The Chestnut-backed Quail-thrush (Cinclosoma castanotum) is neither quail nor thrush, but it does have a chestnut back! So that all makes sense. Apparently is common name - Quail-thrush - was invented in 1926, and the author of the book I rely upon for such information hints that the invention of this name may have been aided by the contents of a port decanter!
This is a ground dwelling bird that inhabits dry woodlands, often at the edges of such habitats. It will come as no surprise to regular readers that I found these birds on the edge of a small camp site / car park! The camp site was in the Hattah Kulkyne National Park in the north-west of Victoria.
It was a rather hot day when I took these pictures, and I assuming that the open beak behaviour is a kind of panting to help regulate temperature. I took to doing the same kind of thing!
As ever to join in with WBW click on the link below. SM
Despite its rather striking plumage pattern, this bird blends in with the habitat and seems almost invisible in the first photo. The wattles are an interesting feature. I wonder if they convey any survival benefit.
ReplyDeleteHari Om
ReplyDeleteWell, whatever it be called, it is a cute wee thing! YAM xx
Such a handsome bird! Interesting markings.
ReplyDeleteI discover (seen in books) and am amazed! Even well hidden in the branches it is a beautiful bird.
ReplyDeletefriendship
Hello Stewart, :=) I like the Chestnut-backed Quail-thrush's white eyebrow and moustache.
ReplyDeleteAll the best.
That is a charming and very striking bird. I appreciate your companionable and knowledgeable commentary which completes the enchantment! Please excuse me for posting a second link today. I wanted to share white tern and young!
ReplyDeleteGosh you were very fortunate to spot this bird in its natural surrounds and then to get these great shots of it. well captured Stewart. Thanks also for hosting and I hope you have a lovely week ahead
ReplyDeleteThe bird was very well camouflaged. If it had kept still I would never have spotted it.
ReplyDeleteInteresting bird, and the story behind the name is amusing.
ReplyDeleteHi Stewart, beautiful photos of this bird.
ReplyDeleteJak dawno u Ciebie nie byłam! Gdzieś mi zniknąłeś. Ja też zbyt wnikliwie nie szukałam Twojego bloga.
ReplyDeleteZdjęcia piękne, dobre! Gratuluję obserwacji!