzles.

8. Can Moluccan Cockatoos live with other birds?

They’re territorial and may attack smaller birds. Supervised interaction is key. Same-species pairs can work if introduced slowly.

9. How loud are Moluccan Cockatoos?

Their screams hit 120 decibels like a rock concert! They vocalize at dawn/dusk and when bored. Training can reduce (but not eliminate) noise.

10. What should I feed my Moluccan Cockatoo?

80% pellets, 20% fresh veggies/fruits, and occasional nuts. Avoid seeds, avocado, and chocolate. Hydration is critical always provide clean water.