Cockatoo Price: How Much Does a Cockatoo Cost?

A cockatoo is a major financial and personal commitment, and the purchase price is the smallest part of it. These large parrots are noisy, destructive when bored, and long-lived, and they usually need a very big cage, daily out-of-cage time, and an owner who is home a lot. Many end up in rescues because buyers underestimated the work.

The numbers below cover what different species cost, what rescues charge, and the setup and monthly expense. Read them as a starting point and plan well beyond them.

The species is the biggest price driver. Larger and more common birds, such as the umbrella and the Moluccan, sit in the middle of the range, while smaller species are cheaper and rare species cost far more.

Age, training, temperament, and whether the bird is hand-raised also change the number. Hand-fed babies cost more than older birds, and a seller who has not handled a bird often may be charging for socialization that has not happened. A knowledgeable breeder or reputable rescue should be able to tell you about the bird's history.

Adoption is a common route, because many cockatoos are surrendered by owners who could not manage them. Rescue fees are usually lower than a breeder's price and may include a vet check.

The Connecticut Parrot Rescue fee is listed as a starting figure and may rise with the bird. Fees at other rescues depend on the organization, the size of the bird, and what is included. Some rescues add a cage when the bird comes with one. Expect an application, a home review, and sometimes a waiting period. Rescues screen carefully because these birds are hard to place.

The Vet Desk gives a very wide purchase range, because it includes rare species that few buyers will ever consider. The range for common species is much narrower, as the species table shows. If you are shopping for a typical umbrella or Goffin's cockatoo, the species table is the more useful guide.

A cockatoo cage is not a typical bird cage. Look for a large, sturdy cage with bars spaced and built to resist a powerful beak, plus perches, play stands, and toys that can be chewed to pieces.

The cage line is the figure The Vet Desk gives for a standard cage. Larger and stronger cages designed for big parrots can cost much more, and some guides discuss ranges well above this. Plan for a play stand, travel carrier, and a supply of toys that you will replace often. Cockatoos destroy things, which is normal behavior and not a sign of a problem.

Food, fresh produce, toys, cage supplies, and veterinary care make up the monthly total. Variation is high. A bird that needs medication or a vet visit can change a month's spending, and not every clinic treats birds, so you may travel to an avian specialist. Setting aside a reserve is wise.

Cockatoos can live for many decades, which means a bird may outlive its original owner. Consider who would care for the bird if your circumstances changed, and make arrangements in writing. Think about housing too. Landlords often restrict birds, and a bird that screams can cause complaints in apartments and shared buildings.

State and local laws apply to some parrots, and certain species are protected under federal and international rules, which can affect sales and transport. Reputable sellers should provide documentation for the bird. Ask your state wildlife agency or a local avian veterinarian which rules apply before you buy, and keep all paperwork.

• How old is the bird, and what is its health and handling history?
• Has the bird seen an avian veterinarian, and can I see the records?
• What does the price include, such as a cage, a health guarantee, or return terms?
• How does the bird behave when it is bored, and does it scream or pluck feathers?
• What do you expect in a home visit or application?