Sydney’s Clever Cockatoos Now Use Public Fountains—New Study Captures Their Ingenious Urban Tricks
New research reveals Sydney’s sulfur-crested cockatoos operate public water fountains—see how these urban geniuses adapt to city life.
- 41%: Success rate of cockatoos activating water fountains
- 3+ Universities: Research collaboration across Australia and Europe
- Dawn & Dusk: Peak times for parrot water runs
- Both Genders: Male and female cockatoos master the skill
Sydney’s cities already know these wild sulfur-crested cockatoos as unstoppable bin-burglars. But now, they’ve moved from raiding rubbish to mastering fresh hydration: turning the handles of public drinking fountains for a cool urban drink.
A fresh 2025 study from the Max Planck Institute, University of Vienna, Western Sydney University, and Australian National University, published in Biology Letters, has captured how these savvy birds outsmart city infrastructure. Local researchers deployed motion-activated cameras across Western Sydney parks, tracking cockatoo populations as they twisted and pecked their way to a thirsty victory.
The study reveals that in 41% of their attempts, these birds manage to activate the water flow, balancing their bodies and using deft footwork more commonly seen in circus performers than wild birds. Cockatoos have adapted a complex ballet—gripping the twist-handle with one foot, clutching the bubbler with the other, and leveraging their bodyweight to trigger the water. The cleverest twist? The skill rapidly spreads through the flock—a case of city-savvy social learning.
For more on animal ingenuity, visit National Geographic or catch other avian marvels at Audubon.
Q: How Did Cockatoos Learn This Genius Urban Hack?
Researchers noticed a remarkable pattern: not just a one-off, but a widespread behaviour through Western Sydney’s cockatoo gangs. The fountain-tapping trick appears to be passed along by observation—like toddlers copying older siblings. Unlike bin-raiding, which was mostly a boys’ club, both female and male cockatoos have become fountain aficionados, waiting patiently in queue at dawn and dusk.
Q: What Makes Sulfur-Crested Cockatoos Thrive in Urban Environments?
These parrots combine a knack for novelty with natural curiosity and intelligence. Strong social bonds let them share discoveries quickly. Facing challenges like habitat loss, cockatoos flip adversity into opportunity, turning city parks and sports fields into communal meeting spots—and now, self-service hydration stations.
How-To: Spot the Sydney Fountain-Tapping Parrot in Action
- Look near public parks or sports fields, especially at sunrise or sunset.
- Find water fountains surrounded by feathered spectators—a queue is a sure giveaway.
- Watch for the unique two-footed grip and a sudden head-turn for a quick drink.
- Respect their space—urban wildlife observations are best from a distance.
Want to glimpse this urban marvel in motion? Check out this fascinating video footage.
Q: Are Cockatoos the Only City Birds That Adapt This Way?
While other urban birds pick up tricks (from stealing fries to opening milk bottles), parrots show unparalleled creativity and cultural transmission. According to global ornithology studies, few wild bird populations innovate and share skills this rapidly—especially with complex mechanical challenges.
How Will This Research Impact Urban Wildlife Planning?
As cities grow, designing animal-friendly amenities could ease wildlife stress and foster coexistence. Researchers argue that observing urban cockatoos’ resourcefulness offers lessons for architects and wildlife managers—for example, considering animal access to water in urban planning, a trend poised to grow in 2025 and beyond.
Don’t Miss Out—Urban Wildlife is Changing Fast!
Action Checklist:
- Watch for clever birds on your next stroll in Sydney parks
- Share your own urban wildlife sightings on social media
- Learn more about bird behaviour at BirdLife International
- Advocate for animal-friendly urban design in your city
Explore, observe, and help shape the next wave of wildlife-friendly cities!
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