These are Apostlebirds (Struthidea cinerea). Their common name is probably derived from their behaviour - they are normally seen in groups, although I have never seen 12 in one place.
These birds, which seem to have an affinity to pipes and electrical cables (!), were photographed at a couple of location in the Northern Territory last year. These birds often become used to people, and these birds were no exception - the pictures were taken on a 'flower bed' outside a cafe and in a camp site.
They are comical, active birds that breed in family groups - a behaviour which I believe is more common in Australia than in any other part of the world.
The birds are about 30cm long and make a variety of calls - which I assume are group contact calls. I really liked having them around our camper van on this trip, they were fun to watch.
These birds, which seem to have an affinity to pipes and electrical cables (!), were photographed at a couple of location in the Northern Territory last year. These birds often become used to people, and these birds were no exception - the pictures were taken on a 'flower bed' outside a cafe and in a camp site.
They are comical, active birds that breed in family groups - a behaviour which I believe is more common in Australia than in any other part of the world.
The birds are about 30cm long and make a variety of calls - which I assume are group contact calls. I really liked having them around our camper van on this trip, they were fun to watch.
The conditions with Covid 19 seem to be slowly getting better here - thankfully. I will make a huge effort to resume normal service this week. Stay well and spread the word for WBW if you can. Cheers SM.
Hari OM
ReplyDeletethat is a neat bird... up here we are being faced with 'spikes' of COVID as there are attempts at returning to 'normal'... I am not going to relax for a long time yet. YAM xx
Interesting species and habits. It has an "intelligent" look about it, but of course it is easy to be anthropomorphic.
ReplyDeleteI know I asked you to link me in but because we had a storm I did not go to caravan so was able to link in myself. I have only seen a flock of these birds once in Australia but they are pretty drab in colour but have a l=wonderful ling tail. Thanks for hosting and have a good week ahead.
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear Covid is coming under control. Love that fifth photo.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful photos of a very striking bird!
ReplyDeleteAmazing the distinct variety and personalities of bird types! Another I'm glad to meet through you. Best wishes, Stewart. Stay safe.
ReplyDeleteA funny name for this bird...
ReplyDeleteAll the best, Stewart!
Another interesting bird, Stewart. It reminds me of our starlings but with a hawkish beak.
ReplyDeleteHello steward
ReplyDeleteNice photos but I think the bird looks a bit grim, maybe it didn't want to become famous
greetings Frank
I hope they don't chew on electrical cables like squirrels do! Every now and then we have a power outage due to a squirrel.
ReplyDeleteWe have seen the Apostle birds quite often when camping in the bush. They are an interesting bird to watch and seem to like being around people.
ReplyDeleteInteresting, a new bird on me. Sorry I am not keeping up with blogs or comments. Wifi slow and too much to do in the garden and the kitchen..... Keep safe, Diane
ReplyDelete