Grey ButcherbirdButcherbirds 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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