Few experiences compare to the joy of welcoming a Bare Eyed Cockatoo into your life. These striking parrots — with their expressive eyes, playful personalities, and social charm — captivate bird lovers around the world. If you’re reading this, you might be on the exciting journey of searching for the perfect Bare Eyed Cockatoo parrot to bring home in England. This detailed guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding the species to finding reputable sellers, choosing a healthy bird, and preparing for long-term care.
What Is a Bare Eyed Cockatoo?
The Bare Eyed Cockatoo (also known as the Little Corella) is a medium-sized parrot native to Australia. These intelligent birds are known for:
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Personality: Playful, curious, and highly social. They thrive on attention and interaction.
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Noise Levels: Quite vocal — expect chatter, calls, and the occasional squawk. They’re not ideal for very noise‑sensitive environments.
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Color and Size: Mostly white plumage with pale blue skin around the eyes and subtle yellow tints under the wings and tail. Adults often measure around 35–40 cm (14–16 inches) from beak to tail.
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Diet: A varied diet including seeds, pellets, fresh fruits, and vegetables.
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Suitability: Best for dedicated owners who can give plenty of time, space, and mental stimulation.
For more species details and natural history, the Bare Eyed Cockatoo page on Wikipedia offers an excellent overview: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cacatua_sanguinea.
Understanding the Parrot‑Buying Landscape in England
Purchasing a Bare Eyed Cockatoo in England isn’t as simple as browsing a pet store window; it involves choosing the right source. Here’s a look at your options:
🐦 Reputable Breeders
Many experienced breeders specialise in parrots, including Bare Eyed Cockatoos. A reputable breeder will:
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Provide health certificates and vaccination records.
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Allow you to meet the bird or see it via video call.
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Answer questions about temperament, diet, and care.
You can explore available Bare Eyed Cockatoo parrots and other parrots from reputable breeders at BT Aviary https://btaviary.com — a resource known for quality and ethical standards.
🐥 Bird Shops and Aviaries
Certain bird shops and aviaries across England maintain cockatoo populations. Visiting in person lets you observe behaviour and conditions firsthand.
🏡 Adoption and Rescue
Consider adoption as a compassionate path. Parrot rescues often have birds in need of loving homes. Organisations like the RSPCA provide guidelines for adopting birds and caring for them: https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/birds.
Choosing a Healthy Bare Eyed Cockatoo
Your future companion deserves the best start. When assessing a parrot — especially when purchasing online — health and temperament are paramount.
🚩 Red Flags to Watch Out For
Be cautious if the listing or seller shows:
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Lack of clear photos or videos.
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No history of health checks or vet paperwork.
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Birds that appear lethargic, fluffed up, or with missing feathers.
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Refusal to answer basic care questions.
🤔 Questions to Ask the Breeder
Before you commit, ask:
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Has the bird received veterinary checks?
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What vaccinations or treatments has it had?
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How old is the bird, and what is its personality like?
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Has it been hand‑fed or socialised?
Their transparency will tell you a lot about their care standards.
🐣 Signs of a Healthy Cockatoo
A healthy Bare Eyed Cockatoo should:
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Be alert and responsive.
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Have bright eyes and clean feathers.
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Move smoothly without signs of pain or imbalance.
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Show interest in its environment and respond to human interaction.
Responsibilities of Bare Eyed Cockatoo Ownership
Bringing a Bare Eyed Cockatoo home is a long‑term commitment. These parrots can live 40–60 years — sometimes longer with excellent care — so thoughtful preparation is key.
🍎 Diet
A balanced diet keeps your cockatoo vibrant and healthy:
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High‑quality pellets (as a base diet).
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Fresh seeds in moderation.
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A variety of fruits and vegetables daily.
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Occasional treats like nuts or sprouted seeds.
Avoid avocado, chocolate, caffeine, and anything high in salt or sugar.
🏠 Housing
Space matters. A suitable cage should be:
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Large enough for full wing extension and activity.
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Made of non‑toxic, sturdy materials.
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Equipped with multiple perches of varying sizes.
As highly intelligent birds, Bare Eyed Cockatoos also benefit from supervised out‑of‑cage time daily.
🧠 Enrichment
Boredom can lead to behavioural issues like feather plucking or shrieking. Keep your cockatoo stimulated with:
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Puzzle toys and foraging challenges.
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Safe wood or rope toys to chew.
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Regular playtime and exploration.
🗣️ Social Interaction
These parrots bond closely with their humans. Expect to spend substantial time interacting, training, and playing — especially in the first months at home.
🧭 Lifespan Considerations
Because these birds are long‑lived, think about:
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Long‑term housing stability.
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Future travel or relocation plans.
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Who will care for your cockatoo if your life circumstances change.
Practical Tips for Bare Eyed Cockatoo Ownership in England
🐾 Local Veterinarians
Before you bring your bird home, identify an avian veterinarian in your area. Cockatoos have unique health needs, and regular check‑ups help prevent problems.
🌦️ Weather Considerations
England’s climate can be cool and wet, especially in winter months. Ensure your home maintains a warm, stable temperature for your bird. Avoid drafts and sudden swings in heat or humidity.
🚗 Transporting Your Cockatoo Home
When your new companion arrives:
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Use a secure aviary‑approved travel carrier.
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Place soft bedding and familiar toys inside.
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Keep noise to a minimum and avoid loud music.
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Monitor temperature during travel.
Gradually acclimate your cockatoo to its new surroundings — patience makes all the difference.
Final Thoughts: Is a Bare Eyed Cockatoo Right for You?
Deciding to bring a Bare Eyed Cockatoo into your life is a beautiful commitment. These remarkable birds offer affection, intelligence, and personality that can fill a home with joy — but they also ask for time, space, and dedicated care in return. Understanding their needs, choosing a trustworthy source, and preparing your lifestyle for long‑term ownership are essential steps.
Whether you’re exploring breeder options like those at BT Aviary or considering adoption, take your time to find the right fit. Armed with knowledge and kindness, you’ll be well on your way to forming a rewarding bond with your new feathered friend in England.
For more insight into parrot behaviour and care, National Geographic provides excellent articles on avian intelligence and social habits: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/birds.