Sulphur-crested Cockatoo

This is a body feather from a large white parrot known for its iconic yellow crest. The bird is highly intelligent, loud, and can reach wingspans of up to 40 inches. This specific feather shows the subtle yellow under-tint common in their plumage.

Predominantly pure white on the distal half. The proximal half of the inner vane shows a distinct pale yellow or lemon wash, which is characteristic of the hidden parts of the plumage in this species. The rachis is white.

The upper portion is tightly interlocked (pennaceous), while the base is loose and fluffy (plumulaceous) for insulation.

The rachis is relatively thin, white, and semi-flexible. Barbs are densely packed in the white section, becoming wispy and down-like toward the calamus.

Smooth, matte, and soft to the touch. The surface likely carries some 'powder down' dust, which gives the feathers of this family a characteristic dusty feel.

Likely from the breast, flank, or under-wing area. The presence of the yellow wash on the underside suggests an under-wing or under-crest covert origin.

Pure white coloration with a soft yellow wash on the base of the barbs; plumulaceous base; typical cockatoo powder-down texture.

Woodlands, rainforest edges, scrublands, and increasingly common in urban parks and suburban gardens.

Resident of Australia (eastern and northern coasts), New Guinea, and the Aru Islands; introduced populations exist in Perth, Singapore, and New Zealand.

They act as seed dispersers and opportunistic foragers. Because they chew on wood to maintain their beaks, they also create hollows used by other species.

Yellow-crested Cockatoo (Cacatua sulphurea) - these feathers are almost identical but generally smaller. Galah feathers (Eolophus roseicapilla) are distinctive pink.

These birds are incredibly long-lived, often reaching 70-80 years in captivity. They are famous for their 'sentinel' behavior where one bird watches for danger while the flock feeds.

Used historically by Indigenous Australians in ceremonial regalia. In modern times, they are popular but high-maintenance pets.

Look for these feathers beneath large gum trees or near urban parks in Australia. They are often found in large quantities during the molting season.

Good condition. Minimal wear on the edges with slight separation of barbs at the tip. The calamus is intact, suggesting a natural molt.