Ground Cuckooshrike
NameGround Cuckooshrike
Common NameGround Cuckooshrike
Scientific NameCoracina maxima
FamilyCampephagidae
Wingspan (cm)47.5
Length (cm)35
Weight (g)125
Plumage DetailsThe head, neck, and upper breast are pale grey, contrasting with a black back and wings. The lower breast and belly are white with prominent fine, dark barring. It has a distinctive white eye-ring and a long, black tail.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a loud, ringing 'chiew-chiew' or 'kew-kew' call, often given in flight or from a prominent perch. It can also produce chattering or whistling notes.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to mainland Australia, widespread across much of the interior and eastern parts, preferring drier, open country and avoiding dense forests and extreme deserts.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size for a cuckooshrike, Pale grey head and breast with black back and wings, Fine dark barring on white belly, Prominent white eye-ring, Long, black tail, Terrestrial foraging behavior
Description
The Ground Cuckooshrike is a large, striking Australian bird known for its terrestrial foraging habits. It has a distinctive grey, black, and white plumage with fine barring on its underparts. This species is often seen walking on the ground in open woodlands and grasslands.
