The grey butcherbird (Cracticus torquatus) is a widely distributed species endemic to Australia.
Not listed
Indigenous: Garriguwin.Guwin, Guuwaaydjiidjii, Wado-Wadong, Yoy-Djedi, Debarn, Djooberan, Djooberang, Djooberin, Djoomerang, Djilkaran, Djarbren, Djarbin, Djarboorn, Djaberan, Djilerang, Dooberan, Karawong, Djoorlak
At a glance
FamilyWoodswallows, Bellmagpies, and Allies
SizeMedium
RarityCommon
HabitatIt occurs in a range of different habitats including arid, semi-arid and temperate zones.
Best timeReported across most months in New South Wales, with no narrow seasonal peak.
Sounds
Sound sampleRecorded by Mike FitzGerald
Range map
Range map
200approx hotspots
636530approx records
6states
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
Black head and face with a white nape and throat. Upperparts dark gray, with white rump, mostly black wings (limited white), and black tail with narrow white tip. Rollicking, chuckling song.
Behavior
It has a characteristic rollicking birdsong. The grey butcherbird preys on small vertebrates including other birds.
Gallery
Regional timing
Queensland
Western Australia
New South Wales
Tasmania
Victoria
South Australia
Northern Territory
Australian Capital Territory