Grey Shrikethrush

The Grey Shrikethrush, known scientifically as Colluricincla harmonica, is a medium-sized songbird approximately 24 cm in length. It is a modestly adorned species, lacking the vibrant hues seen in some avian counterparts. Yet, it possesses a remarkable vocal range, producing melodious tunes that rival the acoustic beauty of the lyrebirds and its relative, the Sandstone Shrikethrush.

Identification Tips

This bird can be identified by its predominantly grey plumage, which may appear unassuming at first glance. Observers should note the subtle variations in colour, with some individuals exhibiting a buff-coloured belly, aiding in their identification.

Habitat

The Grey Shrikethrush is a versatile inhabitant of various environments across Australasia. It is not found in the most arid inland deserts but thrives in a range of other landscapes.

Distribution

The species is widely distributed across most parts of Australia and also resides in New Guinea. It is considered moderately common to common in these regions. There are five recognised subspecies with different distributions: C. h. brunnea is found in northern Australia and Melville Island, C. h. superciliosa inhabits eastern New Guinea, islands in the Torres Strait, and north-eastern Australia, C. h. harmonica can be found in eastern Australia, C. h. strigata is resident to Tasmania and the islands in the Bass Strait, and C. h. rufiventris (Western Shrikethrush) can be found in western, southern, and central Australia.

Song & Calls

The bird's vocalizations are indeed its most distinguished feature, with a capacity for melodious calls that are considered unmatched in the region, save for the lyrebirds.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species has evaluated the Grey Shrikethrush as being of Least Concern, indicating that, at present, there are no immediate threats to its population numbers.