Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoos (Calyptorhynchus funereus) are found across a wide range of Australia, from southeastern Queensland to Tasmania and westward to the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia. Historically, they primarily fed on the seeds of native trees and shrubs, such as banksias, hakeas, and casuarinas, and also extracted insect larvae from the branches of wattles. However, with the spread of large plantations of exotic Monterey Pines, these cockatoos have adapted to feeding on the seeds found in pinecones.
In South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula, the population has become reliant on the seeds of the invasive Aleppo Pine, as their natural habitat—Sugar Gum woodlands—has become heavily fragmented.
There are six species of cockatoos in Australia, and the Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo reaches 55-60 cm in length when fully grown. At first glance, the bird appears dark brown to black, but a closer look reveals striking yellow panels on its tail feathers and yellow cheek patches.
According to the State of Australia’s Birds 2015 report and regional assessments, the Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo population has seen a significant decline. However, they remain a common resident in Deep Creek National Park, which provides abundant eucalypt vegetation, and the nearby state pine plantations offer additional food sources for the local population.
Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoos have a long breeding season, which varies across their range. Both males and females participate in building the nest, which is a large tree hollow lined with wood chips. The female incubates the eggs, while the male supplies her with food. Typically, only one chick survives, staying with its parents for about six months.
