15 Famous Parrots with Mohawks

Parrots with mohawks have taken the bird world by storm, capturing the hearts of people all around the world with their unique and striking appearance. 

From their playful personalities to their exceptional intelligence, these birds have become beloved pets and internet sensations. 

What is Mohawk?

Mohawks are a type of hairstyle that involves shaving or cutting the hair on the sides of the head very short, leaving a strip of longer hair in the middle that stands upright. 

The strip of hair is often styled with hair gel or other products to make it stand straight up or to the side, creating a distinctive and edgy look. 

Mohawks are often associated with punk rock and other counterculture movements and have been popular among people of all ages and genders for decades. 

In the context of parrots with mohawks, the crest of feathers on their heads resembles the hairstyle and is often referred to as a “mohawk.

The History of Parrots with Mohawks

Evolution of the Crested Feathers in Parrots

The mohawk-like crest of feathers on parrots is a unique and striking physical characteristic that has fascinated people for centuries. 

While the exact history of parrots with mohawks is unclear, there are some interesting stories and theories about their origin.

One theory suggests that the mohawk-like crest of feathers evolved as a way for parrots to regulate their body temperature in hot and humid environments. 

The feathers on the crest are longer and more upright than the surrounding feathers, which allows for better airflow and ventilation around the bird’s head.

Cultural Significance

In ancient times, parrots with mohawks were considered to be symbols of royalty and wealth.

They were often kept as pets by kings and emperors, and their feathers were used to adorn ceremonial robes and headdresses.

Introduction to Europe

The first recorded instance of a parrot with a mohawk was in the 18th century when the Moluccan cockatoo was introduced to Europe. 

This striking bird, with its salmon-pink crest of feathers, quickly became a popular pet among European aristocrats.

Popularity Today

Today, parrots with mohawks remain a popular choice for pet owners and bird enthusiasts alike.

Their unique appearance, playful personalities, and high intelligence make them fascinating and entertaining companions.

Conservation Concerns

Some species of parrots with mohawks, such as the yellow-crested cockatoo, are threatened with extinction due to habitat loss and the illegal pet trade. 

It is important to protect these unique and beautiful birds and their habitats to ensure their survival.

15 Famous Parrots with Mohawks

Parrots with mohawks have become popular among pet owners and bird enthusiasts.

Some of them have even gained worldwide recognition for their unique appearance and charming personalities. 

Here are some famous parrots with mohawks along with their family, location, habitat, body size, and unique characteristics:

Einstein

Einstein is a Congo African Grey parrot with a distinctive mohawk-like crest of feathers on his head.

He gained worldwide fame for his ability to mimic human speech and has been featured on numerous television shows and in advertisements.

Family: Psittacidae
Location: Central Africa
Habitat: Forests and woodlands
Body size: 12-14 inches
Unique characteristics: Exceptional intelligence and ability to mimic human speech and sounds

Snowball

Snowball is a Moluccan cockatoo with a striking crest of white feathers on his head.

He gained viral fame for his ability to dance to pop music and has been featured on numerous news programs and social media platforms.

Family: Cacatuidae
Location: Indonesia
Habitat: Forests and woodlands
Body size: 15-20 inches
Unique characteristics: Affectionate personality and love of music and dance

Spike

Spike is a Goffin’s cockatoo with a unique mohawk-like crest of feathers on his head.

He gained fame for his mischievous personality and his love of performing tricks and entertaining his owner.

Family: Cacatuidae
Location: Indonesia
Habitat: Forests and woodlands
Body size: 12-13 inches
Unique characteristics: Playful and energetic personality, and ability to perform a wide variety of tricks and behaviors

Gizmo

Gizmo is a sulphur-crested cockatoo with a distinctive mohawk of yellow feathers on his head.

He gained fame for his role in the movie “Paulie,” which tells the story of a talking parrot on a quest to find his owner.

