Superb Lyrebird
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Fir0002" title="User:Fir0002">Fir0002</a> (GFDL 1.2)
NameSuperb Lyrebird
Common NameSuperb Lyrebird
Scientific NameMenura novaehollandiae
FamilyMenuridae
Wingspan (cm)75
Length (cm)90
Weight (g)900
Plumage DetailsMales have a dark grey-brown body with rufous-brown wings and a spectacular tail, which includes two long, lyre-shaped outer feathers, two wire-like central feathers, and twelve lacy, filamentary feathers. Females are similar in body plumage but lack the elaborate tail.
Vocalization / CallRenowned for its complex and varied vocalizations, including highly accurate mimicry of other bird calls, animal sounds, and even human-made noises. Its own song is a rich medley of these imitations.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatswet sclerophyll forest, rainforest, dense scrub, eucalypt forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to southeastern Australia, found in the temperate and subtropical forests of New South Wales, Victoria, and southeastern Queensland.
Identifying Featureselaborate lyre-shaped tail (males), superb vocal mimicry, large, ground-dwelling bird, strong legs and feet for scratching
Description
This large, ground-dwelling passerine is famous for the male's elaborate tail feathers and its extraordinary vocal mimicry. It primarily forages in dense forest undergrowth, scratching through leaf litter for food.
