Cockatoo vs. Parrot: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Cockatoos are a distinct bird family known for their crests and curved bills, whereas parrots encompass a wider range of species including cockatoos, known for their vibrant colors and ability to mimic sounds.
Key Differences
Cockatoos are characterized by their prominent crests and curved beaks, while parrots, a larger group, include many species with a variety of physical traits.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 26, 2023
Cockatoos often have a more limited color range, primarily in white, grey, and pink hues, unlike parrots, which are known for a wider spectrum of vibrant colors.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 26, 2023
In terms of behavior, cockatoos are known for being very social and affectionate, whereas parrots vary widely in social behavior, with some being solitary.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 26, 2023
Cockatoos, native primarily to Australia and Indonesia, have a distinct geographical distribution compared to parrots, which are found in various regions worldwide.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 26, 2023
The vocal abilities of cockatoos are generally less developed than those of many parrots, which are famed for their exceptional mimicking skills.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 26, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Social Behavior
Highly social and affectionate
Varies widely, some are solitary
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 26, 2023
Vocal Mimicking
Less developed mimicking skills
Often excellent mimicking skills
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 26, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Cockatoo and Parrot Definitions
Cockatoo
A bird with a strong, curved bill for cracking nuts.
The cockatoo skillfully used its bill to crack open a macadamia nut.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 21, 2023
Parrot
A bird known for its vibrant feathers and mimicry.
The parrot amused everyone by mimicking their laughter.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 21, 2023
Cockatoo
Known for its loud and distinctive call.
The cockatoo's call echoed through the forest at dawn.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 21, 2023
Parrot
Found in tropical and subtropical regions globally.
Parrots are a common sight in many tropical rainforests.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 21, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Cockatoo
A large, often white or pink, crested parrot.
The cockatoo displayed its magnificent crest when excited.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 21, 2023
Parrot
Any of numerous primarily tropical and subtropical birds of the order Psittaciformes, characterized by a short hooked bill, brightly colored plumage, and, in some species, the ability to mimic human speech or other sounds.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Cockatoo
Native to Australasia, with a notable presence in Australia.
In Australia, it's common to see cockatoos in both wild and urban settings.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 21, 2023
Parrot
One who imitates the words or actions of another, especially without understanding them.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Cockatoo
Highly social and can bond closely with humans.
Their pet cockatoo was an integral part of the family, always seeking attention.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 21, 2023
Cockatoo
Any of various parrots of the family Cacatuidae of Australia and adjacent areas, characterized by a long erectile crest.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Parrot
A kind of bird, many species of which are colorful and able to mimic human speech, of the order Psittaciformes or (narrowly) of the family Psittacidae.
I bought a wonderful parrot at the pet store.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Cockatoo
A bird of the family Cacatuidae with a curved beak and a zygodactyl foot.
We saw some cockatoos in the aviary.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Parrot
A parroter; a person who repeats the words or ideas of others.
What kind of a parrot are you? He just said that.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Cockatoo
A bird of the Parrot family, of the subfamily Cacatuinæ, having a short, strong, and much curved beak, and the head ornamented with a crest, which can be raised or depressed at will. There are several genera and many species; as the broad-crested cockatoo (Plictolophus cristatus or Cacatua cristatus), the sulphur-crested (Cacatua galerita or Plictolophus galeritus), etc. The palm cockatoo or great black cockatoo of Australia is Probosciger aterrimus (formerly Microglossus aterrimus).
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Cockatoo
White or light-colored crested parrot of the Australian region; often kept as cage birds
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Parrot
(transitive) To repeat (exactly what has just been said) without necessarily showing understanding, in the manner of a parrot.
The interviewee merely parroted the views of her tabloid.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Parrot
Any species of Psittacus, Chrysotis, Pionus, and other genera of the family Psittacidæ, as distinguished from the parrakeets, macaws, and lories. They have a short rounded or even tail, and often a naked space on the cheeks. The gray parrot, or jako (Psittacus erithacus) of Africa (see Jako), and the species of Amazon, or green, parrots (Chrysotis) of America, are examples. Many species, as cage birds, readily learn to imitate sounds, and to repeat words and phrases.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Parrot
Usually brightly colored zygodactyl tropical birds with short hooked beaks and the ability to mimic sounds
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Parrot
Belongs to a diverse group with over 350 species.
The Amazon rainforest is home to numerous species of parrots.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 21, 2023
Parrot
Often kept as a pet due to its intelligence and social nature.
Their pet parrot could perform tricks and solve simple puzzles.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 21, 2023
Parrot
Has a strong beak, often used for climbing and eating.
The parrot used its beak to climb up the branches with ease.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 21, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
Do cockatoos make good pets?
Cockatoos can be affectionate pets, but they require significant attention and care.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 26, 2023
What distinguishes a cockatoo's appearance?
Cockatoos are distinguished by their prominent crests and often white, grey, or pink coloring.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 26, 2023
What is the natural habitat of parrots?
Parrots are typically found in tropical and subtropical regions around the world.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 26, 2023
Can cockatoos mimic human speech?
Cockatoos can mimic sounds, including human speech, but generally not as well as some other parrot species.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 26, 2023
Are cockatoos endangered?
Some cockatoo species are endangered due to habitat loss and the pet trade.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 26, 2023
Can parrots live in colder climates?
While parrots are native to warmer climates, some can adapt to living in colder environments if cared for properly.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 26, 2023
How long do cockatoos live?
Cockatoos can have a long lifespan, often living up to 50 years or more in captivity.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 26, 2023
What kind of diet do parrots have?
Parrots generally have a varied diet including fruits, nuts, seeds, and sometimes insects.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 26, 2023
How do cockatoos communicate?
Cockatoos communicate through a variety of sounds, body language, and crest movements.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 26, 2023
Are all parrots colorful?
Most parrots are known for their vibrant colors, but this can vary widely across different species.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 26, 2023
What is the intelligence level of parrots?
Parrots are considered highly intelligent, with the ability to solve problems and mimic sounds.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 26, 2023
Are parrots social animals?
Parrots are generally very social and thrive in environments where they can interact.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 26, 2023
What are the main threats to parrots in the wild?
The main threats to parrots include habitat loss, hunting, and the pet trade.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 26, 2023
Are cockatoos louder than other parrots?
Cockatoos are known for their loud calls and can be noisier than some other parrot species.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 26, 2023
What is unique about a cockatoo's crest?
A cockatoo's crest is movable and often used to express emotions.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 26, 2023
Do all parrots talk?
Not all parrots talk; their ability to mimic speech varies by species and individual.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 26, 2023
What's the best environment for a pet parrot?
A pet parrot thrives in an enriching environment with plenty of social interaction and mental stimulation.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 26, 2023
How do parrots contribute to their ecosystems?
Parrots play a role in seed dispersal and maintaining the health of their ecosystems.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 26, 2023
Can cockatoos be trained?
Yes, cockatoos can be trained to perform tricks and follow commands.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 26, 2023
Do cockatoos have strong beaks?
Yes, cockatoos have strong, curved beaks ideal for cracking nuts and seeds.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 26, 2023
Share this page
Link for your blog / website
HTML
Link to share via messenger
About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
Shumaila Saeed
Dua Fatima
Hifza Nasir
