Eastern Whipbird

Overview

The eastern whipbird (Psophodes olivaceus) is an insectivorous passerine bird native to the east coast of Australia. It is a shy species that is heard much more often than seen, primarily inhabiting wet temperate forests in the east of the country.

Identification

• Slim bird measuring 26–30 cm in length and weighing 47–72 grams.
• Plumage is olive green with a black head and breast, featuring a small black crest and a distinctive white cheek-patch.
• Long dark olive-green tail tipped with white, with a black bill, blackish feet, and brown iris.
• Song consists of a long note followed by a 'whip crack' and subsequent notes, often performed as a duet between the male and female.

Habitat

Found in wet temperate forests, including both rainforests and wet sclerophyll forests, generally near water. The range extends from eastern Victoria north through to central Queensland, with a northern subspecies inhabiting the wet tropics of North Queensland from Cooktown to Townsville.

Diet

The eastern whipbird is insectivorous, recovering insects from leaf litter on the forest floor.

Did you know?

The bird's distinctive call has been featured in numerous films, including Bush Christmas (1983) and The Dark Crystal (1982).