Eolophus roseicapilla - Galah

The Galah – Eolophus roseicapilla (Vieillot, 1817) – belongs to the Eolophus genus, which is closely related to the Cacatua genus, where most cockatoos belong. Previously the Galah was included in the Cacatua genus (classified as Cacatua roseicapilla) but recent studies has moved it to the monotypic Eolophus genus and Cacatua now only contains the white cockatoos.

The Galah is widespread across most of Australia with millions of individuals, but among breeders outside Australia it is more rare as there is an export ban. They are often a little more expensive than the more common yellow crested cockatoos. However, they are often easier to breed in captivity.

Young birds are easy to tame and can also learn to imitate words or short sentences. Older birds will be harder to tame and will often be shy.

The Galah is often very curious and always busy; don’t expect them to sit still and cuddle for a long time – this is in contrast to some of the white cockatoos that love attention and cuddling. Like most cockatoos they form a very close and lifelong bond with their mate.

In captivity a Galah can be up to 70-80 years old with proper care and a healthy diet; the lifespan of wild birds however is usually below 20 years.

Galah is listed on CITES Appendix II and EU Annex B.