Australia is full of biodiversity, and more than 900 species of birds are found in Australia, which includes birds from the six states and regions present in the country. Australia is a beautiful place for birds. Even many migratory birds visit Australia for breeding. The beauty of Australian wildlife is increased by the sighting of birds in the country. About 960 to 980 species of birds are found in Australia, including both extant and extinct bird species.
We all know many of the world’s species have gone extinct in Australia, and many of the world’s species are endangered. Birds play a key role in nature. Being beautiful creatures of nature, they are also very important for our ecosystem. They benefit human beings and nature, both directly and indirectly. In this article, we will talk about all the bird species found in Australia. About 980 species of birds are found in Australia, and we have listed all those 980 bird species here.
Australia Birds Name With Picture
1. Ostrich (Struthio camelus)
Although native to Africa, the Ostrich can be seen in some Australian wildlife parks and farms. This giant flightless bird is known for its tall height, long neck, and powerful legs. Its plumage is mostly black and white in males, while females are covered in brownish-gray feathers. Ostriches are remarkable runners and can live up to 40 to 45 years in captivity.
2. Emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae)
The Emu is found throughout most of mainland Australia, especially in open plains, grasslands, and savannas. Covered in shaggy brown feathers, the Emu’s color helps it blend perfectly into dry Australian landscapes. Known as the second-largest bird in the world, it can live around 10 to 20 years in the wild and even longer under human care.
3. Southern Cassowary (Casuarius casuarius)
The Southern Cassowary inhabits the tropical rainforests of northern Queensland. This striking bird stands out with its glossy black plumage, bright blue neck, and red wattles. It has a distinctive helmet-like casque on its head. Despite its beauty, it is known for its powerful legs and sharp claws. Cassowaries generally live about 40 to 50 years in the wild.
4. Magpie Goose (Anseranas semipalmata)
The Magpie Goose is found across northern Australia, especially around floodplains and wetlands. It has a black and white body with orange legs and a distinctive knob on its head. These birds often form large flocks and feed on aquatic vegetation. Magpie Geese can live for more than 20 years in the wild.
5. Spotted Whistling-Duck (Dendrocygna guttata)
The Spotted Whistling-Duck is seen in northern Australia, particularly in areas of Queensland and the Northern Territory. It is a graceful bird with brown plumage marked by white spots on its flanks. These ducks are known for their soft whistling calls. Their lifespan in the wild is not well-documented but is estimated around 10 years.
6. Plumed Whistling-Duck (Dendrocygna eytoni)
Common in northern and eastern Australia, the Plumed Whistling-Duck favors grassy wetlands and lagoons. It is easily identified by its long, elegant cream-colored plumes along the sides of its body and soft brown feathers. These sociable ducks live in flocks and have an average lifespan of around 10 to 15 years.
7. Wandering Whistling-Duck (Dendrocygna arcuata)
The Wandering Whistling-Duck is widespread across northern Australia, especially in tropical and subtropical wetlands. It has dark brown plumage with lighter edges and a graceful posture. This duck is named for its soft, whistling voice. Though specific lifespan data is limited, they are thought to live over 10 years.
8. Canada Goose (Branta canadensis)
The Canada Goose is not native but has been introduced to some parts of Australia, mainly in captivity and parks. It is known for its striking black head and neck, white chin strap, and brown body. These geese are hardy and adaptable, typically living 10 to 24 years in the wild.
9. Domestic Greylag Goose (Anser anser)
The Domestic Greylag Goose can be found on farms and lakes across Australia. It has a light gray body with white underparts and an orange bill. Known for its calm temperament, this goose is one of the ancestors of most domestic geese. It can live around 15 to 20 years when well cared for.
10. Cape Barren Goose (Cereopsis novaehollandiae)
The Cape Barren Goose is native to southern Australia, especially in Tasmania and offshore islands. It has a soft grey body dotted with small black spots and a distinctive greenish-yellow bill. These sturdy geese are often seen grazing on grasslands near the coast. They typically live for about 17 to 20 years.
11. Freckled Duck (Stictonetta naevosa)
The Freckled Duck is found across southeastern and southwestern Australia, usually in inland lakes and wetlands. It has dark brown feathers densely speckled with lighter spots, giving it a “freckled” appearance. Its slightly upturned bill adds to its unique charm. These ducks are among the rarest in Australia and can live up to around 10 to 12 years.
12. Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)
The Mute Swan is not native but has been introduced and can be found in some Australian parks and ornamental lakes. It is easily recognized by its white plumage, long curved neck, and bright orange bill with a black knob. These graceful birds can live for 20 to 30 years, often staying with the same mate for life.
