Sneaky Sulphur-Crested Cockatoos Master Sydney’s Drinking Fountains—New Study Sparks Awe in Animal Intelligence
Sydney’s urban cockatoos have cracked drinking fountain codes—research reveals their teamwork and street-smart survival in 2025.
• Cockatoos successfully operated water fountains in 41% of attempts
• Study tracked urban birds across Western Sydney
• Male and female cockatoos equally adept at fountain use
• Behavior spreads through social learning among flocks
Sulphur-crested cockatoos are raising eyebrows—and setting new records for bird intelligence—in Sydney’s parks. Once famous for their crafty bin-raiding tactics, these native parrots have now been caught on camera mastering public drinking fountains, twisting handles and sipping cool water on sweltering days.
A groundbreaking 2025 study, published in Biology Letters, chronicled this urban innovation. Researchers from the Max Planck Institute, Australian National University, Western Sydney University, and the University of Vienna collaborated to observe and film these adaptable birds at multiple sports fields and reserves in Western Sydney.
Teams set up motion-activated wildlife cameras and captured fascinating footage: cockatoos working handles with surprising dexterity, leveraging both feet, their bodies twisting like avian locksmiths to unlock precious water streams. In one animated scene after another, lines of cockatoos waited, demonstrating patience and social order as each took its turn to drink.
How Did Cockatoos Crack the Code?
What’s behind this smart new habit? The research reveals a mix of curiosity, problem-solving, and peer-to-peer learning—traits that have fast-tracked these cockatoos into the upper echelon of urban wildlife.
Unlike previous foraging antics (like opening wheelie bins, a trend largely led by males), both male and female cockatoos excelled at water fountain operation. Their technique was impressively coordinated: balancing on the twist-handle with one foot—usually the right—gripping the spout with the other, and using their weight to spin the valve, all while keeping a watchful eye out for their turn at the tap.
Q: Why Are Sulphur-Crested Cockatoos Thriving in Sydney?
The secret lies in their adaptability. Despite habitat loss and bustling city life, these parrots continually invent new ways to survive—and thrive. Experts say their high level of intelligence, eye for novelty, and strong social bonds make them standout city dwellers. Drinking fountain mastery is just the latest sign that cockatoos are not just surviving, but excelling in human-dominated landscapes.
How Can You Spot These Clever Birds in Action?
Early morning or late afternoon offers your best chance to catch a cockatoo flash mob at a local water fountain. Scan the edges of parks and sports fields, especially in Western Sydney. Look for flocks perched on fences, bright yellow crests glinting in the sun, each bird seemingly waiting its turn before the next ingenious twist.
Q: Could Other Bird Species Follow Suit?
Experts believe so. Cockatoo intelligence and sociability may set them apart, but urban wildlife everywhere is adapting at record speeds. As Sydney’s cockatoos pass on this watery wisdom through observation and imitation, it’s possible—and even likely—that other clever city birds will start mimicking these tactics.
Want more on urban wildlife intelligence? Dive into pages at the Audubon Society or check out avian research highlights at the RSPB.
How-To: Help Urban Birds in Your Area
- Refill bird baths and fountains in public parks where allowed
- Provide fresh water during hot spells
- Respect and observe wildlife—avoid interfering with their routines
- Report sightings of innovative behaviors to local researchers
Be part of the wild side of Sydney—head outside, keep your eyes open, and witness evolution in action. Discover just how smart and adaptable your feathered neighbors can be!
- ✔ Watch for cockatoos at local fountains, especially at dawn/dusk
- ✔ Support urban green spaces and clean water sources
- ✔ Share photos or findings with local wildlife groups
- ✔ Stay updated on animal intelligence at reliable sources like National Geographic
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