The dusky woodswallow is a bird species of forests and woodlands in temperate and subtropical regions, extending into tropical areas around the Atherton Tableland, in eastern and southern Australia. The global population of the species has as yet not been formally confirmed, but it has been officially rated in the range of 'Least Concern', according to the BirdLife International in 2004. As such, the bird could be described as common in its local habitat.
Region
Eastern and southern Australia
Typical Environment
Occupies open eucalypt forests, woodlands, and forest edges, as well as shelterbelts, roadsides, and lightly wooded farmland. Common around clearings and along riparian strips where tall perches are available. Occurs in temperate and subtropical zones, extending into tropical uplands of north-eastern Queensland. Sometimes visits urban parks with mature trees, especially outside the breeding season.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Dusky woodswallows are agile aerial insect hunters that often sally out from exposed perches to catch prey mid-air. They are highly social, frequently roosting in tight huddles pressed together on branches to conserve warmth. Southern populations tend to move northward in winter, while some northern groups remain year-round. Their presence can help control insect populations in woodland and farmland edges.
In Tasmania
Parent feeding chicks a wasp
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile sallies and brief glides
Social Behavior
Often found in small to medium flocks, perching together and engaging in communal roosting where birds cluster tightly. Pairs form during the breeding season and may receive assistance from other group members. Nests are shallow cups placed on branches or in forks, typically in eucalypts. Clutches are small, and both parents share incubation and feeding.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Calls are soft, buzzy twitters and chattering notes exchanged within groups. Song is not elaborate, consisting of short, sweet phrases and contact calls that keep the flock coordinated.
