Black-faced Cuckooshrike

The Black-faced Cuckooshrike, Coracina novaehollandiae, presents a striking figure with its contrasting plumage. Adults are adorned with a distinctive black face and throat, complemented by a soft grey back and wings, and a clean white underbelly. Their bill is somewhat hooked, and they measure between 32 and 34 centimeters in length.

Identification Tips

When identifying this species, look for the prominent black facial mask extending to the throat, the grey upperparts, and the white underparts. The hooked bill is another key feature. Their flight is graceful and buoyant, aiding in their identification from a distance.

Habitat

These birds are quite adaptable, inhabiting a variety of wooded environments across their range. They are not typically found in dense rainforests but are comfortable in urban settings, often seen perched on power lines in cities like Sydney and Perth.

Distribution

The Black-faced Cuckooshrike is native to Australia and the southern coast of New Guinea. Within Australia, it is widespread, occurring in most wooded habitats except for rainforests.

Behaviour

These birds are known for their slow and inconspicuous movements, often remaining unnoticed until their shrill, screaming call betrays their presence. They are sociable outside of the breeding season, forming flocks that can number up to a hundred. Some populations exhibit partial migratory behaviour, although it is challenging to track their movements due to the lack of significant regional differences.

Song & Calls

The call of the Black-faced Cuckooshrike is a distinctive and high-pitched 'creearck', which can be heard over long distances.

Breeding

The breeding season spans from August to February. Both sexes contribute to nest building, and the young, resembling adults save for a reduced facial mask, fledge after about three weeks.

Diet and Feeding

An omnivorous bird, the Black-faced Cuckooshrike feeds on a diet that includes insects, larvae, caterpillars, and other invertebrates, which they may catch in flight or forage for in foliage. They also consume fruits and seeds.

Conservation status

The species is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating a stable population. In Australia, it is protected under the National Parks and Wildlife Act of 1974.