The 21 species of Cockatoos (Cacatuidae) have a mainly Australasian distribution, ranging from the Philippines and the eastern Indonesian islands of Wallacea to New Guinea, the Solomon Islands and Australia. The word cockatoo dates from the 17th century, and is a derivation from the Malay name for these birds, kakatuwah, meaning "vice" or "grip", from its strong beak, or from the call of the white cockatoo itself.

Cockatoos are instantly recognisable by their showy crests and curved bills. On average they are larger than other parrots; however, the Cockatiel, the smallest cockatoo species, is a small bird. Their plumage is generally less colourful than that of other parrots, being mainly white, grey, or black, and often with coloured features in the crest, cheeks, or tail.

Cockatoos are popular birds in aviculture, but their needs are difficult to cater for. However, the Cockatiel is much easier to keep as a pet, and is by far the most popular. White cockatoos are more commonly found in captivity than black cockatoos. Some species are threatened by the largely illegal trade in wild-caught parrots.