Satin Bowerbird
NameSatin Bowerbird
Common NameSatin Bowerbird
Scientific NamePtilonorhynchus violaceus
FamilyPtilonorhynchidae
Wingspan (cm)48
Length (cm)30
Weight (g)200
Plumage DetailsAdult males have glossy, iridescent blue-black plumage with bright violet-blue eyes. Females are duller, with greenish-brown upperparts, paler underparts with a scalloped pattern, and blue eyes. Juveniles resemble females.
Vocalization / CallSatin Bowerbirds have a wide repertoire of calls, including harsh rasps, hisses, and a variety of whistles. They are also excellent mimics, imitating other bird calls, animal sounds, and even human-made noises.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsrainforest, eucalyptus forest, woodland, gardens
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in eastern Australia, from southeastern Queensland through New South Wales to Victoria.
Identifying Featuresglossy blue-black plumage (male), violet-blue eyes, bower-building behavior, collection of blue objects around bower
Description
The Satin Bowerbird is renowned for the male's elaborate bower-building and decoration with blue objects to attract mates. Males display striking iridescent blue-black plumage, contrasting with the duller green-brown females.
