- Struthidea cinerea
Identification
The Apostlebird of the family Grallinidae is a grey-bodied Australian bird averaging 13 inches (33 centimeters) in length. It is characterized by brown wings, a black tail with a glossy green shine, black legs, and a black, stubby bill. The name Apostlebird is derived from the mistaken belief that the birds tend to live in groups of 12 to 13, like the 12 Biblical apostles of Jesus. [1]
Distribution
North, east, and south Australia. Highly nomadic.
Taxonomy
Two subspecies are recognized: cinerea and dalyi. The only close relative of the Apostlebird is the White-winged Chough.
Habitat
Woodlands near water, farmlands with trees, roadsides, orchards and golf courses.
Behaviour
The diet includes insects and seeds.
They form a breeding unit' of about ten related birds - a dominant male and several females plus immature birds who act as helpers. They build large mud bowl nest, reinforced and lined with grass. All the group help to build the nest building and to feed the nestlings. More than one female may lay eggs in the same nest. [2]
