Sneaky, Thirsty, and Brilliant: Sydney’s Cockatoos Are Now Turning On Public Fountains for a Sip
Sydney’s sulfur-crested cockatoos are taking the internet by storm as new research shows their astonishing knack for unlocking public drinking fountains.
- 41% Success Rate: Cockatoos turned on fountains in nearly half of observed attempts.
- First Recorded: It’s the first time wild parrots have shown this level of inventive drinking behavior.
- Social Learners: Cockatoos learn the fountain trick by watching each other.
- Dawn & Dusk: Most visits happen at sunrise and sunset.
A new flock of urban innovators is turning heads in Western Sydney parks. Sulfur-crested cockatoos, famed for their bin-raiding antics, have pulled off their cleverest stunt yet—learning how to operate public drinking fountains to beat the heat.
Scientists from leading institutions including the Max Planck Institute and Australian National University spent weeks tracking these feathered masterminds. Using motion-activated wildlife cameras, they watched in awe as cockatoos teamed up, twisted handles with their feet, and got a refreshing gulp.
This isn’t their first urban feat. Previously, researchers marveled at the cockatoos’ teamwork as they pried open wheelie bins for a free meal. Now, their fountain-fiddling behavior has become the latest viral sensation, with footage flooding social media and catching the attention of animal lovers worldwide.
Q: How Did Cockatoos Learn to Use Public Drinking Fountains?
The birds perfected a clever workaround: placing a foot (often the right one) on the twist-handle, gripping the bubbler with the other, and then using their body weight to turn the valve. Sometimes, a whole flock would gather and watch, setting up a queue for their turn.
This teamwork suggests cockatoos are fast learners, picking up tricks by copying one another—a behavior known as social learning. The lead researchers believe this innovation is now a budding tradition, spreading through Sydney’s cockatoo population like wildfire.
Why Are Urban Cockatoos So Successful?
Sulfur-crested cockatoos are thriving where other species struggle. Unlike more timid birds, these parrots embrace change and rapidly adapt to city life. Whether cracking bins for food or fountains for water, their actions showcase a stunning ability to solve problems, persist despite obstacles, and even teach each other novel skills.
Researchers found both male and female cockatoos took part equally in the fountain fun, in contrast to their very male-driven bin raids. This evolution in behavior, driven by necessity, shows their remarkable flexibility and community spirit.
How You Can Help Urban Wildlife Thrive
Wondering how to coexist with these clever city dwellers? Here’s how you can support urban wildlife like Sydney’s cockatoos:
- Keep parks clean and safe for wild visitors.
- Report injured or distressed wildlife to local authorities or organizations like WIRES.
- Share innovative animal behavior on social media to support conservation awareness.
What’s Next for Sydney’s Urban Birds?
Experts predict that 2025 will see even more examples of animal innovation as city wildlife adapts to urban challenges. With rising temperatures and urban sprawl, look out for new stories of resilience from Australia’s boldest birds—and perhaps even more inventive tricks.
Join the movement—watch, share, and celebrate urban wildlife! Spot a clever bird? Follow this checklist:
- Take a clear video or photo—use your phone’s zoom to avoid disturbing wildlife.
- Tag your sightings with #SydneyCockatoos or #UrbanWildlife on social media.
- Share sightings with local conservation groups like BirdLife Australia.
- Encourage friends and family to respect and support local animals.
Urban life is changing fast—and Sydney’s cockatoos just proved they’re ahead of the curve. Keep your eyes on the skies (and water fountains)!