Grey Currawong

The Grey Currawong, Strepera versicolor, is a large passerine bird native to southern Australia and Tasmania. This crow-like species is characterized by its dark plumage with contrasting white undertail and wing patches, and yellow irises. Both sexes are similar in appearance, with an average length of 48 cm (19 in) and a heavy bill. The bird's plumage varies across its six recognized subspecies, ranging from slate-grey to sooty black.

Identification Tips

To identify the Grey Currawong, look for its large size, yellow eyes, and heavy bill. The white patches on the wings and undertail are distinctive, as is the white tip of the tail. The bird's plumage color can help distinguish between subspecies, with variations from grey to black. The bird's flight is undulating and silent, and it may be seen hopping or running on the ground.

Habitat

Grey Currawongs inhabit a variety of forested areas, including wet and dry sclerophyll forests, mallee scrubland, and open areas near forests. They can also be found in pine plantations and have adapted to parks and farmland adjacent to forested regions.

Distribution

This species is distributed across southern Australia, from the Central Coast region of New South Wales, through most of Victoria and southern South Australia, to the southwestern corner of Western Australia. The Tasmanian subspecies is endemic to the island, and there is an isolated population in central Australia.

Behaviour

The Grey Currawong is generally sedentary, although it may be a winter visitor in some southeastern areas. It is less arboreal than the Pied Currawong, spending more time foraging on the ground. The bird is often seen alone or in pairs, but may gather in larger groups when feeding. It is shyer than its relatives but can become accustomed to human presence.

Song & Calls

The Grey Currawong's call is a distinctive clinking or ringing sound, varying across subspecies. It is known for its loud, resonant calls that differ from the Pied Currawong's name-suggestive call. The bird also produces a variety of other vocalizations, including softer musical calls and insistent squawks when begging for food.

Breeding

Breeding habits are not well documented due to the inaccessibility of nests. The breeding season spans from August to December, with nests built high in trees. Clutch size ranges from one to five eggs, with color and size varying by subspecies. Both parents are involved in feeding the young.

Similar Species

The Grey Currawong can be confused with other currawongs but is distinguishable by its paler plumage, lack of white at the base of the tail, straighter bill, and distinct vocalizations. It may also be seen in mixed-species flocks with the Pied Currawong.

Diet and Feeding

An omnivorous and opportunistic feeder, the Grey Currawong's diet includes berries, invertebrates, and small vertebrates. It forages on the ground and in trees, employing various methods to capture prey. The bird has been observed using tools and techniques to access food.

Conservation Status

The Grey Currawong is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a stable population trend and a very large range. However, it has declined in some parts of its range due to habitat destruction and human impact.

In Aboriginal Mythology

The Grey Currawong features in the Dreaming story of the Kaurna people, where it is transformed into a glossy ibis by the ancestor hero Tjilbruke.