Aspects of the Behaviour and Ecology of the White Cockatoo ('Cacatua galerita') and Galah ('C. roseicapilla') in Croplands in North-East New South Wales

Abstract

In agricultural areas of New South Wales several species of parrots are pests to grain growing, causing damage to sunflower crops in particular. This problem was the subject of several studies by students of the University of New England. This thesis deals with the behaviour and ecology of the White Cockatoo and Galah, two of the most significant bird pests. I studied these two species for two and a half years in two areas (Swan-Vale and Wallangra) on the North-west Slopes of New South Wales. Small mixed farms predominate at Swan Vale while Wallangra is in a region of larger farms with more intensive cropping. I recorded all facets of the behaviour and ecology of the White Cockatoo, as this species has not previously been studied. Observations of the Galah were restricted to social and feeding behaviour as two previous studies have concerned this species. The individual and social behaviour of the White Cockatoo and Galah were very similar, and comparable with those of other species of Australian cockatoos and parrots. Both species were gregarious, flocking throughout the year for most daily activities. The birds fed in the early morning and late afternoon, resting in the foliage of trees during the middle of the day. At night they roosted communally under the foliage of trees at relatively permanent sites.