If you’ve ever walked under a tree and heard something that sounded like a literal Dinosaur scream, don’t panic.
That wasn’t Jurassic Park leaking into real life. That was probably a Sulphur-Crested Cockatoo having a moment. And if you happened to be vibing at the Manila Seedling Bank in the ‘90s (hello, plantita era origins), there’s a solid chance you might have met Mallows.
Mallows isn’t just some Parrot squawking on a stick. He is the moment. Raised by the legendary Rick Espiritu (bird whisperer and probably a Disney prince in a past life), Mallows is an uncaged, unbothered, feathered icon.
Let’s break it down: Who is Mallows and why do Cockatoos sound like banshees with a Bluetooth speaker?
Birb boss behavior
Mallows is a sweet Cockatoo who happens to be quite clingy. He isn’t shy about demanding what he wants. “Boss! Boss! Boss! Kakain na ko! (I’m going to eat now!)” he shrieks at mealtimes, thanks to the quick teaching skills of his human’s yaya who managed to turn a hungry Parrot into the household’s noisiest mealtime alarm.
Sulphur crests and screeches
Sulphur-Crested Cockatoos are among the most recognizable Birds in the Parrot world, with their dazzling white plumage, expressive yellow crests, and ear-piercing screeches.
Native to Australia and New Guinea, they’re known for their intelligence, strong pair bonds, and enormous personalities.
They’re truly the “catch me anywhere” type. One day, they’re in a rainforest; the next day, they’re dive-bombing picnic tables at your local park.
Feathered brainiacs
Sulphur-Crested Cockatoos are very intelligent Birds. Their intelligence isn’t just about mimicry. While they can copy human speech and sound frighteningly well, their smarts also extend to problem-solving.
These Birds learn through observation and imitation, mastering tasks like opening garbage bins (yes, with precision) and unlocking doors and windows.
Mallows, for example, picked up his iconic “Boss! Boss! Kakain na ko!” mealtime call after closely watching and listening to his human’s yaya announcing meals every day. It didn’t take long before Mallows started echoing her words — perfect timing and all.
That’s observational learning at work.
Bird drama central
In the wild, Sulphur-Crested Cockatoos are that one friend who physically cannot whisper, even in a library.
Like all Parrots, they’re certified extroverts. Ultra-social, clingy in the cutest way, and rarely seen alone. Flocks? We’re talking dozens to hundreds. If you spot one by themself, they’re either scheming something or they just got kicked out of the group chat for being too dramatic.
Their day starts with foraging together in the morning and late afternoon, whether it’s on the ground or up in the trees. And because they’re smart and organized (unlike my browser tabs), one Bird usually takes on the role of Sentinel – basically the designated chismosa on patrol.
And oh, they take turns being the lookout while the rest are eating and would scream at the first sign of danger. (They literally scream! Their calls are loud enough to ruin your eardrums and possibly your trust in peace and quiet.)
Every night, they all return to the same roosting spot like it’s a group sleepover.
The drama doesn’t stop there: These Birds are also known to be lowkey chaotic. They destroy timber, chew on anything wooden, and rearrange tree branches just for fun.
Destructive? Maybe. Entertaining? Absolutely.
High IQ, Higher Drama
Their brilliance comes with a downside. Their adaptability, size, and social behavior make them a bit… competitive.
When introduced outside their native range, Sulphur-Crested Cockatoos can outcompete local species, particularly other Parrots, for food and nesting sites.
Smart Birds can sometimes cause big problems. Still, it’s their intelligence and charm that make Cockatoos incredibly popular companions. Given enough mental stimulation, social interaction, and a proper diet, they’re trainable and affectionate, and can live for nearly a century.
The problem with know-it-alls
A similar ecological concern is unfolding with very smart Indian Ringneck Parrots, who are gradually displacing native Philippine Hanging Parrots in Metro Manila and Antipolo. With no natural predators here, their expansion poses a serious threat to local biodiversity.
Feather talk 101
Sulphur-Crested Cockatoos are impressively expressive Birds who communicate their emotions through subtle facial cues and feather positioning, particularly with their prominent yellow crests.
A raised crest might signal excitement, curiosity, agitation, or alertness, while a lowered one usually reflects calmness or comfort. These visual signals are part of how they maintain complex social dynamics within their flock.
As with many highly social species, occasional squabbles are expected. These brief clashes often serve to reinforce or establish the group’s hierarchy, deciding who gets the best perch or first access to food.
While it may seem chaotic, this behavior plays an important role in maintaining order and harmony within the flock.
They preen each other. It’s giving Avian rom-com.
Soulmates > Situationships
Yes, they mate for life. Literal soulmates.
