Australian Bustard

1. Tall stature with upright, "snooty" posture and head held high

2. Black crown with white eyebrow and long grey neck

3. Distinctive spread and upturned wing feathers when in flight

Male Australian Bustards perform one of Australia's most dramatic courtship displays during breeding season (October to December), inflating their throat sacs to produce a loud roaring noise while strutting with tails cocked high. Females lay just 1-2 eggs on the ground or amongst low sandy ridges well-camouflaged but positioned where she can watch for predators.

Look for Australian Bustards across the inland and tropical north of mainland Australia, where they inhabit dry plains, grasslands, and open woodlands. They're most easily spotted in early morning or late afternoon when feeding in open areas. These birds are typically found on the ground, either alone or in small groups, slowly strutting through open country. After rainfall or fires, they may gather in larger numbers to feast on emerging insects. Drive slowly along outback roads and scan open areas, their tall profile makes them stand out even at a distance.

The Australian Bustard has long been part of Australia's landscape and features in many Indigenous stories, songs, and ceremonies and is a part of some communities such as the Martu people in Western Australia.