Cockatoo cheek feathers—do they indicate a specific mood?

[Kassiani]

I’ve always been curious about this. When a cockatoo moves their cheek feathers over their beak, is that a relaxed, angry or scared reaction?

 

[Toy]

It usually means they are relaxed & content.

 

[Kassiani]

Thanks, Toy! I've not been around many cockatoos, so I've always wondered.

 

[scrape]

I love it when they do the head-and-cheek-fluff, but the crest is down. So cute!

 

[cassiesdad]

Definitely relaxed and content.
Milton does it when he's nestled next to my face...

 

[Tanya]

Yep. Can confirm relaxed contentment

 

[Kiwi & Co.]

The tiels do it too! (They’re technically the smallest cockatoo species )

 

[JLcribber]

Muffin chops
.

 

[SeñorBirb]

The tiels do it too! (They’re technically the smallest cockatoo species )

View attachment 378268

Yeah, I wondered if it was the same for tiels. Your's are adorable, so is the budgie!

 

[faislaq]

I love it when the girls have their mutton chops!


(Luv Bug is starting to put hers down because I have incurred her wrath by taking a picture, but they're still a little fluffy from her snooze.)

 

[faislaq]

Muffin chops
. View attachment 378314

Amanda is always so beautiful!

 

[melissasparrots]

It usually means relaxed and content. Although, sometimes it means they are trying to hide their aggressive intentions and will bite if you give them the chance. You have to look at the rest of the body language. I can't really describe how to tell the difference. Its a subtle point, but you learn to read them quickly if you pay attention.

 

[sunnysmom]

It usually means relaxed and content. Although, sometimes it means they are trying to hide their aggressive intentions and will bite if you give them the chance. You have to look at the rest of the body language. I can't really describe how to tell the difference. Its a subtle point, but you learn to read them quickly if you pay attention.

Or else, right? LOL. I agree, if you pay attention, I think cockatoos are pretty easy to read.