Colluricincla harmonica
The Grey Shrikethrush, Colluricincla harmonica, is a medium-sized passerine renowned across Australia for its robust and melodious voice. Measuring approximately 22-26 cm in length and weighing 50-70 grams, it exhibits a sturdy build, with upperparts typically grey to olive-grey and paler underparts, often with a faint wash of brown or buff. Distinctive field marks include its relatively large head, strong, slightly hooked black bill, and prominent dark eyes, contrasting subtly with its other...
Found in a wide range of habitats from dense forests and woodlands to mallee, scrub, mangroves, and even suburban gardens, generally preferring areas with ample tree cover and some understorey. Occurs from sea level up into mountain forests.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on a wide variety of invertebrates including beetles, caterpillars, spiders, and centipedes. Supplement their diet with small vertebrates such as lizards, frogs, bird eggs, and nestlings, and occasionally some fruit or seeds, primarily foraging by gleaning from ba...
Grey Shrikethrushes are largely diurnal, spending their days actively foraging for food. They are typically seen singly or in pairs, rarely forming larger flocks, and are known for their territoriality, with pairs often defending their home range year-round through song and displays. Monogamous p...
The Grey Shrikethrush is endemic and widespread throughout mainland Australia and Tasmania, absent only from the most arid interior desert regions. Its breeding range encompasses virtually all suitable habitats across the continent, from coastal areas to high-altitude forests. Four recognized sub...
Least Concern
- The Grey Shrikethrush is widely considered to possess one of the most beautiful and resonant songs in the Australian avifauna, often described as fluting and harmonious. - Despite its name, it is not closely related to true shrikes (family Laniidae) or thrushes (family Turdidae), but rather to ...