Probosciger aterrimus aterrimus

(Gmelin, 1788)

Vernacular names
English : Palm cockatoo
French : Cacatoès noir

Classification
Class : Aves
Order : Psittaciformes
Family : Cacatuidae
Notes : 3 other subspecies known.

Identification
Largest cockatoo species, reaching a length of 64 cm for a weight of 1 kg. Plumage entirely dark slaty grey. Huge black bill with extra large upper mandible. Very long crest with medium-thin feathers. Bright red bare skin on cheeks.

Range and habitat
The species is found in New Guinea and nearby islands and north Queensland. Subspecies occurs on Misool and Aru islands. Lives in forests, woodlands and densely wooded savannas, up to 1150 meters.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Appendix I
Status : The species is locally common but has suffered declines because of habitat loss and, particularly, intense trapping for the international trade.
Ex-Situ Programs : SSP in America, EEP in Europe

Observation

 

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