Magpie-lark Magpie-lark

1. Males: black throat, white eyebrow, and black face; females: white throat with a black band from crown through eye to neck

2. Noticeably smaller and more slender than the Australian Magpie, with a pale, thin bill

3. Juveniles have a white throat and black eye-stripe, with dark eyes

Magpie-larks are monogamous and usually form lifelong pair bonds, defending permanent territories together. Their synchronized duet calls-where each partner alternates notes with precise timing-are a key territorial display and can sound like a single bird calling. Breeding typically occurs from August to February in southern Australia, or after rain in drier areas, with both parents building a sturdy mud nest on a horizontal branch or structure. Clutches usually contain 3–5 eggs, with both parents sharing incubation and chick-rearing duties. Outside breeding, non-breeding birds and young may form nomadic flocks. Their diet is mainly carnivorous, consisting of insects, worms, spiders, and other small invertebrates, but they may also eat some seeds. Magpie-larks are highly territorial and will defend their nests vigorously, sometimes even attacking their own reflections in windows or mirrors.

Magpie-larks are widespread across mainland Australia (rare in Tasmania and some deserts) and are also found in southern New Guinea, Timor, and Lord Howe Island. They are common in open areas with access to water, including parks, sports fields, gardens, lawns, road verges, and wetlands. These birds are often seen walking or running on the ground in pairs or small groups, confidently foraging for food.