PARROTS 155 



Many of the species are absolutely hardy and can with- 

 stand the lowest temperatures with little or no shelter. This 

 is especially true of the Sulphur-crested, Roseate, Slender- 

 billed and Bare-eyed Cockatoos, and the Cockateel. 



Hand-reared cockatoos make excellent pets, but usually 

 have a most annoying habit of screaming loudly and harshly. 

 They often pick up a few words, and some individuals make 

 very fair talkers. It is of interest to note that the sexes 

 of many species of cockatoos may be distinguished by 

 the color of the iris, which is dark in males and light reddish 

 in females. 



Although, being short-tailed, cockatoos will keep in very 

 good condition in a roomy cage, the larger species are much 

 better off on stands. If given the privilege of space, they 

 will derive much benefit, and occasion some amusement to 

 the owner as well, by their clownish antics — throwing 

 up the crest, spreading the wings and swinging inverted 

 from the perch. 



Cockatoos should be given a mixture of sunflower and 

 hemp seeds, oats, wheat, dari and a little canary, the in- 

 gredients being varied as opportunity permits. Peanuts are 

 welcome and beneficial, as well as ripe fruit, green food, 

 peas in the pod, green corn and an occasional dry biscuit. 

 Thoroughly boiled whole corn is relished by all parrots as 

 a tidbit and is an excellent diet for a bird that is out of 

 sorts. It must not be used too extensively for healthy 

 adult birds, as it is very fattening in character. Pure water 

 only should be provided for drinking and bathing. Aside 

 from these items, nothing should be given to cockatoos or 

 parrots. Meat, bones, tea, coffee, candy, cake, etc., should 

 be especially avoided. Indulgence in such matters is the 

 basis for most of the troubles to which captive parrots are 

 subject. 



The Sulphur-crested Cockatoo {Cacatua galerita), of 



