Red-vented cockatoo

The red-vented cockatoo, also known as the Philippine cockatoo, is a critically endangered bird native to the Philippines. This bird is easily identified by its distinctive red feathers around the vent area. Comparable in size to the Tanimbar corella, it features predominantly white plumage with red undertail coverts, a yellowish undertail, and pale yellow underwings. The red-vented cockatoo is known for its characteristic bleating calls, supplemented by the screeching and whistling sounds typical of cockatoos.

Historically, red-vented cockatoos were widespread across the Philippines. Sadly, their numbers have dramatically declined due to illegal trapping for the pet trade, habitat destruction, and hunting. Organizations such as the Katala Foundation are diligently working to protect the remaining birds, most of which are now predominantly found in Palawan. Despite these efforts, new threats like the proposed construction of a coal-fired power plant are compounding conservation challenges.

These cockatoos are social creatures that consume a diet of seeds, fruits, flowers, buds, and nectar. They occasionally feed on crops such as rice and corn, which has led to their reputation as agricultural pests. During the breeding season, pairs of red-vented cockatoos separate from the flock to nest.

Despite ongoing conservation efforts and breeding programs, the red-vented cockatoo remains critically endangered. Current estimates suggest that there are fewer than 1,000 of these striking birds left in the wild.