Family: Cacatuidae
Location: Australia
Habitat: Forests and woodlands
Body size: 16-18 inches
Unique characteristics: High intelligence and ability to learn complex behaviors and phrases

Bandit

Bandit is a rose-breasted cockatoo with a bold and striking mohawk-like crest of feathers on his head.

He gained fame for his charming personality and his ability to perform tricks such as opening doors and solving puzzles.

Family: Cacatuidae
Location: Indonesia
Habitat: Forests and woodlands
Body size: 14-16 inches
Unique characteristics: Playful and affectionate personality, and ability to learn a wide variety of behaviors and tricks

Zaza

Zaza is an umbrella cockatoo with a distinctive mohawk of white feathers on her head.

She gained viral fame for her sassy personality and her ability to mimic human speech and sounds.

Family: Cacatuidae
Location: Indonesia
Habitat: Forests and woodlands
Body size: 16-18 inches
Unique characteristics: Affectionate and playful personality, and ability to mimic human speech and sounds

Marnie

Marnie is a Goffin’s cockatoo with a unique and striking mohawk-like crest of feathers on her head.

She gained fame for her love of music and her ability to sing along with her owner.

Family: Cacatuidae

Location: Indonesia

Habitat: Forests and woodlands

Body size: 12-13 inches

Unique characteristics: Love of music and singing, and ability to learn complex behaviors and phrases

Peaches

Peaches is a rose-breasted cockatoo with a bold and striking mohawk-like crest of feathers on her head. She gained fame for her playful personality and her ability to perform a wide variety of tricks and behaviors.

Family: Cacatuidae
Location: Indonesia
Habitat: Forests and woodlands
Body size: 14-16 inches
Unique characteristics: Playful and affectionate personality, and ability to learn a wide variety of behaviors and tricks

Bailey

Bailey is a yellow-naped Amazon parrot with a distinctive mohawk-like crest of feathers on his head.

She gained fame for her ability to speak and her love of performing for her owner.

Family: Psittacidae
Location: Central and South America
Habitat: Forests and woodlands
Body size: 14-16 inches
Unique characteristics: Ability to mimic human speech and sounds, and love of performing for an audience

Jerry

Jerry is an African Grey parrot with a unique and striking mohawk-like crest of feathers on his head.

He gained fame for his ability to mimic human speech and his playful and affectionate personality.

Family: Psittacidae
Location: West and Central Africa
Habitat: Forests and woodlands
Body size: 12-14 inches
Unique characteristics: Exceptional intelligence and ability to mimic human speech and sounds

Boo

Boo is a rose-breasted cockatoo with a bold and striking mohawk-like crest of feathers on her head.

She gained fame for her love of performing and her ability to interact with her owner and other animals.

Family: Cacatuidae
Location: Indonesia
Habitat: Forests and woodlands
Body size: 14-16 inches
Unique characteristics: Playful and energetic personality, and ability to learn a wide variety of behaviors and tricks

Mango

Mango is a green-cheeked conure with a distinctive mohawk of green feathers on his head.

He gained fame for his ability to mimic human speech and his playful and affectionate personality.

Family: Psittacidae
Location: South America
Habitat: Forests and woodlands
Body size: 10-11 inches
Unique characteristics: Playful and affectionate personality, and ability to learn a wide variety of behaviors and phrases

Niblet

Niblet is a rose-breasted cockatoo with a unique and striking mohawk-like crest of feathers on her head.

She gained fame for her mischievous personality and her love of performing for her owner.

Family: Cacatuidae
Location: Indonesia
Habitat: Forests and woodlands
Body size: 14-16 inches
Unique characteristics: Playful and energetic personality, and ability to learn a wide variety of behaviors and tricks

Pip

Pip is a rose-breasted cockatoo with a distinctive mohawk of white feathers on his head.

He gained fame for his playful personality and his ability to interact with his owner and other animals

.

Family: Cacatuidae
Location: Indonesia
Habitat: Forests and woodlands
Body size: 14-16 inches
Unique characteristics: Playful and affectionate personality, and ability to learn a wide variety of behaviors and tricks

Ozzy

Ozzy is a male rose-breasted cockatoo with a striking mohawk-like crest of feathers on his head.

