Black-eared Catbird

1\. The distinctive black "ear" patch below a dark red eye.

2\. Unmistakable cat-like wailing call that gives the species its name.

3\. Emerald green upperparts with spotted pale underparts and ivory-coloured bill.

Unlike most bowerbirds, Black-eared Catbirds form monogamous pairs rather than the polygamous relationships typical of their relatives. They build cup-shaped nests of sticks rather than elaborate bowers. Both parents care for their young, bringing them fruits and insects. Their territorial nature means pairs typically occupy the same area year-round, making them reliable residents within their limited Australian range.

Black-eared Catbirds inhabit the lush rainforests of northern Cape York Peninsula in Queensland. Look for them in the middle and upper canopy of dense rainforest, especially during early morning when they're most vocal. They tend to move deliberately through the foliage, searching for fruits and insects. Though secretive, they often give away their presence with their cat-like calls.

The Black-eared Catbird has been part of the Cape York ecosystem for thousands of years. For the Indigenous peoples of far northern Queensland, the bird's distinctive calling has been woven into local knowledge systems about the rainforest. Their presence represents the ancient connection between Australia and New Guinea's ecosystems, as they're found in both regions. Recent research has found that while previously considered to be the same species as the Spotted Catbird, the Black-eared Catbird is a distinct species.