Masked Woodswallow

The Masked Woodswallow (Artamus personatus) is a common, gregarious bird known for its nomadic lifestyle, often seen in large flocks. This species is one of the few passerines adorned with powder down throughout its plumage, a feature that adds a unique texture to its appearance.

Identification Tips

Adult males of the Masked Woodswallow can be identified by their distinctive black face mask with a pale edge, covering the lores, ear coverts, chin, and throat. They have dark blue-grey upperparts and a white-tipped tail, with a pale grey underbody that fades to greyish white on the under tail coverts. Their legs and feet range from grey to black. Adult females are similar but slightly browner, with a less distinct mask. Juveniles resemble adult females but are browner with buff mottling.

Habitat

The Masked Woodswallow favors open forests, woodlands, heaths, and roadside tree belts. It is often found in arid and semi-arid zones.

Distribution

This species is widespread across mainland Australia, with less frequent sightings in coastal and near-coastal areas. It has also been recorded as a vagrant in Tasmania, New Zealand, Norfolk Island, and Lord Howe Island.

Behaviour

Masked Woodswallows are highly nomadic, moving in large flocks that may include the White-browed Woodswallow. They exhibit no ecological segregation with their close relatives but do not engage in cooperative breeding.

Breeding

Masked Woodswallows are exclusive pair breeders. They breed throughout most of their range, except for the eastern and southeastern coastal areas and regions north of latitude 20°. Breeding typically occurs in spring and summer, with the frequency of once or occasionally twice a year. Their nests are similar to those of the White-breasted Woodswallow but less substantial, often located one to two meters above the ground. The nests are shallow, frail bowls made from twigs and grass, with both sexes contributing to the construction. The eggs of the Masked Woodswallow are pale greyish white to pale greenish grey or light creamy brown, measuring about 22mm x 17mm. They are usually laid in clutches of 2-3, though 1-4 eggs have been recorded.

Similar Species

The Masked Woodswallow is similar in size to the White-browed Woodswallow, and the two species can be found in the same flocks. However, the Masked Woodswallow can be distinguished by its unique facial mask and the coloration differences between sexes.

Diet and Feeding

Primarily insectivorous, the Masked Woodswallow captures its prey by hawking or pouncing. It also supplements its diet with nectar and occasionally consumes fruit.

Conservation status

The Masked Woodswallow is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that it currently faces no significant threats to its population.