Great Bowerbird
NameGreat Bowerbird
Common NameGreat Bowerbird
Scientific NameChlamydera nuchalis
FamilyPtilonorhynchidae
Wingspan (cm)51.5
Length (cm)36
Weight (g)210
Plumage DetailsPredominantly grey-brown plumage, paler on the underparts. The back and wings display a distinctive scalloped pattern of darker brown feathers edged with lighter grey or white. Males possess a nuchal (nape) crest of pinkish-purple feathers, which is usually concealed but erected during courtship displays.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a wide range of vocalizations, including harsh rasps, churring, hissing, and remarkable mimicry of other birds, animals, and even human-made sounds from its environment.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban, coastal, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to northern Australia, found across the tropical and subtropical regions from Western Australia through the Northern Territory to Queensland.
Identifying FeaturesLarge, grey-brown plumage with scalloped back and wing pattern, Males have a concealed pinkish-purple nuchal crest, Builds elaborate 'avenue' bowers decorated with white, grey, and green objects, Known for its extensive vocal mimicry
Description
The Great Bowerbird is a large, grey-brown bowerbird famous for the elaborate 'avenue' bowers constructed by males to attract mates. These bowers are meticulously decorated with white, grey, and green objects collected from the environment.
