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Apostlebird |
Sightings
Apostlebirds are a common sight in the Narrabri, New South Wales, region. They are often seen foraging through foliage by the roadside in groups of around 10. They are very cunning birds that can adapt to humans around them quite easily and they can estimate speeds (of cars) with extreme accuracy.
Photos
Apostlebird coming in for a drink and a bath. While they are using the water hole (usually as a group), nobody else will normally be tolerated around; note the brown colour of the wing feathers (click on image for larger version)
Close-up view of an Apostlebird (click on image for larger version)
Portrait of a Apostlebird (click on image for larger version)
Profile of a Apostlebird (click on image for larger version)
Habits
It is astonishing that Apostlebirds are not found all over Australia, because wherever they show up they are so dominant that others steer clear of them. Amongst others, they hustle our Bantam chickens. Amongst each other Apostlebirds are very sociable, e.g. preening each other. While foraging on the ground, groups of Apostlebirds always have a sentry sitting in an elevated spot, warning the others if necessary.
Often seen by us together with Grey-crowned Babblers and also with White-winged Choughs.