One of the most endearing and funny birds that I have encountered in my birdwatching travels in Australia is the Apostlebird. These medium- sized birds are easily recognized by their grey colour and harsh, metallic calls. There are two races within the range of this bird species in Australia which incorporates much of Queensland and New South Wales. Populations of Apostlebirds may also be seen in the Northern Territory, Victoria and South Australia.
Apostlebirds live in family groups and can be seen to do everything together, even nesting. They groups spend a lot of time foraging on the ground with their distinctive walk and tail movements. Group size can vary from only a few birds up to about thirty birds. These birds have a range of habitats which include brigalow scrubs, gardens, caravan parks, timber on watercourses, roadside shelter belts, forested paddocks and open forests. Their adaptable and boisterous nature has enabled them to utilize many man-made habitats without a care for humans. If anything, I think us humans have fallen under their spell and I know many property owners who would be quite upset if they did not see these birds especially in their gardens!
As mentioned, nesting in a communal affair with members of the group helping to build the nest, incubate eggs and feeding young ones. The nest is a distinctive mud nest placed on a horizontal branch that can vary in height. Breeding usually occurs through the Spring/Summer months. Overall, Apostlebirds are quite common throughout their range and have done well due to slightly aggressive natures and communal living arrangements. For anyone who has never seen this bird, you do not need to travel to far west before you will encounter the birds in places such as Warwick, Dalby and Stanthorpe. Watching these birds in their family groups is always a delight and it is something that I will never get tired of watching. I envy anyone who has these delightful birds in their backyards!
