Great Woodswallow

The Great Woodswallow, known scientifically as Artamus maximus, stands as the largest member of its genus. This bird, also referred to as the Greater Woodswallow, Giant Woodswallow, or New Guinea Woodswallow, boasts an average length of 20 centimeters and a mass of 61 grams. Its plumage is characterized by a darker black on the upper side, and it features a distinctive semi-oval black patch situated below the throat.

Identification Tips

To distinguish the Great Woodswallow from its relative, the White-breasted Woodswallow, one should note the darker black plumage on its upper parts and the unique black patch below its throat.

Habitat

This species thrives in tropical moist montane forests, often found in clearings with dead trees, particularly dead emergents towering above the primary rainforest canopy.

Distribution

The Great Woodswallow is a native inhabitant of New Guinea, where it has adapted remarkably well to human-altered landscapes. It is notably prevalent near Highland towns such as Mount Hagen and Goroka.

Behaviour

A fast-flying aerial insectivore, the Great Woodswallow feeds primarily on large flying insects. It is recognized as the smallest bird that routinely soars on updrafts over vast distances. However, it also employs its feet to handle its insect prey. Social by nature, these birds fly in flocks of up to twenty and exhibit nomadic tendencies within their montane forest habitat. They engage in allopreening, a social grooming behavior, on small posts for extended periods.

Breeding

Breeding season for the Great Woodswallow typically spans from August to December. Their nests are constructed as flat platforms of grass or twigs within tree holes or stumps, positioned higher than those of other species in the genus. They practice cooperative breeding, with young adults often staying with their parents for several years to assist in raising offspring.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Great Woodswallow consists chiefly of large flying insects, which they capture in flight or manipulate with their feet.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List classifies the Great Woodswallow as Least Concern, indicating that the species does not currently face any significant threats to its survival.