The Glossy Black Cockatoo Project

Early in 2024 I approached the Panboola committee with the idea of creating and sponsoring a Glossy Black Cockatoo habitat at Panboola. I was pleased to hear that the committee were 100% onboard, which is very exciting news!

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The Glossy Black Cockatoo has a very specialised diet, relying almost exclusively on the seeds of 'she-oak' or Casuarina, particularly those from the genus Allocasuarina. This dependence on a specific food source makes their survival closely tied to the availability of these trees, and they have a limited habitat.

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Cockatoos are highly selective feeders, often foraging in the same tree for extended periods until the supply is exhausted. Casuarina seeds are relatively small, so the birds need to consume a large number of them each day to meet their nutritional requirements. Glossies can travel several kilometres daily in search of suitable feeding sites.

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As you probably know, the 2020 fires destroyed large swathes of forest in surrounding areas, but by some miracle, the Pambula Merimbula area escaped much of the damage, so our local Glossies are OK - for now.  However, we could be us more susceptible to future fires, as we still have a heavy fuel load.

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Aside from the doom and gloom aspect, how wonderful would it be to have a stopping point for the gorgeous birds in our own backyard, where people of all ages can appreciate their unique character and beauty?  They have a gentle nature and like most of our Cockatoo species, are not particularly shy, making them a delight to observe.

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The plant growing team at Panboola are already on the job with Casuarina seedlings underway, and now it's my turn to do to some fundraising for interpretive signage so people can learn more about Glossies.  Plus a seat or two, a picnic table - maybe even a sculpture to add to Panboola's impressive art collection - if I can raise enough funds 🤞

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$10 from every tour and coaching session goes towards "The Glossy Project".

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