Glossy Black Cockatoos

Yesterday, I took the mountain bike out along one of the trails behind our house. Just after entering the national park, there is a small section of rain forest with casuarina trees dotted about.

I was very excited to see three Glossy Black Cockatoos. These birds, whilst not on endangered lists, are regarded as rare as the sightings must be reported to the National Parks and Wildlife service.

They are an interesting bird, feeding on casuarina, and if so are easily approached. Should they fly off, the do so with low swooping action, and a distinct "Caw" Caw" cry. They generally only fly to an adjacent tree. A splash of distinct red on their tale feathers. Also help with the identification.

I was delighted to see three as it indicated that one was a juvenile. Glossy Blacks are rare as the nest in hollows of trees. Sadly our domestic honey bee also like these hollows. generally moving in and stinging the young when they hatch. As the parents only lay one of two eggs, the failure rate can be very high indeed. Not only this but other pressures. Research was done in South Australia and when the Honey bees were removed from an area, the Glossy Black population increased.

These are one of my favorite birds.