upatsix.com - Your Source For Pet Bird Information

Hello!

I just introduced myself over in the introductions area. I'm trying to do a little research on different species of birds in hopes of finding a good match for my family. While looking over the website of the breeder I purchased my Senegal from, I noticed he's currently hand feeding a baby Citron Crested Cockatoo.

I've been trying to look up species specific information about Citrons, but mostly I'm only finding really generic information that applies to all cockatoos. I've done some reading on that note as well, and had the pleasure of baby sitting an eight year old umbrella for about a month last year and had little trouble with her. I'm appreciably nervous about all the difficulties cockatoo owners have had, but I'm still intrigued. Is it really all bad once they hit maturity or is it just that when the babies grow up and get testier people aren't willing to give them space? The U2 I took care of was sweet most of the time and extremely clear about communicating when she wanted physical attention and when she just wanted hands off interaction. Of course, a month is not nearly long enough of a time to get a clear view of day to day behavior, especially since being in a new place must have had an effect on her what she did and how she interacted with us.

Can anyone tell me how Citrons compare to Umbrellas in temperament? Anything in particular I should know, read, or look out for with this species? Are they as prone to some of the self destructive behaviors that U2s and M2s seem to be, or can they be stabilized with careful socialization and attention?

-Rebecca

Cittrons and the lesser sulphurs are fairly independent. In general, they are not as cuddly and demanding
as Umbrellas. I have met only 1 neurotic bird, but the owner was not much different. The best advice that I have read is that you should treat the new baby almost in the same way that you would treat it later, when the newness wears off. I know it's hard, but it's something to keep in mind.

Have you considered adopting a cockatoo? There are many, many cockatoos that need homes out there. I have 2 rehomed goffins.

Bev