The great woodswallow, also known as the greater woodswallow, giant woodswallow or New Guinea woodswallow is a species of bird in the family Artamidae. As its name implies, it is the largest member of the genus Artamus, averaging 20 centimetres (7.87 in) in length and 61 grams (2.2 oz) in mass. In appearance the great woodswallow is very similar to the more widespread white-breasted woodswallow but can be distinguished by its darker black upper side plumage and by the presence of a semi-oval black patch below the throat.
Region
New Guinea
Typical Environment
Occurs widely in New Guinea, especially in montane and submontane zones. It frequents forest edges, secondary growth, open montane woodland, highland gardens, and village clearings. Birds often perch conspicuously on dead snags, ridgelines, or wires from which they sally to catch insects. It can be locally common where suitable open habitats adjoin forest.
Altitude Range
500–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The great woodswallow is the largest member of the genus Artamus and is endemic to New Guinea. It often roosts communally, huddling tightly together on exposed branches or utility wires. Despite the name, woodswallows are not true swallows; they are passerines adapted for aerial insect hunting. Its broad-based bill and agile flight make it an efficient hawker of flying insects.
Group preening
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
strong flier with swift sallies and brief glides
Social Behavior
Typically seen in small groups to loose flocks that perch close together and engage in communal roosting. Pairs nest in simple open nests placed on branches or tree forks, and group members may remain nearby. Highly tolerant of nearby conspecifics in open habitats.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include chattering, buzzy calls interspersed with clear whistles. Group members keep contact with soft, nasal notes, while display calls are louder and more ringing.
Plumage
Sooty to blackish upperparts with contrasting clean white belly and vent; feathers smooth and satiny. Shows a semi-oval black patch below the throat that sets it apart from similar species. The bill is pale bluish-grey with a black tip.
Diet
Feeds primarily on flying insects such as beetles, wasps, and flies, which it catches on the wing. Uses elevated perches to scan and launch quick sallies. Will also glean insects from foliage or the ground occasionally and may take small numbers of other arthropods.
Preferred Environment
Open edges of montane forest, clearings, and highland agricultural areas with scattered trees. Often hunts along ridgelines, over valleys, and above villages where updrafts concentrate flying insects.
