Romantic Cockatoos Woo Their Lovers

Male palm cockatoos in remote parts of Australia and New Guinea put on an elaborate show to attract female mates. They whistle, make calls, blush their cheeks, erect their crests, and dance on branches. The grand finale is when they cut off a big tree branch, whittle it down, and start drumming. Each bird has its own preferred drumstick and drumming style, recognized by conservation biologist Rob Hindstone. These displays demonstrate the male's intelligence and creativity, impressing the females.