13. Black Swan (Cygnus atratus)
The Black Swan is native to Australia and is commonly seen across wetlands, rivers, and coastal lagoons. With its striking black feathers and bright red bill, this elegant bird is a true symbol of Australia. Black Swans are known for their strong pair bonds and graceful swimming. They generally live for 10 to 15 years in the wild.
14. Radjah Shelduck (Radjah radjah)
The Radjah Shelduck is mostly found in northern Australia, particularly along mangrove creeks and coastal lagoons. It has a beautiful white body with dark brown wings and a greenish sheen when the light hits its feathers. This bird is often seen in pairs or small groups, and though its exact lifespan is uncertain, it is believed to live around 10 years.
15. Australian Shelduck (Tadorna tadornoides)
Native to southern and southwestern Australia, the Australian Shelduck prefers open lakes and estuaries. It has a dark green head, chestnut breast, and white neck collar, making it one of the country’s most colorful waterfowl. These ducks are known to form lifelong pairs and can live for about 15 to 20 years.
16. Paradise Shelduck (Tadorna variegata)
The Paradise Shelduck is native to New Zealand but can occasionally be seen in southeastern Australia. Males have dark grey plumage, while females are chestnut with a white head. These birds are striking in flight and often stay near open grasslands and lakes. Their lifespan can reach up to 20 years.
17. Green Pygmy-Goose (Nettapus pulchellus)
Found in tropical northern Australia, the Green Pygmy-Goose inhabits freshwater lagoons and swamps. This small, colorful bird has a glossy green head, white underparts, and chestnut sides. It is one of the smallest waterfowl in Australia and is admired for its beauty. The average lifespan is around 10 years.
18. Cotton Pygmy-Goose (Nettapus coromandelianus)
The Cotton Pygmy-Goose occurs in northern and eastern Australia, favoring calm freshwater wetlands. It is a tiny duck with a bright white body, dark green upperparts, and a short bill. These birds are excellent swimmers and often perch on floating vegetation. Their lifespan in the wild is not well-documented but is thought to be over 8 years.
19. Australian Wood Duck (Chenonetta jubata)
The Australian Wood Duck is found throughout most of Australia, living near rivers, lakes, and open grassy fields. It has a grey body with a chestnut head and fine dark spots on the chest. Known for grazing on land like geese, these ducks are highly social. They can live for 10 to 15 years.
20. Garganey (Spatula querquedula)
The Garganey is a migratory duck that occasionally visits northern and eastern Australia. It has a beautiful combination of brown, grey, and white plumage, with males showing a distinctive white crescent over the eye. They are known for their long migrations from Eurasia. Their lifespan usually ranges from 7 to 10 years.
21. Australian Shoveler (Spatula rhynchotis)
The Australian Shoveler is found in southeastern and southwestern parts of the country, especially in shallow freshwater lakes. Its large, spatula-shaped bill makes it easy to identify. Males have a rich blue-grey head and chestnut flanks, while females are mottled brown. These ducks generally live around 10 to 15 years.
22. Northern Shoveler (Spatula clypeata)
The Northern Shoveler is a rare visitor to Australia, more commonly seen in the Northern Hemisphere. It is recognized by its broad bill, green head, and white chest with chestnut sides. These ducks favor wetlands and shallow ponds. They typically live for about 8 to 10 years in the wild.
23. Eurasian Wigeon (Mareca penelope)
The Eurasian Wigeon is a migratory duck occasionally spotted in southern and eastern Australia. Males are easily identified by their reddish-brown heads and creamy forehead patches, while females are light brown. These ducks are graceful and feed mostly on aquatic plants. They can live for up to 10 to 12 years.
24. Pacific Black Duck (Anas superciliosa)
The Pacific Black Duck is one of the most common ducks in Australia, found in nearly all freshwater habitats. It has dark brown feathers with pale edges and a distinctive black stripe through the eye. Known for its adaptability, this duck thrives in both rural and urban areas. They live about 10 to 15 years in the wild.
25. Domestic Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos domesticus)
The Domestic Mallard, a descendant of the wild mallard, is found across Australian parks, farms, and lakes. Males have glossy green heads and grey bodies, while females are brown and mottled. These ducks are very social and often interbreed with native species. In captivity, they can live 10 to 15 years or more.
26. Pacific Black Duck × Mallard Hybrid (Anas superciliosa × platyrhynchos)
The Pacific Black Duck × Mallard Hybrid is common in urban wetlands of Australia. It displays mixed features—often the green sheen of mallards with the darker patterns of black ducks. This hybrid is fertile and well-adapted to city ponds and parks. Its lifespan is similar to its parent species, around 10 to 15 years.
