Satin Bowerbird
Image: Charles Wilson (cc-by-nc)
NameSatin Bowerbird
Common NameSatin Bowerbird
Scientific NamePtilonorhynchus violaceus
FamilyPtilonorhynchidae
Wingspan (cm)48
Length (cm)30
Weight (g)200
Plumage DetailsAdult males are striking, with iridescent, glossy blue-black plumage. Females and immature males have olive-brown upperparts, a greyish-brown head, and mottled or scalloped pale grey-green to cream underparts. Both sexes possess distinctive violet-blue eyes.
Vocalization / CallSatin Bowerbirds have a diverse repertoire of calls, including harsh rasps, hisses, whistles, and an impressive ability to mimic other bird calls, animal sounds, and even human-made noises.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsrainforest, wet sclerophyll forest, woodland, suburban garden
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to eastern Australia, ranging from southeastern Queensland through New South Wales to Victoria.
Identifying FeaturesDistinct sexual dimorphism (glossy blue-black male, olive-brown mottled female/immature), Bright violet-blue eyes in both sexes, Males construct elaborate stick bowers decorated with blue objects, Medium-sized passerine with a relatively stout bill
Description
The Satin Bowerbird is a medium-sized passerine bird famous for the male's glossy blue-black plumage and elaborate bower-building behavior. Females and immature males, like the one pictured, are olive-brown with mottled underparts, blending into their forest habitat.
