From Opus

This article is incomplete. This article is missing one or more sections. You can help the BirdForum Opus by expanding it.

Eolophus roseicapilla

Photo by mehdhalaouate
Photographed: Canberra, Australia

Alternative Names: Rose-breasted Cockatoo, particularly in aviculture. 

[edit] Identification

The Galah (35cm) is an unmistakable cockatoo with a rose pink head, breast and underparts, and a grey back, wings and tail. The short crest is white to pink depending on subspecies. The sexes are similar, however can be distinguished on eye colour, or eye colour and eye ring (depending on the subspecies). Females have a red iris/red iris and red eye ring, while males have a grey eye ring and dark brown iris.

[edit] Distribution

The species is widespread over Australia, to which it is endemic. It is absent only from the most arid zones of the continent, and the far north of Cape York. Their distribution appears to have greatly expanded since European settlement, as it has benefited from the planting of crops and the provision of stock watering points in dry areas.

[edit] Taxonomy

Three subspecies are recognized: roseicapilla, kuhli, and albiceps. There has been some controversy over the taxonomy of Galahs; they are generally placed in the monotypic genus Eolophus, but has historically been placed in genus Cacatua.

[edit] Habitat

Open woodland, riverine woodland, agricultural districts and human settlements.

[edit] Behaviour

[edit] External Links

• View more images of this species on the ABID