Pied Butcherbird

1. The complete white collar that fully encircles the neck between the black head and back.

2. Listen for their exquisite, flute-like melody – often described as one of Australia's most beautiful bird songs.

3. Slightly larger size and more distinct markings than the Grey Butcherbird, with a complete black head.

Pied Butcherbirds live in family groups where older siblings help raise younger birds. Breeding seasons vary across Australia (May-November in the north, August-November in the south). The female builds the nest and incubates, while males and other family members bring her food. Their complex social structure includes cooperative hunting where family members work together to catch prey.

Pied Butcherbirds inhabit most of mainland Australia except the southern and southeastern coastlines and very arid inland areas. Look for them perched prominently on tall trees, fence posts, or power poles in open woodlands and even suburban parks. Dawn and dusk offer prime listening opportunities, though they may sing throughout the day and sometimes on moonlit nights. They often return to favourite singing perches, so listen for their distinctive melody first, then scan exposed branches. They're more common in drier forests and woodland edges.