Bare-Eyed Cockatoo: Top 15 Care Essentials
Published: 5 May 2025
If you’re looking for a smart, playful, and affectionate parrot, the Bare-Eyed Cockatoo might just be the perfect choice. Also known as the Little Corella, this charming white parrot is loved for its comical personality, expressive blue eye rings, and strong bond with humans.
The Bare-Eyed Cockatoo stands out among cockatoos for its high intelligence, moderate noise levels, and trainability making it a popular pet for both beginners and experienced bird lovers.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Bare-Eyed Cockatoo care, including diet, behavior, lifespan, and whether this bird is right for your home.
What Is a Bare-Eyed Cockatoo?
The Bare-Eyed Cockatoo (Cacatua sanguinea), also known as the Little Corella, is a medium-sized white parrot with a patch of bare skin around its eyes. It’s native to Australia and New Guinea and is loved for its playful, social nature. Unlike some larger cockatoos, it’s a bit more independent but still craves companionship.
These birds are often chosen as pets due to their friendly behavior, moderate noise level, and ability to mimic speech. If you’re considering one, it’s important to learn about its natural habits and care needs.
🔍 Physical Features and Identification
- White feathers with a hint of pink near the beak
- Light blue skin around the eyes (bare area)
- Shorter crest compared to Sulphur-Crested Cockatoos
- Average size: 14–17 inches
- Weight: 360–530 grams
This species may look like other cockatoos at first glance, but that blue eye ring makes them stand out.
Origin and Natural Habitat
The Bare-Eyed Cockatoo lives across northern and central Australia, as well as southern New Guinea. It thrives in open woodlands, grasslands, and farmland.
In the wild, they often fly in large flocks, and they’re especially drawn to water sources and agricultural areas. Their adaptable nature helps them survive in both rural and urban zones.
🧐 Why Are They Called Bare-Eyed Cockatoos?
The name comes from the distinct featherless ring of skin around their eyes. This bare patch gives them a unique look compared to other parrots.
Their other name, Little Corella, reflects their smaller size and gentler voice. While not as flashy as some other parrots, they win hearts with personality.
😄 Bare-Eyed Cockatoo Personality and Behavior
Bare-Eyed Cockatoos are playful, clownish, and highly curious. They love exploring, chewing, and interacting with humans or other birds. If left alone for too long, they can become bored and destructive.
🧑🤝🧑 Are They Friendly?
Yes! These cockatoos form strong bonds with their owners. They enjoy cuddles, shoulder time, and will often seek attention by performing silly tricks.
They can be affectionate and loyal but need social interaction daily.
🔊 Are They Loud or Quiet?
Compared to other cockatoos, they’re moderately noisy. They can be vocal in the morning and evening, especially in flocks.
However, they’re not as loud as Moluccan or Umbrella Cockatoos, making them a better choice for people in smaller homes.
🧠 Talking Ability and Intelligence
These birds are intelligent and trainable. They enjoy learning tricks and can mimic words and household sounds.
💬 Can Bare-Eyed Cockatoos Talk?
They’re not the best talkers in the parrot world, but some individuals can learn 10–20 words or phrases. They mimic voices and tones more than full sentences.
Each bird is different—some may become better talkers with regular training and attention.
🧩 How Smart Are They?
Bare-Eyed Cockatoos are problem-solvers and can figure out how to open cages, remove locks, and even manipulate toys. They need mental stimulation through puzzle toys and learning activities.
Their intelligence makes them great companions but also means they need more time and attention.
🥗 Diet and Nutrition for Bare-Eyed Cockatoos
Feeding your cockatoo the right foods is essential for health and long life. In the wild, they eat a variety of seeds, nuts, fruits, and vegetation.
🌿 What Do They Eat in the Wild?
- Grass seeds
- Native fruits
- Leafy greens
- Tree bark and roots
They forage in flocks and cover long distances to find food sources.
🍓 Safe Foods and Diet Plan at Home
Your pet Bare-Eyed Cockatoo should eat:
- 60% high-quality pellets
- 20% fresh vegetables (carrots, spinach, bell peppers)
- 10% fruits (apples, berries, bananas)
- 10% treats and seeds
Avoid chocolate, avocado, onion, caffeine, and salty or fatty snacks. Always provide clean, fresh water daily.
🏠 Bare-Eyed Cockatoo Cage Setup and Size
Your cockatoo’s cage is its home base, so it should be roomy, safe, and full of enrichment.
📏 Ideal Cage Dimensions
- Minimum size: 36” x 24” x 48”
- Bar spacing: ¾” to 1”
- Cage should allow free wing movement
Larger is always better. Don’t forget an outdoor play gym or free-flight time.
🧸 Cage Accessories and Toys
Include:
- Perches (natural wood)
- Foraging toys
- Swing or ladder
- Shreddable items
Rotate toys weekly to keep your cockatoo mentally engaged.
🧼 Daily Care and Hygiene Tips
Routine care keeps your Bare-Eyed Cockatoo happy and healthy.
🧽 Cleaning Routines
- Clean food and water bowls daily
- Wipe cage surfaces every 2–3 days
- Deep clean entire cage weekly
Cleanliness helps prevent infections and respiratory issues.
✂️ Grooming Needs
- Provide bathing options (shallow dish or mist spray)
- Trim nails regularly
- Monitor beak and feather condition
You don’t need to trim feathers unless advised by an avian vet.
