The Brookfield Zoo Cockatoo, named Cookie, was a Major Mitchell’s cockatoo who lived at Brookfield Zoo in Illinois. Cookie’s remarkable life spanned over eight decades, making him the oldest living parrot in the world at the time of his passing.
Life and Age
Birth and Arrival
Cookie was born on June 30, 1933, at Taronga Zoo in Sydney, Australia. He arrived at Brookfield Zoo in 1934, at the tender age of 1 year old.
Longevity
Cookie lived to be an astounding 83 years old, significantly exceeding the average lifespan of his species, which is typically 40-60 years in captivity.
Passing
Cookie passed away on August 27, 2016, due to a sudden decline in his health. His long and vibrant life was a testament to the exceptional care he received at Brookfield Zoo.
Health and Care
Medical Conditions
Despite his advanced age, Cookie suffered from common age-related ailments, including osteoporosis, arthritis, and cataracts. The dedicated zoo staff provided him with specialized diets, vitamins, and medications to manage these conditions and ensure his comfort.
Retirement
In 2009, Cookie was retired from public display and moved to the keepers’ office to reduce stress and improve his health. However, he still made occasional appearances for special events, delighting his many fans.
Popularity and Legacy
Celebrity Status
Cookie’s longevity earned him the distinction of being certified by Guinness World Records as the oldest living parrot in 2014. He was known for his charismatic personality and had a large fan base, receiving cards, letters, and gifts from around the world.
Annual Birthday Celebrations
Brookfield Zoo held annual birthday parties for Cookie, which included a grand entrance, singing “Happy Birthday,” and a special cake made with carrots, apples, bananas, raisins, and eggs.
Memorial Statue
In 2017, a life-size bronze statue of Cookie was unveiled outside the Reptiles and Birds exhibit where he resided. The statue is accompanied by a plaque commemorating his remarkable life.
Interesting Facts
Unique Personality
Cookie was known for his loud, screechy voice and would often interrupt conversations. He would also say his own name repeatedly to draw attention, showcasing his engaging and lively personality.
Artistic Tribute
In 2020, a poetry collection titled “Cookie the Cockatoo: Everything Changes” was published in honor of this remarkable bird.
Contact Information
If you’d like to learn more about the Brookfield Zoo Cockatoo, Cookie, or plan a visit to the Brookfield Zoo, you can contact:
Brookfield Zoo
8400 31st Street
Brookfield, Illinois
CZS.org
Sondra Katzen, Director of Public Relations
708-688-8351
[email protected]
References:
– Brookfield Zoo. (2016). Chicago Zoological Society Saddened by Loss of Oldest Animal Resident at Brookfield Zoo: Cookie Cockatoo. Retrieved from https://www.brookfieldzoo.org/Brookfield-Zoo/About-%282%29/Press-Room/Press-room-old/2016-Press-Releases/Brookfield-Zoo-Saddened-by-Loss-of-Oldest-Animal-R
– Chicago Tribune. (2016). Cookie the Cockatoo at Brookfield Zoo dies. Retrieved from https://www.chicagotribune.com/2016/08/29/cookie-the-cockatoo-at-brookfield-zoo-dies/
– Brookfield Zoo. (2017). Cookie Cockatoo Statue Unveiled. Retrieved from https://www.brookfieldzoo.org/cookiestatue
– YouTube. (2016). Farewell, Cookie. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tGNtfsBZ3qs
– Wikipedia. (n.d.). Cookie (cockatoo). Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cookie_%28cockatoo%29