Animals can be quite expressive when it comes to visiting the veterinarian. They often show their disapproval in various ways. Meet Max, a cockatoo, who was told in advance about his upcoming vet visit and immediately threw a tantrum. His hilarious reaction was caught on video for all to enjoy.
The video begins with Max speaking in a deep, flustered voice and backing himself into a corner next to a shelf. He ruffles his feathers and releases a throaty cry, as if arguing with his owner. It’s like watching a child throw a tantrum and argue with their parent – it’s simply entertaining to witness.
Max even ducks under the bottom shelf as if he’s hiding away, all the while muttering in his low voice and disobeying his owner’s instructions. But don’t worry, this seemingly odd behavior is just how cockatoos communicate. They are unable to mimic human words like parrots do.
Did you know that a cockatoo’s mood can be understood by the position of their crest? If their crest is raised, they are excited, alert, or agitated. If it’s lowered, the bird is feeling submissive or moving around. A relaxed crest indicates that the bird is content, resting, or eating.
In Max’s case, his crest is initially raised, clearly indicating that he does not want to go to the vet. However, in another shot, after he comes out from under the shelf, his tone and crest change. He squawks in a higher pitch and his crest lowers. It’s as if he is expressing his dissatisfaction but also understanding that he must go to the vet.
The showdown continues with Max throwing a major tantrum. But eventually, his owner sternly calls him by his name, and Max appears to calm down a bit, with his crest lowered. It’s interesting to see how a bird owner and their pet communicate when words aren’t possible. Max needed to get something off his chest and explain why he was unhappy, but now he’s ready to make up and go see the veterinarian.
What did you think of Max’s tantrum? How would you react if a bird talked back to you like this?
