Black-faced Cuckooshrike
NameBlack-faced Cuckooshrike
Common NameBlack-faced Cuckooshrike
Scientific NameCoracina novaehollandiae
FamilyCampephagidae
Wingspan (cm)45
Length (cm)33.5
Weight (g)95
Plumage DetailsAdults have a soft grey body, white belly, and a distinctive black mask covering the lores, eyes, and ear coverts. The flight feathers are black with white edges, and the tail is dark with white tips. Juveniles are duller with a less defined mask.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a distinctive, rolling 'chereer-chereer' or 'kiseek', often described as a soft, purring or churring sound, sometimes with a harsh 'shreek'.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across mainland Australia, Tasmania, and some islands, also found in parts of New Guinea and Indonesia.
Identifying FeaturesBlack face mask, Soft grey plumage, White belly, Undulating flight, Wing-shuffling upon landing
Description
A medium-sized, slender bird characterized by its soft grey plumage and a prominent black mask across its face. It moves deliberately through tree canopies, often shuffling its wings upon landing, and is a common sight in various Australian habitats.
