Moluccan Cockatoo
This page is educational reference material for preparing questions. A licensed veterinarian examines the animal, makes the diagnosis, and sets the treatment.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Cacatua moluccensis |
| Origin | Indonesia (Seram, Moluccan Islands) |
| Size | 20-24 inches (50-61 cm) |
| Weight | 1.8-2.2 lbs (800-1000 grams) |
| Lifespan | 65-80+ years |
| Noise Level | Extreme (loudest cockatoo) |
| Talking Ability | Moderate (can learn phrases) |
| Diet | Pellets, vegetables, fruits, limited nuts |
| Care Level | Expert - Most demanding cockatoo |
| Space Requirements | Very Large (minimum 40"x40"x60" cage) |
Recommended for Cockatoos
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The loudest common cockatoo
Moluccan cockatoos are Cacatua moluccensis. Adults are about 20 to 24 inches, with a salmon-pink wash under the wings and a tall crest. They often live 65 to 80 years or more. The noise is extreme, care is expert, and this is the most demanding cockatoo. That ranking is fair. The bird is big, loud, emotional, and built to spend the day in contact with a flock. A person who is gone at work is not that flock.
A fair cage is at least 40 by 40 by 60 inches. Add a play area that can be destroyed and replaced. Pellets, vegetables, fruit, and limited nuts are the diet. Screaming at dawn and dusk is normal. Screaming all day means the bird is under-slept, under-entertained, or hormonal, on top of being a Moluccan. Plucking is common in bored birds and also has medical causes. A bald chest is a vet visit.
Do not buy this bird to see if it works
Rescues are full of Moluccans whose first home wanted a cuddle. If you proceed, have a second caregiver, a house that can take the noise, and an avian vet from AAV. A fluffed, quiet Moluccan needs a vet the same day. Read the quiet bird page so you know the look.
Moluccan cockatoo questions
How loud is a Moluccan cockatoo?
The noise is extreme. People call them the loudest cockatoo. An apartment, a duplex, and many detached houses are the wrong building.
How long do they live?
Often 65 to 80 years or more. It is longer than a typical working career.
Are they beginner cockatoos?
No. Care is expert. This is the most demanding cockatoo. Goffin's are the smaller, somewhat more manageable relative. This is the large one.
Decision Guides for Moluccan Cockatoo
Use these only when comparing food, insurance, ownership budget, or beginner fit for this specific pet.