​The Great Cocky Count (GCC) is a citizen-science survey, and the biggest single survey for black-cockatoos in Western Australia. It is co-ordinated by Birdlife Australia and has been running since 2010. Initially focusing on Carnaby's Black Cockatoos in the Perth-Peel region it has now spread across regional WA and includes the 2 other species, Baudin's and Forest Red-Tailed Black Cockatoos.

In the lead-up to the GCC each year, Birdlife ask people to keep an eye out for roost sites, which helps them plan the upcoming GCC. Then, on one evening each autumn, volunteers monitor known roost sites and count black-cockatoos as they arrive in the evening. Records submitted from across south-western WA provide a snapshot of black-cockatoo populations, helping scientist quantify changes in their numbers and plan conservation efforts.

In preparation for the 2026 Count Birdlife Australia and the Oyster Harbour Catchment Group are hosting an informative workshop, the only one in the Great Southern, to learn about these iconic birds and how to get involved in the Count, either through lodging a roost site or volunteering to Count. This workshop is free and a complimentary afternoon tea is provided. Families are welcome.
The Count itself will occur on the 12th April 2026. To find out more:

https://birdlife.org.au/events/great-cocky-count/?srsltid=AfmBOooDXpndT-n5LumtLqkWWKDQDM6-glLKGIFTVn2FfsySgxo_vxLr