27. Domestic Muscovy Duck (Cairina moschata domesticus)
The Domestic Muscovy Duck is found in farms and parks across Australia. It has dark feathers that often shine green or purple in sunlight and a red, fleshy caruncle around its face. Unlike most ducks, it is quiet and often perches in trees. These ducks live for about 8 to 12 years in captivity.
28. Northern Pintail (Anas acuta)
The Northern Pintail is a rare migratory visitor to Australia, especially seen in the north. It has a sleek, long neck, pointed tail, and beautiful brown and grey feathers. Males are elegant with white underparts and a chocolate-brown head. They usually live about 10 to 15 years in the wild.
29. Green-Winged Teal (Anas crecca)
The Green-Winged Teal is occasionally found in northern Australia during migration. It has a chestnut head with a bold green eye patch and grey body. These small ducks are agile flyers and prefer shallow wetlands. Their lifespan is typically around 8 to 10 years.
30. Grey Teal (Anas gracilis)
The Grey Teal is widespread throughout Australia, thriving in both inland and coastal wetlands. It has soft brown-grey plumage with a pale face and red eyes. This adaptable duck can survive in arid regions by moving to temporary lakes after rain. Grey Teals can live up to 15 years.
31. Chestnut Teal (Anas castanea)
The Chestnut Teal is found mainly in southeastern and southwestern Australia, especially in coastal lagoons and estuaries. Males are stunning with dark green heads and chestnut bodies, while females are brown. These ducks are shy but beautiful, living around 10 to 15 years.
32. Pink-Eared Duck (Malacorhynchus membranaceus)
The Pink-Eared Duck is found across much of Australia, favoring shallow inland lakes and flooded areas. It has a brown-and-white striped body, a small pink spot near the eye, and a uniquely shaped bill. Known as the “zebra duck,” it feeds by filtering plankton. These birds live roughly 10 years in the wild.
33. Hardhead (Aythya australis)
The Hardhead is native to Australia and found in deep freshwater lakes and swamps. It has a rich chocolate-brown head and body with white underparts. Males have bright white eyes, giving them a striking look. These diving ducks live around 8 to 10 years in the wild.
34. Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)
The Tufted Duck is a rare visitor to Australia, more commonly found in Eurasia. Males are black and white with a distinctive tuft of feathers on their head, while females are brown. They prefer large lakes and reservoirs. These ducks can live for about 10 to 15 years.
35. Blue-Billed Duck (Oxyura australis)
The Blue-Billed Duck is native to southeastern Australia, living in deep freshwater lakes and wetlands. Males are easily recognized by their bright blue bills during the breeding season and chestnut plumage. Females are brown and finely mottled. They are secretive divers that can live up to 12 years.
36. Musk Duck (Biziura lobata)
The Musk Duck is found in southern Australia, inhabiting deep lakes and wetlands. It has dark grey-brown plumage, a stiff tail, and a distinctive leathery lobe under the male’s bill. Named for its musky odor, it is an excellent diver that spends most of its time in the water. These ducks can live for 15 to 20 years.
37. Australian Brushturkey (Alectura lathami)
The Australian Brushturkey is commonly found along the eastern coast of Australia, from Cape York to southern New South Wales. It has dark, blackish plumage, a bright red head, and a striking yellow wattle. This large, ground-dwelling bird is known for building massive nesting mounds out of leaves and soil. Brushturkeys usually live around 10 to 15 years in the wild.
38. Malleefowl (Leipoa ocellata)
The Malleefowl inhabits the dry mallee scrublands of southern Australia. Its plumage is mottled brown, grey, and white, which helps it blend into the sandy soil and leaf litter. These birds are known for their remarkable nesting mounds that use heat from decomposing vegetation to incubate eggs. They typically live for about 15 to 20 years in their natural environment.
39. Orange-Footed Scrubfowl (Megapodius reinwardt)
Found in northern Australia, particularly in the tropical forests of the Northern Territory and Cape York, the Orange-Footed Scrubfowl is a shy, ground-dwelling bird. It has brownish-grey feathers, a small crest, and bright orange legs and feet that make it easily recognizable. These birds build large nesting mounds and can live around 10 years in the wild.
40. Helmeted Guineafowl (Numida meleagris)
The Helmeted Guineafowl is not native to Australia but has been introduced and can be found on farms and open grasslands. It has black plumage speckled with white dots and a bare blue head crowned with a horn-like casque. These social birds are noisy and excellent pest controllers. They generally live 10 to 15 years in captivity.
