During the day stands or sits under small trees/shrubs, often in small groups.
VIC: Endangered; WA: Rare; NT: Critically Endangered
Indigenous: Guwilu, Gurlambijbij, Wuruyan, Wuuyan, Guwelewu, Milbay, Gwelu, Guwerluh, Guminda, A-Gurluwitjjbitjj, Ngarug, Gurabi, Gurrubœrlah, Gumioga, Guwirlu
At a glance
FamilyThick-knees
SizeSmall
RarityCommon
HabitatThe species is found in open forest, eucalyptus woodland, rainforest edges, grassy plains, arid scrubland, and along inland watercourses.
Best timeReported across most months in Queensland, with no narrow seasonal peak.
Sounds
Sound sampleRecorded by Étienne Leroy
Range map
Range map
2481visible hotspots
89550visible records
5states
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
When disturbed will lie down and flatten neck to the ground. In cities like Darwin, Cairns, Brisbane it is relatively common in parks, open grounds, camping grounds. More common across northern Australia.
Behavior
At night becomes active and wanders around calling its wonderful eerie wailing cry.
Gallery
Regional timing
Western Australia
New South Wales
Queensland
Northern Territory
Victoria
South Australia
Australian Capital Territory