Coracina lineata
The Barred Cuckooshrike (*Coracina lineata*) is a striking medium-sized passerine, typically measuring 23-28 cm in length and weighing 55-80g. Its most distinctive feature is the finely barred white underparts, contrasting sharply with its slate-grey upperparts, dark face, and sturdy, hooked black bill. This unique barring, which gives the species its common name, extends across the breast, flanks, and vent, making it readily identifiable from other cuckooshrikes within its range. A member of...
This species thrives in tropical and subtropical rainforests, wet sclerophyll forests, and dense woodlands, typically from sea level up to 1800 meters, though most commonly below 1000 meters.
Primarily frugivorous, consuming a wide variety of fruits, particularly figs and berries, supplemented by a significant intake of insects such as caterpillars and beetles.
Barred Cuckooshrikes are diurnal, usually observed singly, in pairs, or small family units, and occasionally joining mixed-species foraging flocks during non-breeding periods. They are agile foragers, primarily gleaning fruits from branches with remarkable dexterity, often hanging upside down to ...
The Barred Cuckooshrike is widely distributed across tropical and subtropical regions of the southwestern Pacific. Its primary breeding range encompasses eastern Australia, from central Queensland south through New South Wales, extending into New Guinea (including New Britain) and throughout the ...
Least Concern
- The "barred" in its name refers to the distinctive fine black barring on its white underparts, a key identification feature. - It is a crucial seed disperser in tropical rainforest ecosystems, especially for fig trees, playing a vital role in forest regeneration. - Despite its common name, the ...