Friends of Fred Caterson Reserve

EASTERN WHIPBIRD

Adult Eastern Whipbirds are mostly dark olive-green above, with a long tail, and a grey-white belly. The head and breast are black, with a broad white patch on the side of the face and a black crest. Their appearance is distinctive. Young whip birds are generally duller, with a smaller crest and initially no white cheek patch.

The range of the Eastern Whipbird is from northern Queensland to Victoria along the coastal band of eastern Australia. Eastern Whipbirds live in wet habitats, eucalypt forest and dense scrub near watercourses, in dense vegetation near the ground. It is known to inhabit parts of Fred Caterson Reserve.

The Eastern Whipbird feeds on insects and other small invertebrates, which are caught on the ground. Feeding on the ground and choosing to nest near the ground, they can be vulnerable to attack from unrestrained cats and dogs.

To see them, search for the habitats they prefer and listen for their distinctive call. The birds are secretive and well camouflaged, but can be curious, and will be seen if you remain patient and quiet.

Did you know? The Whipbird’s long whip call, one of the most characteristic sounds of the Australian bush, is actually performed as a duet. The male makes the drawn out whip crack and the female usually follows quickly with a sharp "choo-choo".

Information provided by BirdLife Southern NSW in conjunction with BirdLife Australia's Birds in Backyards Program.

Photos provided by Ákos Lumnitzer

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