Distribution Map
Black-faced Cuckooshrike
Coracina novaehollandiae
NativeStatus
CommonRarity
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Species Description
The Black-faced Cuckooshrike is one of Australia's most widespread birds, easily identified by its black facial mask set against smooth gray plumage. This medium-sized bird is known for its graceful, wave-like flight pattern, which alternates between flapping and gliding.
Fun Facts
Despite their name, they are not related to cuckoos or shrikesthe name comes from their resemblance to these groups.
1. Black facial mask extending from the forehead to the upper chest against gray plumage.
2. Wing-shuffling behaviour after landing.
3. Undulating flight pattern alternating between flapping and gliding.
Southern populations of the Black-faced Cuckooshrike migrate north during winter, reaching as far as New Guinea and Indonesia. They breed from August to February, constructing small nests high in tree forks using twigs and bark bound with cobwebs. Both parents share responsibilities for nest building, incubating eggs, and raising chicks.
Black-faced Cuckooshrikes are found across most of Australia in woodlands, farmland with scattered trees, and suburban parks with mature vegetation. They are often seen perched on exposed branches or telegraph poles, surveying their surroundings before swooping down to catch insects. Their soft "creearck" call often reveals their presence before they are spotted.
Physical Attributes
Height
33 cm
Size Relative to Other Birds71%
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