Butcherbirds are magpie-like songbirds that are native to Australasia. The color of their plumage ranges from black-and-white to mostly black, with possibly grey plumage, depending on the species.
Butcherbirds are magpie-like songbirds that are native to Australasia. They were named for the way they store their prey — hanging captured animals on a thorn, tree fork, or crevice to support them while they are being eaten, or to store them for later consumption.
Distribution / Range
Butcherbirds occur throughout Australia, where they have adapted well to urbanization and can be found in leafy suburbs throughout
Description
Butcherbirds are mid-sized birds, measuring up to 35cm in length.
The color of their plumage ranges from black-and-white to mostly black, with possibly grey plumage, depending on the species.
The bill is large, and straight with a distinctive hook.
Breeding / Nesting
The average clutch consists of one or two eggs in a clutch. The chicks are often seen trailing behind the mother and “squeak” incessantly begging to be fed.
Diet / Feeding
Butcherbirds mostly feed on insects, but will also take small lizards and other prey. They will also accept scraps, such as mealworms or bread.
Species
- Black Butcherbird, Cracticus quote
- Grey Butcherbird, Cracticus torquatus
- Silver-backed butcherbird Cracticus argenteus (alternately a subspecies of C. torquatus)
- Hooded Butcherbird, Cracticus classics
- Tagula Butcherbird, Cracticus louisiadensis
- Black-backed Butcherbird, Cracticus mentalis
- Pied Butcherbird, Cracticus nigrogularis
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