How to Care for a Baby Umbrella Cockatoo After Bringing it Home

Described as "the cuddly bird," umbrella cockatoos can be excellent companions. They are affectionate and playful, with inquisitive eyes that captivate their owners. But umbrella cockatoos are an intensive commitment. They have a lifespan of up to 65 years and can be loud. These birds require several hours of socialization and play each day to maintain physical and emotional health. While the rewards of caring for a baby umbrella cockatoo are great, so are the responsibilities.

Things You'll Need

  • Cage
  • Cage litter
  • Toys
  • Bird pellets
  • Varied fruits, nuts, beans, and vegetables
  • Water
  • Bowl (optional)
  • Water tube dispenser (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Provide an ample sized cage for your baby umbrella cockatoo. Shelly Bohannon, writing for the Avianweb.com website, advises new owners to buy a cage that measures at least 40-by-36-inches to ensure sufficient space for the bird to play. Include a layer of cage litter in the bottom tray.

    • 2

      Place many different types of toys for the cockatoo to play with. The bird will appreciate several kinds of toys, including rope toys, puzzles, wood toys, and raffia toys.

    • 3

      Feed the cockatoo a varied diet of commercial bird pellets, beans, nuts, and fruits and vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, apples, carrots, and green beans. Provide fresh water daily in a bowl or water tube dispenser.

    • 4

      Remove the bird from its cage several times a day for play and socialization. Umbrella cockatoos become bored and self-destructive very quickly if they do not receive social interaction.