Spotted Bowerbird
NameSpotted Bowerbird
Common NameSpotted Bowerbird
Scientific NameChlamydera maculata
FamilyPtilonorhynchidae
Wingspan (cm)42.5
Length (cm)28
Weight (g)150
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are dark brown, heavily spotted with buff or rufous, creating a scaly appearance. Underparts are paler, buffy-white, with dark scaling, particularly on the flanks. The crown is dark brown with fine buff spots, and males possess a distinctive, often concealed, magenta-pink nuchal crest.
Vocalization / CallTheir vocalizations are highly varied and complex, including harsh rasps, churring sounds, whistles, and remarkable mimicry of other bird calls and environmental sounds.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to Australia, the Spotted Bowerbird is found across inland eastern and northern parts of the continent, including central Queensland, New South Wales, northern South Australia, and the Northern Territory.
Identifying FeaturesBrown and buff spotted plumage, Pale underparts with dark scaling, Males have a concealed magenta-pink nuchal crest, Dark, relatively stout bill, Known for building elaborate bowers
Description
The Spotted Bowerbird is a medium-sized passerine known for its intricate brown and buff spotted plumage. Males are famous for constructing elaborate 'avenue' bowers decorated with various objects to attract females. They are generally shy but can be found in dry woodlands and sometimes near human settlements.