He gained fame for his playful and energetic personality, as well as his ability to perform a wide variety of tricks and behaviors.

Family: Cacatuidae
Location: Indonesia
Habitat: Forests and woodlands
Body size: 14-16 inches
Unique characteristics: Playful and energetic personality, and ability to learn a wide variety of behaviors and tricks

These famous parrots with mohawks have captured the hearts of people all over the world with their unique appearance and entertaining personalities.

They serve as a reminder of the beauty and intelligence of these fascinating birds and their ability to form strong bonds with their human companions.

See also Parrots: Incredible Facts Everyone Should Know

The Unique Characteristics of Parrots with Mohawks

Crest of Feathers

Parrots with mohawks have a distinctive crest of feathers on their heads that stand upright and resembles a mohawk. 

The feathers on the crest are longer and more upright than the surrounding feathers.

Bold Appearance

The mohawk-like crest of feathers gives parrots with mohawks a bold and unique appearance that sets them apart from other parrots.

Sexual Dimorphism

In some species of parrots, the mohawk-like crest of feathers is more pronounced in males than females.

This is an example of sexual dimorphism in birds.

Social Significance

In the wild, parrots use their feathers to communicate social status and hierarchy within their flocks. 

Parrots with longer and more upright feathers, such as those with mohawks, may be perceived as having a higher social status.

Affectionate Personalities

Many species of parrots with mohawks, such as the Moluccan cockatoo and the rose-breasted cockatoo, are known for their affectionate personalities and their ability to bond strongly with their owners.

Loud Vocalizations

Parrots with mohawks, particularly cockatoos, are known for their loud, vocalizations that can be heard from great distances.

Unique Behaviors

Some species of parrots with mohawks, such as the palm cockatoo, have unique behaviors such as drumming with sticks and using tools to crack open nuts.

Long Lifespan

Many species of parrots with mohawks have long lifespans, with some living up to 80 years in captivity.

This makes them long-term companions for their owners.

High Intelligence

Parrots with mohawks are highly intelligent and are known for their ability to learn words and mimic human speech.

Vulnerability

Some species of parrots with mohawks, such as the yellow-crested cockatoo, are threatened with extinction due to habitat loss and the illegal pet trade. 

It is important to protect these unique and beautiful birds and their habitats to ensure their survival.

See also 16 Facts About Parrots That’ll Make Everyone You Know Say “I Never Knew That!”

Reasons Behind the Mohawked Parrot Phenomenon

Natural Selection

As mentioned earlier, parrots with longer and more upright feathers may signal a higher level of health and fitness, making them more attractive to potential mates. 

This theory suggests that the development of the mohawk-like feather growth is a result of natural selection.

Social Hierarchy

In the wild, parrots use their feathers to establish dominance within their social hierarchy.

Parrots with longer and more upright feathers may be perceived as more dominant and therefore have a higher social status. 

This theory suggests that the development of the mohawk-like feather growth is a result of social hierarchy.

Environmental Factors

The development of longer and more upright feathers may be a result of environmental factors, such as increased exposure to sunlight or changes in temperature. 

This theory suggests that the development of the mohawk-like feather growth is influenced by environmental factors.

Genetic Mutation

A genetic mutation may be responsible for the development of longer and more upright feathers in parrots. 

This theory suggests that the development of the mohawk-like feather growth is a result of a genetic mutation.

Hybridization

The breeding of different species of parrots may result in unique physical traits, such as longer and more upright feathers. 

This theory suggests that the development of the mohawk-like feather growth is a result of hybridization.

Diet

The diet of parrots may also play a role in the development of longer and more upright feathers.

A nutrient-rich diet may promote healthy feather growth. 

This theory suggests that the development of the mohawk-like feather growth is influenced by diet.

See also 7 Best Food for African Grey Parrots

Hormonal Changes

Changes in hormone levels may trigger the development of longer and more upright feathers in parrots. 

