The spotted bowerbird is a sedentary, mid-sized passerine found across broad parts of the drier habitats of eastern Australia. The species is known for its remarkable behaviours, like many other bowerbirds (Ptilonorynchidae), which include bower building and decorating, courtship displays and vocal mimicry. Spotted bowerbirds are locally common, however, overall the population is thought to be in decline.
Region
Inland eastern Australia
Typical Environment
Occurs across semi-arid and dry temperate interiors of Queensland, New South Wales, and into the far northwest of Victoria. Prefers open eucalypt and acacia woodlands, mulga and brigalow, cypress-pine stands, and riparian corridors. Frequently uses ecotones and scattered paddock trees on agricultural lands, as well as town parks and gardens near water. Typically sedentary with local movements following fruiting and water availability.
Altitude Range
0–1000 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Males build avenue-style bowers and decorate them with pale or green items such as leaves, fruits, bones, and bits of glass. They are skilled vocal mimics, weaving other birds’ calls and human-made sounds into their repertoire. Although often locally common, habitat alteration and drought have contributed to regional declines.
Spotted bowerbird
Male and female birds near a bower, picture from The Birds of Australia, 1848
Bower of a spotted bowerbird
Spotted bowerbird egg
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Males maintain and defend an avenue bower used solely for courtship displays; they decorate it and perform elaborate dances. Females visit bowers to select mates, then build a cup nest in a tree and raise the young alone. Outside breeding, birds may forage loosely in small groups, especially near water or abundant fruit.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A varied mix of chatters, wheezes, and metallic notes interspersed with clear mimicry of other birds and mechanical sounds. Males vocalize frequently at bowers, using song and mimicry to attract females.
