Butcherbird Visits

The Grey Butcherbird~ Cracticus torquatus is a pretty cool and rather fearless little bird that is prepared to stand its ground and defend its territory against larger birds. Butcherbirds feed mainly on insects, but their diet may also include small mammals, reptiles and even other birds. I once observed a Butcherbird spend ten minutes or longer in an eventually unsuccessful pursuit of a Red-Whiskered Bulbul and I'm sure had it managed its quest, then things would have been grim indeed for the Bulbul (which would be the same size or even slightly larger)




This little lad or ladette hangs around here quite a bit chasing dragonflies and other insects. Took me several days to gain its confidence and get up close.