Watch Out, Sydney: Sulfur-Crested Cockatoos Are Now Using Public Drinking Fountains Like Pros
New study reveals Sydney’s iconic cockatoos have learned to operate public water fountains, showcasing their intelligence and adaptability.
- 41% Success: Cockatoos opened fountains and drank water in 41% of filmed attempts.
- First Time Observed: Wild parrots found using human-made fountains to hydrate.
- Dawn & Dusk: Most fountain visits happened early morning and late evening.
- Clever Collaborators: Queue of cockatoos often waited their turn for a drink.
Sydney’s sulfur-crested cockatoos have stunned scientists again—not with their notorious wheelie bin antics, but by learning how to use public drinking fountains across Western Sydney’s parks and playgrounds.
A fresh study from global research powerhouses, including the Max Planck Institute, University of Vienna, Australian National University, and Western Sydney University, has officially documented this remarkable “urban hack.” Researchers set up motion-triggered cameras across sports fields and nature reserves, capturing crafty cockatoos expertly operating water fountains to stay cool and hydrated.
How Did Cockatoos Crack the Fountain Code?
Researchers observed the birds’ nimble feet and impressive coordination. A cockatoo would grip the twist handle or valve—mostly with its right foot—while anchoring itself to the rubber spout. By lowering its weight, the bird could twist the handle clockwise, unleashing a steady stream of water. Quickly, it would dip its head for much-needed sips, especially during the morning and evening heat.
Unlike their infamous bin-opening stunts that tended to favor males, cockatoos of all sexes joined the drinking party. Sometimes, an entire queue of birds gathered around, patiently waiting their turn for a drink—a true sign of “bird etiquette” and social learning.
Q: Why Are Cockatoos Learning Urban Tricks?
The spread of this fountain-opening skill suggests powerful social learning among cockatoo communities. As the city grows and natural habitats shrink, these birds are rapidly adapting, turning ordinary city fixtures into survival tools. Their knack for innovation and problem-solving places them among the planet’s smartest birds.
How to Help Urban Wildlife Thrive
- Keep local parks and water sources clean—all species benefit.
- Report new animal behaviors to universities or wildlife groups to support urban ecology research.
- Educate others about urban biodiversity and the importance of coexisting with wildlife.
- Install bird-friendly features—like shallow troughs—on private properties.
For more about wildlife intelligence and how city animals are rising to new challenges, check out National Geographic and BBC for recent breakthroughs.
Q: What’s Next for Sydney’s Feathered Innovators?
Scientists are watching closely to see if this water trick will spread to more neighborhoods—or even to other clever bird species. With urban wildlife evolving in surprising ways, researchers believe new behavioral traditions could rapidly emerge throughout 2025 and beyond.
Already, these cockatoos are rewriting the rulebook on urban living, demonstrating that life in the city can spark remarkable animal creativity and resilience.
Ready to Spot Smart Birds in Your Neighborhood?
Stay curious and keep your cameras ready—you might catch the next great cockatoo life hack in action.
Take Action: Help protect and celebrate Sydney’s spectacular wildlife!
- Share your own wildlife observations on social media and tag local conservation groups.
- Join community birdwatching walks and support local habitat restoration.
- Educate young people about the importance of urban biodiversity.
- Keep up with the latest urban wildlife news from leading sources like ABC and University of Sydney.
Urban wildlife is evolving faster than ever—help shape a city where both people and animals can thrive!