Searching online for the perfect Bare Eyed Cockatoo in the UK can feel both exciting and overwhelming. These charming parrots, also known as Little Corellas, are gaining popularity among bird lovers who want an intelligent, affectionate companion without the overwhelming size of larger cockatoo species. Buying one online adds convenience—but it also requires knowledge, patience, and responsibility.

This in-depth guide is designed to walk you through everything you need to know about buying a Bare Eyed Cockatoo online in the UK. From understanding their personality and care needs to navigating reputable sellers and making sure your future parrot is healthy and ethically bred, you’ll find practical, real-world advice every step of the way.

Understanding the Bare Eyed Cockatoo Species

The Bare Eyed Cockatoo (Cacatua sanguinea) is a small-to-medium-sized cockatoo native to Australia. Its name comes from the distinctive pale blue-grey bare skin around its eyes, which gives the bird a uniquely expressive appearance.

Personality and Temperament

Bare Eyed Cockatoos are often described as:

  • Highly social and people-oriented

  • Playful, curious, and confident

  • Affectionate without being overly clingy

  • Intelligent problem-solvers

They enjoy interacting with their owners and can become deeply bonded when handled gently and consistently. While not as emotionally demanding as some larger cockatoos, they still need daily attention and mental stimulation.

Noise Levels

Compared to Umbrella or Moluccan cockatoos, Bare Eyed Cockatoos are:

  • Moderately vocal

  • Known for whistles, chatty sounds, and occasional loud calls

  • Less likely to scream continuously if properly enriched

That said, they are not silent birds and may not suit shared walls or noise-sensitive households.

Appearance, Size, and Colour

  • Size: Approximately 35–40 cm in length

  • Weight: Around 500–600 grams

  • Plumage: Predominantly white with subtle pinkish tones around the face

  • Distinctive feature: Blue-grey bare eye ring and a short, pale crest

Their compact size makes them easier to house than larger cockatoos, while still offering all the charm of the cockatoo family.

Diet Overview

A healthy Bare Eyed Cockatoo diet includes:

  • High-quality pellets as a staple

  • Fresh vegetables (leafy greens, carrots, peppers)

  • Limited fruit due to sugar content

  • Occasional seeds and nuts as treats

  • Fresh water changed daily

Proper nutrition plays a major role in preventing obesity, a common issue in cockatoos.

Who Are They Best Suited For?

Bare Eyed Cockatoos are ideal for:

  • Dedicated first-time cockatoo owners

  • Families with older, respectful children

  • Individuals who spend time at home

  • Owners prepared for a 40–60 year commitment

They are not ideal for people seeking a low-maintenance pet.

Buying a Bare Eyed Cockatoo Online in the UK: What to Expect

The UK parrot-buying landscape has evolved significantly, with many reputable breeders now offering online reservations, virtual viewings, and nationwide delivery.

Reputable Breeders and Aviaries

Ethical breeders focus on:

  • Hand-rearing or parent-rearing with regular human interaction

  • Proper weaning before sale

  • Full health checks and closed rings

  • Transparent communication

Many UK buyers also explore established international aviaries with proven reputations. For example, you can explore available Bare Eyed Cockatoo parrots and other species from trusted breeders through BT Aviary, a platform known for connecting buyers with responsibly bred parrots.

Bird Shops and Adoption Options

  • Specialist bird shops may occasionally have Bare Eyed Cockatoos, but availability is limited.

  • Rescue centres and adoption organisations sometimes have cockatoos in need of rehoming, though Bare Eyed Cockatoos are rarer.

The RSPCA offers guidance on responsible bird ownership and adoption considerations through its official resources:
https://www.rspca.org.uk

How to Choose a Healthy Bare Eyed Cockatoo Online

Buying online requires extra diligence. Always take your time and never rush the process.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Avoid sellers who:

  • Refuse video calls or updated photos

  • Offer unusually low prices

  • Cannot provide hatch dates or paperwork

  • Pressure you to pay quickly

  • Ship unweaned birds

A reputable breeder will welcome questions and encourage informed decisions.

Questions to Ask the Breeder

Before committing, ask:

  • Is the bird fully weaned?

  • What diet is it currently on?

  • Has it been DNA sexed?

  • Has it seen an avian vet?

  • How has it been socialised?

  • What support do you offer after purchase?

Clear, confident answers are a good sign.

Signs of a Healthy Bare Eyed Cockatoo

A healthy bird should:

  • Be alert and curious

  • Have clear eyes and clean nostrils

  • Display smooth, well-kept feathers

  • Stand evenly on both feet

  • Show interest in food and interaction

Behaviour matters as much as appearance—confidence and responsiveness are positive indicators.

Responsibilities of Bare Eyed Cockatoo Ownership

Bringing a Bare Eyed Cockatoo into your home is a long-term lifestyle commitment.

Housing Requirements

  • A large cage with ample width for wing stretching

  • Horizontal bars for climbing

  • Natural wood perches of varying diameters

  • Daily out-of-cage time in a bird-safe space

Cockatoos thrive when they can move, explore, and play.

Enrichment and Mental Stimulation

Without enrichment, cockatoos can develop behavioural problems. Provide:

  • Puzzle toys

  • Foraging opportunities

  • Chewable wood and cardboard

  • Regular toy rotation

Mental stimulation is just as important as physical space.

Social Interaction

Bare Eyed Cockatoos need:

  • Daily interaction with their human family

  • Talking, training, and gentle handling

  • Positive reinforcement-based training

Neglect can lead to screaming or feather plucking.

Lifespan Considerations

With proper care, Bare Eyed Cockatoos can live:

  • 40 to 60 years, sometimes longer

It’s essential to consider:

  • Future housing

  • Long-term finances

  • Care arrangements if your circumstances change

Practical Tips for Owning a Bare Eyed Cockatoo in the UK

Veterinary Care

Find an avian-certified veterinarian before your bird arrives. Regular health checks help catch issues early. PetMD offers helpful educational resources on parrot health and care:
https://www.petmd.com

UK Weather Considerations

  • Avoid drafts and sudden temperature changes

  • Maintain consistent indoor warmth during winter

  • Provide natural daylight or full-spectrum lighting

Cockatoos are sensitive to environmental stress.

Transporting Your Cockatoo Home

When buying online:

  • Use a breeder who offers professional bird transport

  • Ensure a secure, ventilated travel crate

  • Avoid unnecessary delays during transit

A calm, safe journey sets the tone for successful bonding.

Learning More About the Species

For deeper background on Bare Eyed Cockatoos and their natural history, you may find these authoritative resources helpful:

Final Thoughts: Is a Bare Eyed Cockatoo Right for You?

Buying a Bare Eyed Cockatoo online in the UK can be a rewarding experience when done thoughtfully and ethically. These intelligent, affectionate parrots offer companionship, entertainment, and emotional connection unlike any other pet—but they also demand time, patience, and lifelong commitment.

By choosing a reputable breeder, asking the right questions, preparing your home, and understanding what life with a cockatoo truly involves, you set yourself and your future bird up for success. If you’re ready to invest in a relationship that can span decades, a Bare Eyed Cockatoo may be the perfect feathered companion.

Take your time, do your research, and when the moment feels right, take that exciting next step toward welcoming a Bare Eyed Cockatoo into your life.