The Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike is one of East Gippsland’s most distinctive and widespread birds, easily recognised by its white underparts, blue-grey back, wings and tail, and striking black face and throat. Despite their name, cuckoo-shrikes are neither true cuckoos nor shrikes; the name reflects their cuckoo-like feather patterns and shrike-like beak shape.
These adaptable birds are found across forested and wooded areas, farmlands, and urban environments, though they avoid dense rainforests. Outside the breeding season, large flocks of up to 100 birds may form. Their diet mainly consists of insects and other invertebrates, which they catch in the air, glean from foliage, or pick from the ground. They also eat some fruits and seeds.
The Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike has a distinctive undulating flight: it flaps a few times, then glides with wings at its side, losing height before flapping again.
On landing, the birds often display a curious “shufflewing” motion. Their soft churring call, sometimes described as a warbling “Creearck,” is frequently heard across
their habitat.
Breeding usually occurs from August to February, although timing can vary in arid regions. Pairs often remain together each year and occupy the same territories. Nests are small saucers of sticks and bark, held together with cobwebs, with both parents caring for the chicks. The nestling period lasts about 21 days, and young birds resemble adults but have a reduced black
facial mask.
With a secure and widespread population, the Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike is not considered threatened. However, habitat loss through removal of mature trees, urban expansion, large-scale agriculture, increased fire frequency, and climate variability may affect local populations. Conservation efforts, including retaining mature trees, planting native vegetation, and promoting insect-rich environments, benefit the species, which adapts well to
urban areas.
Bird enthusiasts in East Gippsland are encouraged to get involved with Birdlife East Gippsland, which meets weekly on Mondays (except the second Sunday of each month) from 9 am to 12 pm. Meetings include a tea break, and outings are planned across diverse locations in the region. Visitors are welcome to join; bring binoculars, refreshments, sun protection, and appropriate footwear. Outings may be cancelled on days of Total Fire Ban, severe weather warnings, or access safety concerns—updates are available on Birdlife East Gippsland’s Facebook page or via email.
MARCH 2026 OUTINGS
– Sunday, March 8: Macleod Morass, Entrance Gate, Bosworth Rd, Bairnsdale
– Monday, March 16: Newlands Arm, Dinni Biraack Walk, 85 Birrells Rd, Newlands Arm
– March 22–27: BLEG Autumn Camp, Chiltern
– Monday, March 30: Oriental Claims / Cassilis Rec Reserve, Oriental Claims Car Park, off Great Alpine Rd, Omeo
Birdlife East Gippsland encourages both newcomers and long-time birdwatchers to experience the region’s diverse avian life while contributing to national bird records.
