Corcorax melanorhamphos
The White-winged Chough is a striking, large passerine bird endemic to eastern Australia, easily recognized by its entirely glossy black plumage and prominent white patches on its wings, which are particularly conspicuous in flight. Measuring approximately 45-50 cm in length and weighing between 250-400 grams, it possesses a distinctive long, slender, down-curved bill and piercing red eyes in adulthood. Taxonomically, it belongs to the family Corcoracidae, making it a close relative of the Ap...
Found primarily in open eucalypt woodlands and forests, including riparian areas, often venturing into farmlands, parks, and suburban gardens. They typically inhabit low to moderate elevations across their range.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on a wide variety of ground-dwelling invertebrates such as insect larvae, beetles, ants, and spiders. They also consume some seeds and fallen fruits, foraging by probing and gleaning from the ground.
White-winged Choughs are highly gregarious and diurnal, spending their days foraging in family groups of typically 4-20 individuals. These groups engage in elaborate cooperative breeding, with all members contributing to nest building, incubation, and chick-rearing. They forage on the ground, oft...
The White-winged Chough is endemic to eastern and southeastern Australia, with a broad distribution spanning Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, and the southeastern corner of South Australia. It is a sedentary, resident species throughout its range, exhibiting no significant migratory pattern...
Least Concern
- Despite their name, White-winged Choughs are not true choughs; they are in their own family, Corcoracidae, making them distinct from the Corvidae family where true choughs reside. - They are one of only two species in their unique Australian bird family, the other being the Apostlebird. - Their...