One of the most charming and endangered birds in the Philippines. With its snow-white feathers, expressive crest, and bright red patch beneath its tail, this parrot is a dazzling sight—both visually stunning and full of personality. Native only to the Philippines, it once thrived across many islands but is now found in only a few remaining strongholds, like Palawan, due to habitat loss and illegal pet trade.

What makes the Philippine cockatoo truly special is its playful intelligence and social behavior. These birds are not only smart—they’re also loud, curious, and affectionate, often forming strong bonds with other cockatoos in their flock. They communicate through a variety of squawks, whistles, and body gestures, and can even mimic sounds they hear in the environment. In the wild, they live in tight-knit family groups, flying together in flocks and sharing duties like chick feeding and guarding the nest.

One standout trait of this cockatoo is its cheeky personality. In the wild, they’re often seen hanging upside down from branches, nibbling on fruits, or tossing leaves around like they’re playing a game. They’re also known to be clever problem-solvers, using their strong beaks to pry open tough nuts or sneak into food containers. Because of this, they’re sometimes compared to toddlers—adorable, energetic, and mischievous!

FYI: The Philippine cockatoo dances! When excited or interacting with others, it often bobs its head, spreads its wings, and sways side to side like it’s grooving to music. And if you play actual music near one in captivity, chances are it will dance to the beat. These birds also raise their crest feathers when they’re excited, curious, or just showing off—giving them an expressive “hairstyle” that changes with their mood.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Philippines

650-1,120

Official estimate

CR

2017