Gang-Gang Cockatoo with a rusty hinge voice

Gang-Gang Cockatoo is a smaller bird compared to other cockatoos with a size around 33-36 cm. Only males can be distinguished by a wispy, red crest that looks like a hanging feather.

Females have a grey body and head. They can be mistakenly mixed with Galahs due to their colouring and small size.

Due to the distinctive red crest, the cockatoo is also known under other nicknames: Red-Headed Cockatoo or Red-Crowned Cockatoo.

Read about Sulphur Crested Cockatoo.

Read about Red-Tailed Cockatoo.

Gang-Gang Cockatoo Habitat

During summer, when temperatures are warmer, they live in tall mountain woodlands and forests. In winter, they move to the lower and drier parts, and you can find them next to the road or local parks in urban areas.

Red-Headed Cockatoo Distribution

This cockatoo is not widespread in Australia, unlike other cockatoos. They live in south-eastern Australia, Victoria and New South Wales. Interestingly, their small population is endemic to the region and you cannot find them anywhere else.

They need tall trees to build nests.

What sound do they make?

Imagine opening a wine bottle that has a cork. Twist that cork while trying to remove it from the bottle and you have it. If you did not get it right, imagine a rusty hinge sound.

However, they are usually quieter than other cockatoos.

Is Gang-Gang Cockatoo endangered?

No, according to the IUCN Red List their current conservation status is Least Concern (LC). The numbers have not been counted, but it is believed there are about 10000 mature individuals.

As the cockatoo requires tall trees to survive they are vulnerable in land clearing areas where the trees are being removed.

Red-Headed Cockatoo Lifespan

Like many cockatoos, this one can live up to 50 years.

Our encounters

We did not have a chance to spot one, perhaps because they live high in trees.

Barking Owl – more information

Find out more information about Gang-Gang Cockatoo.

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