The black-faced cuckooshrike is a common omnivorous passerine bird native to Australia and southern New Guinea. It has a protected status in New South Wales, under the National Parks and Wildlife Act, 1974.
Region
Australasia
Typical Environment
Widespread across mainland Australia and into southern New Guinea, occupying open forests, eucalypt woodlands, savannas, and tree-lined farmland. It commonly uses forest edges, riparian corridors, and urban parks and gardens. Birds often perch high in the canopy and make short sallies to catch prey among foliage or in mid-air. The species tolerates fragmented habitats and human presence but is less frequent in dense rainforest interiors.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Other
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known colloquially as the ‘blue jay’ in parts of Australia (though not a true jay), this species performs a characteristic wing-shuffling display that gives cuckooshrikes their name. It readily adapts to human-modified landscapes, frequenting parks and gardens as well as open woodlands. The species is legally protected in New South Wales under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
strong flier with undulating, buoyant flight
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or in small family groups; larger loose flocks may form outside the breeding season. Both sexes build a small, shallow stick-and-fibre cup nest placed high on exposed branches. They share incubation and chick-rearing duties and defend territories with display flights and calls.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Vocalizations include soft, rolling purrs and churring phrases, often delivered from a high perch. Calls can be metallic or buzzing and are repeated at intervals, carrying well across open woodland.
