Black-faced Woodswallow

1. Prominent black facial mask set against grey-brown plumage

2. Black tail with white tips (except central feathers), especially visible in flight

3. Blue-grey bill with a black tip

These birds are omnivorous but primarily feed on insects, including locusts during plague years. They are expert aerial hunters, often seen soaring and gliding in search of prey. Black-faced Woodswallows are communal breeders, with groups of up to six birds cooperating to build nests, incubate eggs, and feed the young. Nests are flimsy structures of twigs and grass, usually placed low in trees, stumps, or artificial sites. Breeding generally occurs from August to January, often following rain when insect food is abundant. Clutch size is typically three to four eggs, and all group members help with incubation and chick rearing.

Black-faced Woodswallows are widespread throughout mainland Australia, except for the far eastern coastal fringe. They inhabit open woodlands, shrublands, grasslands, and even cultivated or irrigated areas. Look for them perched conspicuously on high points such as dead trees, fence posts, or power lines, often in small to large flocks. They are active throughout the day, foraging on the wing or swooping down to catch insects, and are especially vocal, producing soft chiff, chap, and chattering calls.