Medium-sized black-and-white predator with a white chin.
Not listed
At a glance
FamilyWoodswallows, Bellmagpies, and Allies
SizeMedium
RarityUncommon
HabitatThe black-backed butcherbird is found in Cape York Peninsula north of the Palmer River, and in the Trans-Fly region and vicinity of Port Moresby in New Guinea up to altitudes of 600 m (2000 ft).
Best timeMost reliable in Queensland from July to August.
Sounds
Sound sampleRecorded by nick talbot
Range map
Range map
268visible hotspots
3343visible records
1states
Low confidenceMediumHigh confidence
Aggregated occurance data is sourced from 14 different actively-updating datasets including eBird Australia, iNaturalist Australia, BirdLife Australia, and multiple state-based bird surveys through Atlas of Living Australia.
Species notes
Overview
Smaller than Australian Magpie, with a black head and face (remember to check for white chin), black back, black wing tips, and mostly black tail. Bill is long and pale with dark, hooked tip.
Behavior
Found on Cape York in open forests and drier areas. Voice is similar to Gray Butcherbird, with rolling chuckling notes.
Gallery
Regional timing
Queensland
Commonly confused with
Pied ButcherbirdCracticus nigrogularisAdult has black head, upper breast, back, and tail that contrast starkly with white nape, breast, belly, and wing pattern. Immature similarly patterned in brown instead of black.→Australian MagpieGymnorhina tibicenLarger than butcherbirds and differently patterned. Widespread in farmland, parks, and open woodlands, where usually seen in pairs or groups strutting on the ground. Song a memorable fluty warble.→