Rose Breasted Cockatoo Question

I was looking into the gallah (rose breasted) cockatoo and I was wondering if they are very similar to the larger cockatoo breeds. I've read from multiple sources that their bite isn't as bad and they are much less of a challenge (In terms of neediness, plucking, etc.) than conventional toos. So is this true? Are they in fact easier (and more rewarding) to take care of?

I dunno about more rewarding but yes, they are a little more independent than the big Toos and their bite is absolutely not as bad--it's not an "ER worthy" beak in general. But they are still Toos, so expect to have to pay them a whole lot of attention--they're just less likely to start picking all their feathers out if you don't cuddle them five hours a day like an M2 needs. Expect to still have to think of it like a child whose needs must be met, though. Oh and they are dusty, like all Toos.

Note: I don't have one yet, but this is what I understand from my research.

For the most part I don't find my galah hard to care for but she's a big commitment in terms of time and energy so easy doesn't feel like the right word either. Where large toos have a reputation for screaming and plucking, galahs seem to have a tendency to retreat into themselves when distressed, and although a miserable bird fluffed up at the back of the cage is a lot easier to ignore than a screaming mess that resembles the last chicken in the shop, it's still not something I'd wish for a bird.

But if you have the time to put in and do your research into socialisation and self entertaining, galahs can be wonderful birds, and they do seem more adaptable and easier to predict than the large toos.

Ive had 5 Toos [2 being Rb2s]. I think theirs are a world of difference between the white ones and the Rb2s. The Rb2s are a quieter bird ,the can be bratty and ive had one that seemed a little sulky [like I think Jayyj was saying ]. So your interaction is very important [even more than treats]. The trick with Toos is having their time out with you set . Something you can be realistic with, like if its only a little bit in the morning before work than do it. You want them to become a confident bird that doesn't get all stressed worrying about when their going to see you. The schedule and them learning to keep themselves busy helps be a content bird. Just a heads up ,all my Toos have been like this. They are pickier eaters , but keep giving them everything the should have . They throw everything out of their bowls [and eat it later on the ground. Very messy ,that's how they are not going to get away from that.They have chewed threw all their perches and boings !!!!!! so that's fun If you want a Too I think their a great choice. My breeder I got Owen from was amazing and I feel plays a big part in how he is today. He was socialized 3 times a week to visitors ,learned to fly and get along with other birds threw the bars of their cages. Hes my best flyer [and I didn't teach him ]. He loves my whole family . If you want the breeders name PM me.

Mine just turned 12 yesterday, and I've had him since he was a newly weaned baby. He's such a good boy, so easy. He came from one of the very best parrot stores so he had the advantage of a really good upbringing, and I think that's so very important. He's independent, fully feathered, has no really bad habits, will go to just about anyone, and is one of the easiest parrots in my flock. I know they're not ALL this easy but I really think Rosebreasted cockatoos are great parrots to keep as pets. I can't really think of anything negative about him, other than he chews wood like he's getting paid to do it. We DO make him toys, because he can chew a medium-size wood toy to toothpicks EVERY day (especially in the spring) but his toy budget is pretty high, which is just fine with me. I wish all my parrots were as easy as he is. Good luck with your choice.

There are two rose-breasteds at the sanctuary who I absolutely adore. The female is sweet and rarely ever bites; she gives me little kisses. The male will nip at my ear and at my feet, but not all the time. They're both pretty talkative and say things like "pretty bird." But, like any cockatoo, they are noisy.

NIGHT AND DAY... in terms of the neediness, and the propensity for plucking disorders. They can be loud, but they don't tend to be screamers either.

If I were to get another too, it would be an RB2. They've got the big too personality, without a lot of the big too problems that come with it...

Biting, generally speaking, is a training issue. ANY bird can be trained to control his or her bite pressure.

They can be bratty [its more a nipping]. It does hurt . I dont think Ive ever gotten a real bite.

Pinkbirdy said:

They can be bratty [its more a nipping]. It does hurt . I dont think Ive ever gotten a real bite.

Click to expand...

Bratty and Too go hand in hand, don't they?! They all occasionally throw tantrums.

Thank you so much for the information guys! Sorry I couldn't respond earlier, but I must say, you were all a huge help. I definitely have my mind set on buying one now

@Pinkbirdy

I was not able to PM you as I cannot do so without a certain amount of posts which I have yet to meet. That said, I'd really appreciate it if you could list the name of the breeder here (along with the location and pricing, if possible!) or PM me, if that's allowed as an option.

I cannot express what a difference how the birds are raised makes. I have gotten birds from all walks of life . Ive never had a bird come so well adjusted and almost trained .I would have rescued one but didn't see any in my area. I live in Ny and paid 2500 for my first one here. Carmen the breeder from Georgia I think I paid 1300 plus the flight [great experience].Call her babies are Im sure in eggs or just being born.Brightwood Aviary [I try and find the link ]. Tell her that you heard about her from Terri in NY that bought her RB2 a couple years ago. She has other species , at least you know from me shes a legit breeder and don't have to worry about your money .

Terri, does she still breed RB2's? They are not on her list.

EDIT: Just FYI for those who want to know, Carmen no longer breeds RB2s--she has gone back to "hobby breeding" and now just breeds her favs!

Well that's sad She does do other breeds . If I was going to get a baby I would use her in a heartbeat . Puck - what about a Macaw ?

No I have my heart set on a Galah! Maybe in the future.

Wow, it looks like Carmen is selling RB2s again, which works out nicely for me since I am once more looking! I'll cross my fingers that this time it will work out.