How to Identify Male and Female Sulphur Crested Cockatoo?

The gender identification of Sulphur Crested cockatoos can be challenging as both males and females look alike; both genders have white plumage with yellow crest, under-wing, and tail feathers. But there are other ways to identify their gender. 

Sulphur Crested cockatoo males and females can be identified from their eyes, beaks, and behavior. Moreover, DNA sexing can be performed for accurate results.  

Now let’s talk about how you can identify them.

Physical Differences

Despite the resemblance between males and females, there are certain differences in their appearance. (1)

Feathers

The feathers of male cockatoos are more scattered and shinny than females.

Size

The male is generally bigger than the female. Its size is 44 to 55 cm, and the female’s size is 44 to 51cm.

Eyes

The male Sulphur Crested cockatoos have dark black eyes whereas the females have red-blackish eyes.

Beak

Males have bigger and darker beaks than females.

Pelvic Bones

Male Sulphur Crested cockatoos have close and pointy pelvic bones. The females have soft, rounded, and distant pelvic bones.

Vocal Differences

The male Sulphur Crested cockatoos have very harsh vocals. Their noise becomes unbearable when they scream. Females also have rough and shrill sounds, but males have more harsh vocals.

Furthermore, males are more talkative than females.

Behavioral Differences

Aggression

The female Sulphur Crested Cockatoos are usually humble and have gentle nature. Whereas males are generally aggressive. However, the females also get aggressive during breeding season as they experience hormonal changes.

Mating

During the mating ritual, the female cockatoo bends her back and lifts her head and tail; making it easier for the male to jump on her and mate.

Aside from the physical, vocal and behavioral differences, Sulphur Crested cockatoos can be sexed through DNA testing.

Identification of Gender By DNA Sexing:

The DNA test of a Sulphur Crested cockatoo is performed using a sample of their feather, toenail, or blood. The DNA sexing labs assess this sample to determine the gender.

Among all the methods of sexing cockatoos, DNA sexing is the most efficient and reliable method. Moreover, you can remotely get a DNA sexing test of your cockatoo; all you need is a sampling kit, take the sample, and ship it to the lab. Generally, DNA sexing a Sulphur Crested cockatoo costs $17-25 in the USA.

Conclusion

The gender of a Sulphur Crested Cockatoos can be identified through observation as both genders have certain differences in their physique, behavior, and vocals. However, the most accurate method of sexing is performing a DNA test.