Red Tailed Black Cockatoo for Sale

 Red Tail Black Cockatoos are in the prime of their breeding years, confirmed healthy and vaccinated to ensure their well-being. With their banded identification and DNA sexing available for both males and females, you can trust in the quality and authenticity of our breeding pair.

Red Tailed Black Cockatoos are native to Australia and are known for their bright red striping along their tail. Red Tail Cockatoos can make wonderful companions. Like all cockatoos, they require time, commitment and training. They are large birds that require large enclosures, a well-rounded diet, and lots and lots of toys. At Parrot Stars we focus on education, nutrition, and conservation. We work very hard to help educate our customers on parrot companionship. Prior to taking a bird home, we will provide information on proper housing, creating a safe environment, diet, behavior, hormones and much more. No question will go unanswered. Every hand fed baby is weaned on to a high variety diet. They are weaned onto fruits and veggies, a soak and sprout mix we make here in store, high variety seed that we also make here in store, and naturally colored pellet.

What is a Red-Tailed Black Cockatoo?

The Red-Tailed Black Cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus banksii) is a large, glossy-black parrot native to Australia. This species is best recognized by its striking red tail feathers (seen in males), large curved beak, and expressive crest. These birds inhabit forests, woodlands, and savannahs, and they play an essential role in seed dispersal and forest ecology.

Why Buy a Red-Tailed Black Cockatoo?

1. Unmatched Beauty

The glossy black plumage combined with vivid red tail feathers in males makes this bird visually stunning. Females have yellow-orange spots and bars on the chest and tail, offering a more speckled appearance.

2. Strong Bonding Ability

Red-Tailed Black Cockatoos are emotionally intelligent birds that form strong bonds with their human companions. They thrive on interaction and affection, making them excellent companions for committed owners.

3. Highly Intelligent

Like other cockatoos, they are incredibly smart and capable of learning tricks, mimicking sounds, and problem-solving. Their curious nature makes enrichment and mental stimulation essential.

4. Rare and Exotic

Owning a Red-Tailed Black Cockatoo is a privilege due to their rarity in the pet trade. Reputable breeders follow ethical practices to ensure these birds are raised in healthy, social environments.

Things to Consider Before You Buy

Buying a Red-Tailed Black Cockatoo for sale isn’t like buying a typical pet. These birds require time, space, and dedication.These birds need daily attention, social interaction, and environmental enrichment. They’re not suited for people with busy lifestyles who cannot provide consistent care.

What to Look for in a Red-Tailed Black Cockatoo for Sale

If you’re looking for a healthy and well-socialized cockatoo, here are key things to look for:

• Licensed Breeder or Aviary: Only buy from a certified, ethical breeder with a reputation for hand-rearing and socializing birds.

• Health Certificate: Ensure the bird is checked by an avian vet and free of diseases.

• Behavioral Traits: Look for a bird that’s curious, alert, and interactive. Avoid birds showing signs of lethargy, plucking, or aggression.

• Diet and Habits: Ask about the bird’s current diet and routine to ensure a smooth transition to your home.

Caring for a Red-Tailed Black Cockatoo

Housing

These cockatoos need a large, secure enclosure (minimum 6ft x 6ft x 6ft), preferably an outdoor aviary with shelter. The cage must be made of strong metal due to their powerful beaks.

Diet

A balanced diet is crucial. Provide:

• Pelleted parrot food

• Fresh fruits and vegetables (apples, carrots, leafy greens)

• Sprouted seeds and nuts (in moderation)

• Fresh water daily

Avoid avocado, chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol — all toxic to birds.

Socialization and Mental Stimulation

Without regular mental stimulation, cockatoos can become bored and develop behavioral issues like feather plucking or screaming. Offer:

• Daily out-of-cage time

• Puzzle toys

• Foraging opportunities

• Vocal interaction or training sessions

Common Health Issues

Red-Tailed Black Cockatoos are generally hardy, but common issues include:

• Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease (PBFD)

• Respiratory infections

• Feather-plucking (due to stress or boredom)

• Nutritional deficiencies

Schedule regular check-ups with an avian vet and maintain a clean, safe environment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Are Red-Tailed Black Cockatoos good pets?
A: Yes, for experienced bird owners. They are affectionate, intelligent, and engaging but need consistent attention and care.

Q: Can Red-Tailed Black Cockatoos talk?
A: They can mimic sounds and words, but they are not the best talkers compared to other parrots like African Greys.

Q: How long do Red-Tailed Black Cockatoos live?
A: In captivity, they can live 40–60 years with proper care.