Australian Magpie With their striking black-and-white plumage, it is no wonder they are a favourite mascot of numerous footy teams and other organisations. Their carolling, even late at night, is one of the most Australian of sounds, and they are regarded as one of the best songbirds in the world. Both sexes sing and often do so together (carolling) or by taking turns (duetting). They can have a substantial repertoire which includes mimics of other birds and animals found in their territory. Sometimes they will sing for long periods on their own… Continue reading
Major Mitchell’s Cockatoo Named after one of Australia’s first explorers of the inland, the Major Mitchell’s Cockatoo is much less raucous than its Sulphur-crested cousin. Its plumage features delicate shades of pink as well as a colourful crest, making this species one of the more attractive cockatoos. It spends much of its day feeding on the ground with other cockatoos (though usually separate from them) or in trees or shrubs. A denizen of the inland, Major Mitchell’s Cockatoos live in arid and semi-arid regions of Australia, where they generally inhabit wooded habitats. They… Continue reading