YELLOW-TAILED BLACK COCKATOO

The Yellow-tailed black cockatoo is another notable species of black cockatoo native to south-eastern Australia.  It is a large cockatoo species, with males and females being similar in appearance. It has predominantly black plumage, and as its name suggests, it features prominent yellow markings on its tail feathers. The undersides of the wings also display vibrant yellow patches, which are visible during flight.

The Yellow-tailed black cockatoo is found in various parts of south-eastern Australia, including New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, and parts of south-eastern Queensland. They inhabit a range of forested and woodland habitats, including eucalyptus forests.

Yellow-tailed black cockatoos primarily feed on seeds from various native trees, including eucalyptus and casuarina species. They have strong beaks that allow them to extract seeds from seed pods.

These cockatoos are often seen in small to large flocks, particularly during feeding and roosting times. They are known for their distinctive and haunting calls, which can be heard from a distance. They are generally shy and wary birds.

Yellow-tailed black cockatoos nest in tree hollows, which are becoming scarce due to habitat loss and competition with other bird species. Breeding pairs form strong bonds and may mate for life.

Like many native Australian species, they face threats from habitat loss, human disturbance, and climate change.

The Yellow-tailed black cockatoo has two recognized subspecies: Zanda funerea funerea (southeastern yellow-tailed black cockatoo) and Zanda funerea xanthanota (western yellow-tailed black cockatoo).

The yellow-tailed black cockatoo is a captivating bird with its contrasting black and yellow plumage. It is highly regarded in its native range and plays an essential role in the ecosystem as a seed disperser for various plant species. Conservation efforts are vital to protect their habitats and ensure their continued survival in the wild.