Sydney’s Cockatoos Master Public Water Fountains—And Scientists Are Stunned by Their Urban Genius
Sulfur-crested cockatoos in Sydney can now operate water fountains, revealing remarkable adaptability and social smarts, says new research.
- 41% – Cockatoo success rate in operating public water fountains in Western Sydney
- Zero gender gap – Both male and female cockatoos mastered the task equally
- Dawn & dusk – Peak hours for cockatoo water fountain visits
- First-time ever – Wild parrots documented exhibiting this behaviour
Picture a city park at sunrise. Amid the golden light, a sulfur-crested cockatoo swoops down, perches on a drinking fountain, and—using a coordinated dance of feet and beak—twists open the water handle. As water sprays, it ducks for a thirst-quenching gulp, while others wait patiently in line.
This isn’t a scene from a wildlife documentary—it’s daily reality in Western Sydney, according to eye-opening new research by the Max Planck Institute, Western Sydney University, Australian National University, and the University of Vienna.
The groundbreaking study, just published in Biology Letters, reveals that Sydney’s clever cockies are not just opening wheelie bins for snacks—they’re hacking the city’s water system with moves that would impress any human engineer.
Q: How Do Cockatoos Actually Work the Fountain?
Researchers set up motion-triggered camera traps at parks and sports fields to capture the birds in action. They observed cockatoos gripping the fountain with one foot (often the right), the spout with the other, and using their body weight to twist the handle until water flowed. Then, in a smooth motion, they dipped their beaks to drink.
Crowds of cockatoos even queued at popular fountains, patiently waiting their turn—a glimpse into their surprisingly orderly social world.
How Does This Behaviour Spread?
It’s not just a fluke: the researchers documented that this fountain-hacking behaviour is catching on across the city. The secret? Social learning. Cockatoos appear to watch each other and pick up these nifty tricks, much like humans pass down trends or life hacks.
In a boost for gender equality, both male and female birds proved equally adept at operating public fountains—a contrast to the previously male-dominated bin-opening behaviour.
Why Are Cockatoos So Good at Adapting?
Sulfur-crested cockatoos are famous for their intelligence, curiosity, and ability to solve complex problems. As cities grow, they face new challenges: less natural habitat and more competition for resources. This new research shows that rather than just surviving, they’re thriving—and inventing new city traditions along the way.
Scientists describe this as “urban innovation.” The birds’ high tolerance for novelty and keen observation skills help them exploit city life to the fullest.
Can Other Urban Animals Learn Like This?
While cockatoos are making headlines for their water fountain skills, researchers note similar adaptability in species like crows, pigeons, and raccoons. However, the cockatoos’ ability to learn and socialize such complex behaviours is virtually unmatched among wild parrots.
For more examples of animal intelligence, check out National Geographic.
How Can You Spot—and Support—These Clever Birds?
Frequent Western Sydney parks at dawn or dusk for a good chance of spotting these urban geniuses in action. Give them space, avoid feeding them, and appreciate their creativity. Urban residents can help birds thrive by preserving green spaces and installing bird-friendly fountains.
FAQ: What’s Next for Sydney’s Smartest Birds?
- Will cockatoos pass on even more city life hacks? Scientists think so—expect more innovative stunts as they adapt.
- Can other urban parrots learn similar tricks? Possibly! Experts encourage more research in other regions.
- Could this pose a problem for city infrastructure? As of now, the behaviour seems harmless and endlessly fascinating.
Witness the wonders of urban wildlife—get out and watch ingenuity in action! Can your local birds outsmart the city?
- ✔️ Visit local parks at dawn/dusk for best bird-watching.
- ✔️ Respect wildlife—observe from a distance, don’t feed the birds.
- ✔️ Stay updated on animal behaviour discoveries via BBC and Reuters.
- ✔️ Share photos and spread the word about wild city creatures’ brilliance!
References