41. California Quail (Callipepla californica)
The California Quail has been introduced to parts of southeastern and southwestern Australia. It is a small bird with grey and brown feathers, a scaled pattern on the belly, and a distinctive forward-curving black crest on its head. These quails are ground feeders and often move in coveys. They live around 6 to 8 years.
42. Indian Peafowl (Pavo cristatus)
The Indian Peafowl, or peacock, is found in many parks, gardens, and estates throughout Australia. It is famous for the male’s dazzling blue neck and long, iridescent tail feathers adorned with eye-like patterns. Females are more subdued in color, mainly brown and green. Peafowls are known for their loud calls and can live up to 20 years or more.
43. Brown Quail (Synoicus ypsilophorus)
The Brown Quail is native to Australia and widespread across grasslands, farmlands, and coastal heaths. It has a rounded body covered in brown and black streaked feathers, allowing it to blend into grassy habitats. These small, shy birds usually travel in groups and feed on seeds and insects. Their lifespan is around 5 to 7 years.
44. Blue-Breasted Quail (Excalfactoria chinensis)
Also known as the King Quail, the Blue-Breasted Quail occurs in northern and eastern Australia. It is a tiny, colorful bird—males display blue breasts and reddish-brown wings, while females are more subdued in color. These quails prefer grassy wetlands and are often seen darting through dense cover. Their lifespan is typically 4 to 6 years.
45. Stubble Quail (Coturnix pectoralis)
The Stubble Quail is found across southern and eastern Australia, particularly in farmlands, grasslands, and stubble fields after harvest. It has brown plumage with streaks of cream and black that provide perfect camouflage. These birds are strong fliers and often migrate in response to rainfall. Their lifespan is usually around 5 to 6 years.
46. Red Junglefowl (Gallus gallus)
The Red Junglefowl, ancestor of the domestic chicken, can occasionally be found in captivity or feral populations in northern Australia. Males have glossy red, orange, and black feathers with a golden sheen, while females are brown and camouflaged. Known for their crowing and strong territorial behavior, they can live up to 10 years.
47. Green Junglefowl (Gallus varius)
The Green Junglefowl is native to Indonesia but sometimes kept in Australian aviaries. Males have shimmering green and blue feathers with golden highlights and a distinctive purple throat patch. Females are duller, with mottled brown plumage. These birds are admired for their beauty and live around 8 to 12 years in captivity.
48. Ring-Necked Pheasant (Phasianus colchicus)
The Ring-Necked Pheasant is introduced to some areas of Australia for game and ornamental purposes. It has an iridescent green head, white neck ring, and coppery body with long tail feathers. Females are brown and less colorful. These elegant birds prefer open farmland and grasslands and live around 10 to 12 years.
49. Wild Turkey (Meleagris gallopavo)
The Wild Turkey is occasionally kept on farms or reserves in Australia, though it is native to North America. It has bronze-brown plumage with metallic highlights and a bare, red-and-blue head. Males display large tail fans during courtship. These large birds are strong fliers and can live 10 to 15 years in the wild.
50. Greater Flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus)
The Greater Flamingo is a rare visitor to Australia, with occasional sightings in coastal salt lakes. It is famous for its tall, slender body, pink plumage, and long, curved neck. These graceful birds feed by filtering crustaceans and algae from shallow water. Flamingos can live for 30 to 50 years, making them one of the longest-lived wading birds.
51. Little Grebe (Tachybaptus ruficollis)
The Little Grebe is a small diving bird often found across Australia in freshwater lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers. It has a dark brown upper body with a rich chestnut-colored neck and cheeks during the breeding season, while non-breeding plumage turns duller. This active swimmer dives frequently for small fish and insects and generally lives up to 10 to 15 years.
52. Australasian Grebe (Tachybaptus novaehollandiae)
Common in freshwater habitats throughout Australia, the Australasian Grebe is a compact bird with glossy black upperparts and chestnut flanks during breeding. Outside the season, it takes on a duller brown appearance. These grebes are excellent divers and can live around 10 years in the wild.
53. Hoary-headed Grebe (Poliocephalus poliocephalus)
Found in inland wetlands and large lakes across southern Australia, the Hoary-headed Grebe is recognized by its silvery-white streaked head and greyish-brown body. It’s a capable swimmer and often dives to feed on aquatic insects and small fish. Its average lifespan is about 10 years.
54. Great Crested Grebe (Podiceps cristatus)
Occasionally seen in southern Australian lakes, the Great Crested Grebe is admired for its elegant form and ornate head plumes. It has a white neck, reddish-brown frills around the face, and a long slender neck. These graceful birds can live for up to 15 years.
