Avise's Birds of the World

Palm Cockatoo
Probosciger aterrimus

Native Range: Australia

Notes: one of the largest Australian parrot species; distinctive with a large crest and huge bill; eats hard seeds and nuts; breaks off one-inch-diameter sticks that it uses in drumming displays; distinctive red cheek patch that changes color when the bird is alarmed or excited; does not generally flock although up to six birds may feed together; large and complex vocal repertoire; lays one egg in a tree hollow every second year; an endangered species in high demand for the pet trade.