This theory suggests that the development of the mohawk-like feather growth is a result of hormonal changes.

Selective Breeding

Breeders may intentionally select birds with longer and more upright feathers to create a more unique and attractive appearance. 

This theory suggests that the development of the mohawk-like feather growth is a result of selective breeding.

Sexual Selection

Parrots with longer and more upright feathers may be more attractive to potential mates, leading to the development of this physical trait over time. 

This theory suggests that the development of the mohawk-like feather growth is a result of sexual selection.

See also Birds That Mate For Life: Which birds pair for life?

Geographic Isolation

Geographic isolation may lead to the development of unique physical traits in different populations of parrots, such as longer and more upright feathers in parrots from certain regions.

This theory suggests that the development of the mohawk-like feather growth is influenced by geographic isolation.

Caring for Parrots with Mohawks: Tips and Advice

If you are considering adding a parrot with a mohawk to your family, it is important to understand that these birds require specialized care to ensure their health and happiness. 

Here are some tips and advice for caring for parrots with mohawks:

Diet

Parrots with mohawks require a balanced diet that includes a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, grains, and high-quality pelleted food. 

Avoid feeding your bird foods that are high in fat, salt, and sugar, as these can lead to health problems such as obesity and heart disease.

Exercise

Parrots with mohawks are active and intelligent birds that require plenty of mental and physical stimulation to stay healthy and happy. 

Make sure your bird has plenty of toys, perches, and other forms of enrichment to keep them entertained and engaged.

Grooming

Regular grooming is important for parrots with mohawks to keep their feathers clean and healthy. 

They should be given regular baths and their feathers should be trimmed as needed to prevent them from becoming too long and cumbersome.

Socialization

Parrots with mohawks are highly social birds that require plenty of interaction and attention from their owners. 

Make sure you have plenty of time to spend with your bird each day and consider getting a second bird as a companion if you are unable to provide the socialization they need.

Veterinary Care

Regular veterinary care is essential for keeping parrots with mohawks healthy. 

They should have regular check-ups and be screened for common health problems such as beak and feather disease and psittacosis.

Cage Size and Placement

Parrots with mohawks require a large and spacious cage that allows them to move around freely and stretch their wings. 

The cage should be placed in a quiet and low-traffic area of the house to minimize stress and provide a sense of security.

By following these tips and advice, you can provide your parrot with a mohawk with the care and attention they need to thrive and live a happy and healthy life.

FAQs

What is the name of the parrot with a mohawk?

The parrot with a mohawk is called a Red-masked Parakeet.

What is the white bird with a mohawk called?

The white bird with a mohawk is called a Cockatoo.

What type of bird has a red mohawk?

The bird with a red mohawk is called a Red-crowned Crane.

What kind of bird has an orange mohawk?

The bird with an orange mohawk is called an Orange-bellied Parrot.

What bird has a black mohawk?

The bird with a black mohawk is called a Black Currawong.

What is a green bird with a red mohawk?

The bird with a green body and red mohawk is called a Rainbow Lorikeet.

What is a rainbow bird with a mohawk?

The rainbow bird with a mohawk is called a Rainbow Lorikeet.

What bird has a yellow mohawk?

The bird with a yellow mohawk is called a Yellow-fronted Canary.

Parrots with mohawks are truly unique and fascinating creatures. Their striking appearance, playful personalities, and exceptional intelligence make them popular pets and beloved members of many families. 

From the famous parrots with mohawks that have gained worldwide recognition to the countless others that bring joy and companionship to their owners, these birds are a testament to the incredible diversity and beauty of the natural world. 

Whether you are a longtime bird enthusiast or just starting to learn about these amazing creatures, parrots with mohawks are sure to capture your heart and leave you in awe of their many talents and remarkable qualities.

Julian Goldie - Owner of ChiperBirds.com

Julian Goldie

I'm a bird enthusiast and creator of Chipper Birds, a blog sharing my experience caring for birds. I've traveled the world bird watching and I'm committed to helping others with bird care. Contact me at [email protected] for assistance.