Also called Rose-breasted cockatoo, Roseate cockatoo, Pink and grey cockatoo, Galah cockatoo
SpeciesShort profile
From Australia. Originally a bird of the semi-arid and arid interior, it now lives across most of the mainland in woodland, grassland, farmland and city parks, and has reached Tasmania and New Zealand.12
Feathered; medium cockatoo with a short, mobile crest
A mid-sized cockatoo in soft rose-pink and silver-grey. The face, neck and underparts are deep pink, the short crest is a paler pink or whitish, and the back and wings are pale grey. The beak is a pale bone colour. Adult males usually have very dark brown eyes, while females have mid-brown to reddish eyes.21
An intelligent, playful and outgoing cockatoo that is comfortable around people. It is a real flock bird that wants plenty of company, and it can learn to copy a wide variety of sounds and words. It does best with a keeper who has time for daily interaction.3
Daily activity how busy a day looks
High. Galahs enjoy swings, toys and chewing, and benefit from daily out-of-cage time and foraging so they can search for food as they would on the ground in the wild.342
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Like other cockatoos it produces powder down, so regular baths or showers help keep the feathers in good shape. Offer safe wood and toys to chew and shred.4
Home where they are happiest
A roomy, strongly built cage with daily time out, or better still an aviary; the World Parrot Trust suggests an aviary at least 7 m long. LafeberVet gives cockatoo cage bar spacing of 1.3-1.9 cm and perches 1.9-5 cm across depending on species.24
Food basics what goes in the bowl
In the wild it feeds mostly on the ground on grass and grain seeds, with buds, berries and insect larvae. At home, use a quality pellet as the base with vegetables, some fruit and a measured amount of seed, rather than seed alone.124
Company who they like around
Highly sociable. Wild galahs gather in flocks from ten to around a thousand birds, and a pet needs daily company and attention.23
The story where it all began
Vieillot gave the galah its scientific name in 1817, and it now sits alone in its own genus. The common name comes from 'gilaa', a word from the Yuwaalaraay and neighbouring Aboriginal languages of north-western New South Wales. Farming and new water sources helped it spread widely across Australia, where it is now one of the most familiar parrots.21
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
The galah is one of the few parrots whose wild population has grown rather than shrunk, helped by extra food from farming.1
2
In Australian slang, calling someone a 'galah' means they are acting like a clown or a fool.2
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Galah?
Provide fresh food and water every day. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests offering fresh food and water daily. Always follow the food label and your vet for exact amounts. Pet Wiki plan
What does a Galah eat, and what should it never eat?
A Galah eats quality pellets, vegetables, fruit, and a measured amount of seed. The provided information does not list foods to avoid; please ask your vet for a safe list.124
How much space does a Galah need?
A Galah needs a roomy, strongly built cage with daily out-of-cage time, or ideally an aviary at least 7 meters long. Provide plenty of toys and perches. Furry Diary's plan includes about 2 hours out of cage daily.24Pet Wiki plan
What temperature, light or water does a Galah need?
The provided information does not specify exact temperature or light requirements. For water, offer fresh water daily. Consult your vet or a good breeder for ideal temperature and lighting conditions.
How often should I clean a Galah's home?
Furry Diary's starting plan suggests changing the cage liner every two days and doing a full clean once a week. Offer a bath or shower every three days to help with feather care. Pet Wiki plan
Can a Galah live with others?
Yes, Galahs are highly sociable and thrive with daily company. They can live with other birds if introduced carefully, but always supervise. They need plenty of attention from you.23
How long does a Galah live?
A Galah can live between 25 and 72 years, with proper care. This is a long-term commitment.123
Can I handle a Galah?
Yes, Galahs are comfortable around people and enjoy daily interaction. With gentle handling and trust-building, they can be handled. Always respect their mood.3
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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