How much does a cockatoo cost?
How much does a cockatoo cost?
$700 – $3,000 average cost (common species)
$2,000 – $16,000 average cost (rare species)
$250 – $1,300 average cost for cage & supplies
Average cockatoo cost
Cockatoo prices range from $700 to $3,000 for popular, common species like the Goffins Cockatoo, Galah Cockatoo, or Umbrella Cockatoo, which are readily available from breeders and pet stores. Rare species like the Palm Cockatoo cost $2,000 to $16,000+ and are typically only available from breeders.
In addition to the cost for the cockatoo itself, expect to pay $250 to $1,300 for essential items like a cage, perches, and food bowls, plus $20 to $250 per month for food and toys.
| Factor | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Cockatoo | |
| Common species | $700 – $3,000 |
| Rare species | $2,000 – $16,000 |
| Food & Supplies | |
| Cage & accessories | $200 – $1,000 |
| Food | $20 – $50 |
| Toys | $20 – $200 |
| Bowls & water bottles | $10 – $50 |
| Average total supplies cost (initial) | $250 – $1,300 |
Cockatoo price
The cockatoo itself will cost anywhere from $700 for popular species from a pet store to $10,000+ for rare species from a breeder. The cockatoo's age, color, and level of training also impacts the price.
The table below shows the average prices for several cockatoo species. However, keep in mind that many breeders charge more than average for in-demand birds that already have some training.
| Cockatoo species | Average price |
|---|---|
| Galah Cockatoo | $700 – $2,200 |
| Goffins Cockatoo | $700 – $2,500 |
| Sulphur Crested Cockatoo | $800 – $3,000 |
| Umbrella Cockatoo | $800 – $3,000 |
| Rose Breasted Cockatoo | $900 – $3,000 |
| Bare-Eyed Cockatoo | $1,000 – $2,500 |
| Moluccan Cockatoo | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Triton Cockatoo | $1,000 – $4,000 |
| Citron Crested Cockatoo | $2,000 – $4,000 |
| Major Mitchell's Cockatoo | $2,000 – $8,000 |
| Palm Cockatoo | $3,000 – $16,000 |
Cage & accessories
A proper cage is crucial for your cockatoo's well-being and represents one of the largest initial investments, ranging from $200 to $1,000. This cost includes:
A spacious cage suitable for a large parrot
Multiple perches of varying diameters
A cage cover for nighttime
Cage liners
Mounting hardware and accessories
When selecting a cage, remember that cockatoos need ample space to spread their wings and move around comfortably. Investing in a high-quality cage can save money in the long run, as it will be more durable and safer for your bird.
Food
Monthly food costs for a cockatoo typically range from $20 to $50. This includes:
High-quality pellets as a base diet
Fresh fruits and vegetables
Nuts and seeds as treats
Mineral supplements
A balanced diet is essential for your cockatoo's health and longevity, so it's important not to cut corners on food quality to save money.
Toys
The initial cost for toys for your cockatoo will range from $20 to $200, but this is an ongoing expense. Cockatoos need a variety of toys for mental stimulation, physical exercise, beak maintenance, and entertainment.
Since cockatoos are known for quickly destroying their toys, plan to replace them regularly. This can add a significant recurring cost to your budget, but proper enrichment is crucial for preventing behavioral issues.
Bowls & water bottles
Food and water bowls cost $10 to $50. Consider purchasing multiple food bowls for different types of food. Choose heavy-bottom bowls that resist tipping, and look for stainless steel options for durability. Attachable bowls and water bottles that secure to cage bars are a convenient space-saving option and prevent accidental tipping.
Cockatoo cost factors
Several factors influence the total cost of owning a cockatoo:
Species: Rarer species command higher prices, with Palm cockatoos being among the most expensive.
Adoption vs. purchase: Adopting from a rescue organization is more affordable than buying from a breeder or pet store. Breeders usually charge premium prices but often provide health guarantees and documentation.
Location: Cockatoo prices vary significantly by region based on availability and local market conditions.
Veterinary care: Regular check-ups and potential emergency care should be factored into your budget. A routine vet visit costs $40 to $80 on average, not including any diagnostic testing.
Grooming: Nail and wing clipping costs about $20 to $25 every couple of months if you aren't able to do it yourself.
Training: Professional training may be necessary, especially for first-time bird owners.
Home repairs: Cockatoos can be destructive when out of their cage, so you might need to budget for repairs or protective measures.
FAQs about cockatoos
How long do cockatoos live?
Cockatoos live 40 to 60 years on average as pets, with some species reaching 70+ years. This long lifespan means a significant long-term financial commitment for care and supplies.
Can cockatoos talk?
Yes, cockatoos can learn to mimic human speech and sounds, and they're known for their vocal abilities. While not as proficient as African Grey parrots, they can develop vocabularies of several dozen words and phrases.
Are cockatoos noisy?
Yes, cockatoos are naturally loud birds. They vocalize frequently, especially during morning and evening hours. Keep this in mind when deciding if a cockatoo is right for your living situation. A cockatoo may not be the best choice for apartment dwellers or those with close neighbors.
Are cockatoos parrots?
Yes, cockatoos are part of the parrot family, specifically belonging to the family Cacatuidae. They share many characteristics with other parrots but are distinguished by their movable head crests.
What do cockatoos eat?
Cockatoos require a balanced diet that includes a variety of seeds, fresh fruit and vegetables, some nuts, and high-quality pellets. Avoid feeding your cockatoo an all-seed diet, as giving them too many fats can cause heart disease and reduce their lifespan.
Never feed a cockatoo these foods, which can be toxic to birds:
Peanuts
Chocolate
Coffee
Tea
Milk
Alcohol
Avocados
Eggplant
Onions
Potatoes
Rhubarb
Where are cockatoos from?
Cockatoos are native to Australia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and other parts of the South Pacific. Different species originate from different regions within these areas.
Where to buy a cockatoo
When looking for a cockatoo, consider these options:
Rescue organizations: Many cockatoos need rehoming due to their long lifespans and demanding care requirements. Adoption fees are usually much lower than purchase prices, and you'll be giving a bird a second chance.
Reputable breeders: While more expensive, breeders often provide health guarantees, documentation of the bird's age and origin, initial training and support, and ongoing guidance for care.
Pet stores: Some pet stores sell cockatoos. Research the store's reputation and bird care practices carefully before purchasing a pet.
Questions to ask your veterinarian
Ask your avian veterinarian these important questions to ensure your new cockatoo receives the best possible care:
How often should my cockatoo have checkups?
What are common health issues to watch for?
What preventative care do you recommend?
What specific diet do you recommend?
Are supplements necessary?
What grooming services will my cockatoo need?
Which toys do you recommend most for keeping my cockatoo entertained?
What are your emergency hours?
What should I have in a first-aid kit?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.