Some animals have big personalities, and others have big opinions. In the case of Sweet Pea, a beloved pet Cockatoo and social media favorite, it’s clear she has both. Her most recent viral moment? A dramatic attempt to avoid a butterfly, which has charmed viewers across platforms. The video, originally shared by her owner on TikTok, shows Sweet Pea reacting with visible discomfort to the unexpected presence of a butterfly, offering a funny and surprisingly relatable moment for anyone who’s ever been spooked by something small and fluttery. For those who follow adorable animal antics or are simply curious about Cockatoo behavior, this clip is impossible to resist. It also highlights the unique quirks that make companion birds such fascinating pets.
@theparrotlady Cockatoo vs small butterfly 😂 #cockatoo #parrot #butterfly #reaction #birdlife #funnyanimals ♬ Welp, Didn’t Expect That – Yu-Peng Chen & HOYO-MiX
The original post, published on July 15, 2025, reports that Sweet Pea’s owner—known online as The Parrot Lady—captured the moment on July 12. In the video, Sweet Pea tries to hide when a butterfly comes near, much to her owner’s amusement. While many might assume a bird would be indifferent or even intrigued by another winged creature, Sweet Pea’s response was a clear “no, thank you.” According to the article, her stiff posture and wide-eyed stare into the camera added to the comedic effect. I found this detail striking because it so vividly illustrates how expressive birds can be, often in ways that mirror human reactions.
Sweet Pea’s reputation as a social and affectionate companion makes her aversion to butterflies even more entertaining. The article notes that she’s known for being friendly with everyone from house guests to the family dog, and she’s even been seen playfully engaging with her bird siblings. Butterflies, however, appear to be her one firm boundary. The author humorously speculates that while Sweet Pea doesn’t want to harm the butterfly, she certainly doesn’t want to befriend it either.
From a behavioral perspective, this reaction is not entirely surprising. Even though Cockatoos are birds and technically capable of flight, their personalities and preferences are shaped by both their species traits and their individual experiences. In the wild, Cockatoos are omnivorous and may occasionally consume insects, including butterflies, if necessary. However, as the article rightly points out, pet birds like Sweet Pea should never be allowed to eat wild insects due to potential exposure to pesticides or parasites. Instead, bird-safe options like mealworms or crickets can be offered in moderation, along with small portions of cooked, unseasoned meats like chicken.
Sweet Pea’s butterfly aversion also offers a glimpse into how domesticated birds differ from their wild counterparts. While a wild Cockatoo might not hesitate to investigate or even snack on a butterfly, a pet bird raised in a human household may find such encounters foreign or unsettling. This divergence underscores the importance of understanding the instincts and comfort zones of companion animals. Just because an animal is capable of a behavior doesn’t mean it will choose to engage in it—especially when it has learned that food comes from a bowl, not from chasing insects.
Beyond the laughs, Sweet Pea’s moment of vulnerability resonates with many viewers. The author of the original article shares a personal reflection about being similarly wary of butterflies and moths, describing their wings as “papery” and their bodies as “thin and awkward.” This shared unease adds a layer of relatability to the video and may help explain why it struck such a chord online. While butterflies are often associated with beauty and transformation, they can also trigger discomfort for some—humans and birds alike.
Sweet Pea’s online popularity continues to grow, in part because of her expressive reactions and in part because of the way her owner captures and shares them. The article describes her as a bird who knows what she wants and isn’t afraid to show it. Whether she’s scheming with the family dog, challenging her fellow birds, or simply enjoying a quiet moment, Sweet Pea offers a window into the rich emotional lives of parrots. Her butterfly avoidance may be unusual, but it’s also a reminder that animals, like people, have their own likes and dislikes.
For pet owners and animal lovers, this story is a charming example of how even the smallest interactions can reveal big personalities. It also serves as a gentle prompt to respect the comfort zones of our pets. Not every bird wants to befriend a butterfly, and that’s perfectly okay. Sweet Pea’s preferences may be quirky, but they’re also part of what makes her so endearing to her growing fan base.
To see Sweet Pea’s butterfly encounter and more of her delightful antics, viewers can visit her TikTok page via The Parrot Lady. Whether you’re a seasoned bird enthusiast or simply in need of a smile, her videos are sure to brighten your day—just don’t bring any butterflies.
