You’re Such a Show Off

Pastel on Pastelmat Board (sold)

94 cm W x 64 cm H
Black cockatoos are the biggest parrots in Australia, and these Yellow-Tails have been painted life size to illustrate just how large they really are. The male (pink eye rim) is a big show off, usually dancing around during breeding season to impress his mate, bopping his head like a rock star, and fluffing up his crest. But they are also very intelligent and loving, often bringing their mate gifts of food, singing to her and preening her feathers to show his affection. The female is less than impressed, often giving him a sharp peck to bring him into line. Hence my title. They mate for life, which can be over 50 years, but sadly they breed slowly, just two eggs, of which only one survives. The chick will stay with its parents for six months before becoming independent. The adult pair will remain together for life, caring tenderly for one another, even after reproductive age has ceased. Their distinctive screech is old bush lore indicating rain is coming, and I always love seeing their huge flocks fly over our property, screaming raucously. They are one of my favourite birds.