And before you say “aww,” imagine the courtship ritual: head bobbing, crest flaring, little figure-eight head dances like they’re in a birdie mosh pit.
They preen each other. It’s giving Avian rom-com.
They breed once a year, nest in high tree hollows (sky mansions), and both parents take care of the kids. Eggs hatch in approximately 27 days, babies fledge in ~70 days, and then… they still hang out with mom and dad.
Clingy? Yes. Cute? Also yes.
What’s for lunch?
Sulphur-Crested Cockatoos are very herbivore-coded. Seeds, fruits, blossoms, nuts, and grain crops (yes, they will attack your farm).
According to Bird Conservationist, they would travel great distances to look for feeding grounds during the day and then return to the same roosting spot to spend the night. Occasionally, they feed on Insects.
In captivity, they get fresh fruit and veg, some pellets, and low-fat everything because they are at high risk for obesity. I’m talking vet-diet realness. Peanuts and sunflower seeds? Special occasions only.
This varied diet enables them to adapt successfully in urban areas.
Mallows’ fondness for nuts, especially almonds, bordered on obsession. “One almond,” Rick told us with a laugh, “and he will follow you everywhere.”
A devoted companion, Mallows preferred being near Rick, sometimes clinging closer than his other Birds. Rick was always careful to keep Mallows’ diet healthy, with daily servings of fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, squash, and sweet potato.
Quirks and care
They’re not low-maintenance. They see your household as their flock and expect to be treated as such. If you’re not emotionally or mentally available, they will let you know, loudly.
But with the right care, you won’t just have a casual companion. You’ll have a lifelong (and slightly dramatic) bestie.
Mallows’ home was a perch-filled haven. “Inside my house,” Rick said, “Mallows and my other Parrots have their own perches where my kids can touch them and talk to them anytime.”
That environment wasn’t just for enrichment — it was about love, interaction, and a lifestyle that made the Birds part of the family.
Parrot versus Cockatoo: What’s the diff?
Yes, all Cockatoos are Parrots, but not all Parrots are Cockatoos. Sulphur-Crested Cockatoos are notable for their:
- Short, square tails
- Loud vocalizations
- Unique crest feathers
- Strong social bonds
- Greater need for attention
Mental health matters, even for Cockatoos!
Like all Cockatoos, Mallows needs constant mental stimulation. Boredom and stress could lead to feather-plucking, an unfortunately common issue in understimulated Parrots.
Sulphur-Crested Cockatoos are too smart for their own good. Like escape-room solving, lock-picking, or “open the treat container when you’re not looking” kind of smart. And when they’re bored? It gets feral, fast.
Without enrichment, they go from cute to chaos. Cue the nonstop screaming (like literal hours of it), feather plucking, and shredding your furniture just because they feel like it. Not because they’re “bad Birds,” but because they have nothing better to do.
So, enrichment? Not optional. It’s essential.
What to include in your enrichment
Basically, anything that keeps their little Bird brains busy and engaged. Think chewable toys they can destroy (Wood, Cardboard, Coconut Shells — if it’s destructible, it’s a win), foraging puzzles that make them work for their treats, and lots of social time with you.
Cockatoos crave attention, drama, conversation, and change. They love interactive play (peekaboo, dancing, mimicking your laugh) and will thrive on daily training sessions. Rotate toys often (they get bored fast), and just… be present. Because honestly? You are the enrichment.
You’re not just their human. You’re their whole circus, bestie, and emotional support system.
Rick urges beginners to do their research. “Watch YouTube videos. Learn first. Because at the end of the day, your Parrot will be the one to suffer if you don’t know what you’re doing.”
Final squawk
Sulphur-Crested Cockatoos are more than just noisy Birbs with wild hairdos. They’re intelligent, emotional, fiercely loyal, and if raised with love (and patience), they can be the loudest, sassiest, most heartwarming companions you’ll ever meet.
Just remember, they’re not for the faint of heart or short of patience. But if you’re lucky, you might meet a Mallows of your own someday.
A feathered legacy
We remember Rick not just for the loving way he spoke about Mallows, but for how deeply he respected the Birds in his care. In every word he shared, it was clear: These weren’t decorative pets. They were companions. Family. Individuals.
Mallows continues to call for his “Boss,” and in that call is something bittersweet, a memory of someone who listened.
As we wait for new updates from field researchers observing Sulphur-Crested Cockatoos in the wild, where they truly belong, we hold onto the stories Rick left behind. Stories that remind us that every Bird has a voice. And every voice, when heard with compassion, has something to teach us.
Fly high, Rick. Thank you for letting us meet Mallows.
