Sydney’s Sulfur-Crested Cockatoos Learn to Operate Water Fountains in Incredible Urban Survival Twist
Sydney’s clever cockatoos have stunned scientists—watch as these birds learn to twist public fountain handles for a cool drink. Urban survival redefined!
- 41% success rate: Cockatoos opened fountains for water nearly half the time.
- Dawn and dusk: Peak hours for cockatoo water runs in Sydney’s parks.
- Widespread behaviour: Both male and female cockatoos participated equally.
It seems there’s no urban riddle Sydney’s sulfur-crested cockatoos can’t solve. Already infamous for raiding bins across the city, these sharp-minded parrots are now making headlines for yet another impressive feat: learning to twist public water fountain handles to quench their thirst.
In a breakthrough study published in Biology Letters, an international team of researchers tracked these innovative birds, catching their clever antics on hidden wildlife cameras set up across Western Sydney’s parks and sports fields.
How Did Scientists Uncover This Extraordinary Behaviour?
Wildlife specialists from top institutions—including the Max Planck Institute, University of Vienna, Western Sydney University, and Australian National University—sprang into action with motion-triggered cameras. Over weeks, they meticulously filmed cockatoos as they approached drinking fountains, surveyed the mechanisms, and executed coordinated moves using both feet and their beaks to unlock water flow.
The scientists observed that nearly half the attempts were successful—an astonishing display of adaptability and problem-solving. Some birds expertly perched, gripped the rubber spout, and twisted the handle with their right foot, turning their heads just in time for a drink.
How Do Cockatoos Share Their Tricks?
Researchers noted something remarkable: this innovative drinking fountain hack didn’t stay a secret. Unlike previous food-stealing bin raids (which were mostly led by male cockatoos), both sexes confidently drank from fountains. Evidence pointed to a social learning trend—one bird would figure it out, and soon, others joined in, queuing up on fences at dawn or dusk to take their turn.
This rapid adoption mirrors the birds’ earlier exploits with bins, highlighting the role of social intelligence in urban animal communities.
What Does This Mean for Urban Wildlife in 2025?
Cities aren’t easy places for wildlife. But Sydney’s cockatoos are turning challenges into opportunities. Faced with shrinking natural habitats, these birds are thriving—adopting new, shared behaviours that help them survive in fast-paced urban environments.
Biologists consider this the first documented case of wild parrots developing a mechanical method to access water, showing a new level of cognitive flexibility. Experts say it’s a testament to how quickly animal behaviour can evolve in city settings, and that these urban cockatoos could even be pioneering a new bird tradition.
Want to see these brilliant birds in action? Catch the incredible footage on YouTube.
How Can You Help Urban Wildlife Thrive?
If you’re fascinated by crafty cockatoos, consider supporting organisations like BirdLife International or Australia Zoo that promote urban conservation. Installing bird-safe water sources and advocacy can make a world of difference for city-dwelling creatures.
Get involved in local wildlife conservation today! Here’s your urban wildlife support checklist:
- Report innovative bird behaviour to local environmental groups.
- Install bird-friendly water fountains in your community parks.
- Join or support conservation efforts, like those at BirdLife International.
- Spread the word—share stories of urban wildlife adaptation with friends and family.
Be part of the movement: Celebrate, protect, and learn from the brilliant survivors thriving in our cities!