Galah
The Galah (Cacatua roseicapilla) is one of the most beautiful parrots in the world, but somewhat taken for granted in Australia as they are so common and widespread on mainland Australia, seen mostly in permanent pairs on in very large noisy flocks. The galah has pale grey wings, back and tail with low cap-like white or pale pink crest, which is occasionally raised. The neck and body are covered in bright pink to deep rose red feathers in adults. The male's eye is brown whilst the female's is red. Immatures are paler in colour and breast feathers are washed grey.
Galahs largely frequent open, well timbered areas feeding mostly on the ground or low foliage or saltbush, shrubs and trees. They are a pest in grain districts and orchards of fruit and nut trees.
In South Australia they breed from July to December, nesting in tree hollows lined with green gum leaves and twigs. There are 2 to 5 eggs. Young galahs do not breed until 3 to 4 years old and only 10 per cent of fledgelings survive to maturity and breeding.
Galahs have strong swift flight, up to 50km/h but also a casual loose flight often tilting with deep wingbeats showing spectacular grey and pink coloured changes.
They are often seen flying over the Urrbrae Wetland and surrounding areas in small numbers or larger flocks. They are commonly found feeding in the open fields of the nearby schools, together with eastern rosellas, noisy miners and the occasional magpie. When startled they fly to safety, perching on powerlines or fences. At the nearby Brownhill Creek, they are often seen perched in tree hollows. (Contributed by Jo G and Wen-Ai.)
(13/07/2008) At Highgate (NOT AT URRBRAE WETLAND)
