Spotted Catbird

1\. Emerald-green plumage with extensive pale spotting and distinctive black spot below the red eye

2\. Unmistakable cat-like "meeoww" call that echoes through the rainforest

3\. Strong ivory-coloured bill with slightly hooked tip contrasting with the dusky face

Unlike most bowerbirds, Spotted Catbirds form monogamous pairs and don't build elaborate bowers. They breed from August to March, constructing bulky cup nests in saplings or climbing vines. Both parents care for their young, and they're known to cache fruits in niches for later consumption, showing food-storing behaviour.

Spotted Catbirds inhabit the rainforests of the Wet Tropics around Cairns in northern Queensland. Look for them in the middle to upper story of the rainforest canopy, especially around fruiting trees. Dawn and dusk are prime spotting times when they're most vocal. They typically move in pairs or small family groups, methodically searching for food among the foliage.

The Spotted Catbird is native to Australia's tropical rainforests. Until recently, it was considered part of the same species as the Black-eared Catbird, but scientists have now recognized them as separate species. The Spotted Catbird is entirely restricted to Australia, while the Black-eared Catbird occupies southern New Guinea and northernmost Queensland, highlighting the unique biodiversity of Australia's tropical north.