🐦 Training Your Bare-Eyed Cockatoo
Training helps build trust and manage behaviors like screaming or biting.
🗣 Basic Commands
Start with:
- “Step up”
- “Come here”
- “No” or “Quiet”
Use positive reinforcement like treats and praise.
🤝 Socialization Tips
- Introduce new people slowly
- Allow supervised play outside the cage
- Let them explore new toys and places safely
Consistency helps them adjust better to changes.
⚠️ Common Health Issues in Bare-Eyed Cockatoos
Like all parrots, Bare-Eyed Cockatoos can develop health problems without proper care.
🩺 Signs of Illness
- Fluffed-up feathers
- Loss of appetite
- Discharge from eyes or nose
- Sudden quietness
If you notice any of these, contact an avian vet immediately.
🛡 Preventive Health Care
- Annual vet check-ups
- Balanced diet
- Clean living environment
- Regular mental and physical activity
Healthy habits help your bird live longer.
🐣 Breeding Bare-Eyed Cockatoos
Breeding requires experience, space, and patience.
🕐 Breeding Age and Season
- Mature at around 3–4 years
- Breeding season: Spring to mid-summer
- Nest box: 12” x 12” x 24”
Make sure the pair is bonded and healthy before breeding.
🪺 Nesting and Egg Care
- Average clutch: 2–4 eggs
- Incubation: 24–26 days
- Both parents help feed chicks
Provide soft bedding and a quiet, safe area for nesting.
🧬 Lifespan and Aging Process
Bare-Eyed Cockatoos live 40–60 years in captivity with proper care. In the wild, their lifespan may be shorter due to predators and habitat loss.
Older birds may need softer perches, easier-to-eat foods, and more rest.
🧑🤝🧑 Male vs Female Bare-Eyed Cockatoo Differences
- Males tend to have darker eyes
- Females usually have reddish-brown eyes
- Behavior differences are subtle and depend on the individual
DNA testing provides the most accurate sexing method.
💰 Cost of Owning a Bare-Eyed Cockatoo
💵 Purchase Price
- Breeder price: $1,000–$2,500 USD
- Adoption from rescues: $400–$800 USD
Prices vary based on age, training, and breeder reputation.
🧾 Monthly and Yearly Costs
- Food & toys: $50–$100/month
- Vet check-ups: $200–$300/year
- Cage setup: $300–$700 (one-time)
Cockatoos are a long-term investment in time and money.
✅ Pros and Cons of Owning a Bare-Eyed Cockatoo
Pros:
- Intelligent and trainable
- Affectionate and social
- Moderate noise level
Cons:
- Can be destructive if bored
- Needs lots of attention
- Long lifespan (requires commitment)
🛒 Where to Adopt or Buy a Bare-Eyed Cockatoo
Look for reputable breeders or check with avian rescues like:
🔗 Bird Rescue Organizations Directory – AFA
Avoid impulse buying from pet stores or unverified sellers.
⚖️ Legal and Ethical Considerations
- Check local laws (some areas have restrictions)
- Never support illegal wildlife trade
- Adopt when possible, it saves lives
Always ensure your bird has proper documentation and vet history.
📝 Conclusion
So, guys in this blog we have discussed Bare-Eyed Cockatoo in detail. The Bare-Eyed Cockatoo is a delightful, intelligent, and affectionate parrot that can make a fantastic lifelong companion, if you’re ready for the commitment. From their playful behavior and moderate noise level to their deep need for interaction and enrichment, they require daily attention and love. If you’re prepared to invest the time, effort, and care, this bird will reward you with decades of joy.
Thinking of learning more? 👉 Check out our next article on “Best Cockatoo Species for Beginners.”
❓10 Most Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions about Bare-Eyed Cockatoo , with answers to keep your feathered friend safe and healthy!
They can be, but only for committed beginners. They need time, socialization, and daily care. They’re easier than larger cockatoos but still require attention.
They usually get along well with other cockatoos or similar-sized parrots. Socialization helps, but always supervise early introductions. Some may prefer being the only bird.
They’re less noisy than Umbrella Cockatoos but still vocal. Morning and evening calls are common. Training helps reduce unnecessary screaming.
They love shreddable toys, puzzles, and foraging items. Anything that keeps their beak and mind busy is ideal. Rotate toys often to avoid boredom.
Yes, with proper training and noise control. However, neighbors might still hear occasional squawks. Make sure it’s okay with your landlord.
In captivity, they can live up to 60 years. Good care, diet, and vet checkups increase lifespan. They are a lifetime companion.
Only if stressed, bored, or sick. Mental stimulation and a healthy environment prevent this. Regular interaction is key.
They don’t need another bird but do need human attention. If left alone too long, they can develop behavior issues. Spend quality time daily.
Not usually. With proper socialization, they stay friendly and calm. They might nip if scared or hormonal.
Yes, they can learn basic words and sounds. Their mimicry isn’t as clear as African Greys, but still fun. Encourage speech with repetition and treats.
- Be Respectful
- Stay Relevant
- Stay Positive
- True Feedback
- Encourage Discussion
- Avoid Spamming
- No Fake News
- Don't Copy-Paste
- No Personal Attacks
- Be Respectful
- Stay Relevant
- Stay Positive
- True Feedback
- Encourage Discussion
- Avoid Spamming
- No Fake News
- Don't Copy-Paste
- No Personal Attacks
