Research by the Australian National University has revealed the wild-sulphur crested cockatoos learn what foods are safe to eat by watching each other – a discovery that helps explain how the species thrives in rapidly changing urban environments.

In a large scale field experiment, scientists studied more than 700 wild cockatoos, training only four birds to eat colourful almonds from feeding stations.

Within just 10 days, hundreds of other birds adopted the new food, but only in locations where trained individuals were present.

ANU researcher Dr Lucy Aplin said the findings highlight how social learning underpins the species’ success in urban environments.

“It’s not just about being in the same place — it’s about who you associate with,” Dr Aplin said. 

“These social connections are what drive how new behaviours spread.” 

Researchers also observed cockatoos developing different techniques to crack open almonds, with these behaviours spreading through social groups. 

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