Genus Cacatua alba

Length: 16 - 20 inches

Weight: 1 to 1.5 pounds

Life span: 60 - 70 years

Talking Ability: Low

Noise Level: High

Diet: Consists mainly of berries, fruits and nuts.

Country of Origin: Mollucan Islands, Indonesia

Temperament: Umbrella Cockatoos are perhaps the most cuddly and physically affectionate parrots on the planet. While most people would find this endearing at first, they soon learn that these birds are perhaps also the most demanding birds on the planet. They would be sewn to your hip if it was a possibility. They are very affectionate birds and may have been the source of the term "velcro bird" to describe their strong cuddling behavior. Umbrellas form strong bonds and may grow to regard their owners as mates. They are also very intelligent and curious and, if allowed, will learn to manipulate their owners. What they lack in talking ability they make up for in intelligence, as these are birds who can readily learn commands and tricks. Umbrellas are beautiful, intelligent showoffs and enjoy entertaining an audience.

Umbrellas can also be very loud. They have strong voices which carry and are not good candidates for an apartment or closely spaced housing situation. They have strong beaks and are chewers and if not monitored will destroy anything within reach. Provide umbrellas with large, roomy cages which they can climb around in and exercise in.

Umbrellas should be part of the family, their cages placed where they can see activity and where others passing by can stop to say hello. They also need to be out of their cages for a time each day, to get attention, exercise and a change of environment. Be sure they have toys and perches to satisfy the chewing urge and to keep them from becoming bored. U-2s are one of the species which tend to feather pluck for a variety of reasons including loneliness and boredom.

Owning a U2 should not be taken lightly. They require care and attention and lots of space. They can also be costly to keep. But if you can provide for their needs, you will be rewarded with lots and lots of love and affection, entertainment and fun.

Interesting Facts: Umbrella Cockatoos are named for the shape their massive white crest feathers take on when fully exposed. They are also known for covering their beaks with feathers to let anyone near by that they are so friendly, it appears they don't even have a beak to attack with!