55. Rock Pigeon (Columba livia)
Widespread in cities and rural areas across Australia, the Rock Pigeon is known for its grey-blue plumage with two black wing bars and shimmering green and purple neck feathers. These adaptable birds thrive near human settlements and live about 6 to 10 years in the wild.
56. Metallic Pigeon (Columba vitiensis)
This rare pigeon is found along the tropical coasts and islands of northern Queensland. It’s easily identified by its glossy metallic green and purple feathers and pale grey underparts. The bird’s beauty and calm nature make it one of the more striking pigeons of Australia.
57. White-headed Pigeon (Columba leucomela)
Native to the eastern coastal forests of Australia, the White-headed Pigeon stands out with its pure white head, black wings, and soft grey body. It prefers rainforest edges and feeds mainly on fruits and seeds. These pigeons can live around 8 to 12 years.
58. Oriental Turtle-Dove (Streptopelia orientalis)
An occasional visitor to northern Australia, this dove has a soft brown body with darker scaled patterns and a distinctive black-and-white striped neck patch. Its gentle cooing and calm flight make it a graceful sight in woodlands and farmlands. Lifespan is typically up to 10 years.
59. Barbary Dove (Streptopelia risoria)
Kept as a domesticated bird across Australia, the Barbary Dove is pale cream or light tan with a characteristic black collar on its neck. It’s gentle and friendly, often seen in aviaries and parks. These doves can live for 10 to 15 years under care.
60. Red Collared-Dove (Streptopelia tranquebarica)
Rarely seen in northern Australia, the Red Collared-Dove is small and elegant with a pinkish-red body and a dark half-collar around the nape. The female is more brownish. They inhabit open woodlands and agricultural regions in tropical zones.
61. Spotted Dove (Spilopelia chinensis)
Common across Australian cities and suburbs, the Spotted Dove has light brown plumage with darker spots and a white-spotted black collar. It’s a peaceful bird, often seen foraging on the ground. The species generally lives 6 to 10 years in the wild.
62. Laughing Dove (Spilopelia senegalensis)
Seen occasionally in the northern parts of Australia, the Laughing Dove gets its name from its soft, chuckling call. It has a pinkish body, bluish head, and chestnut-colored feathers. The bird’s typical lifespan is around 10 years.
63. Brown Cuckoo-Dove (Macropygia phasianella)
Found in eastern Australian rainforests, the Brown Cuckoo-Dove has a rich, long tail and glossy reddish-brown plumage. It’s often seen perching quietly in dense foliage, feeding on berries. This bird can live up to 8–10 years.
64. Common Emerald Dove (Chalcophaps indica)
This stunning bird is native to northern and eastern Australia. It displays brilliant emerald-green wings, a pinkish-brown head, and a bright coral-red bill. Preferring dense forests and mangroves, it can live around 10 years.
65. Pacific Emerald Dove (Chalcophaps longirostris)
A close relative of the Common Emerald Dove, this species is also found along eastern and northern coasts of Australia. It has glowing green wings and chestnut body tones, with a white shoulder mark. These doves often live in pairs and can survive up to a decade.
66. Stephan’s Dove (Chalcophaps stephani)
Native to northern Queensland’s rainforests and nearby islands, Stephan’s Dove is known for its deep green wings, purple sheen, and soft brown underparts. It is a shy bird that feeds quietly on forest fruits.
67. Norfolk Ground Dove (Alopecoenas norfolciensis)
This species, once found on Norfolk Island, is now extinct. Historical records describe it as a medium-sized dove with soft grey plumage and a calm demeanor. It lived mainly on the ground, feeding on seeds and fallen fruits.
68. Common Bronzewing (Phaps chalcoptera)
Widespread across Australia, the Common Bronzewing is known for its striking iridescent wing patches that shimmer green, blue, and bronze. Its body is brownish-grey, and it often forages on the ground for seeds. These pigeons live up to 10 years.
69. Brush Bronzewing (Phaps elegans)
Found in forested regions of southern Australia, the Brush Bronzewing has similar shimmering wing patches but a darker, more subdued plumage suited to the undergrowth. It’s a shy bird, rarely seen in open spaces.
70. Flock Bronzewing (Phaps histrionica)
Native to inland Australia, the Flock Bronzewing travels in large groups across arid plains. It has a grey body, a white face with a black mask, and colorful patches on the wings. The species is well adapted to dry habitats and can live around 8 to 12 years.
71. Crested Pigeon (Ocyphaps lophotes)
The Crested Pigeon is one of Australia’s most familiar birds, commonly seen in open grasslands, farmlands, and urban parks. It’s easily recognized by its tall, pointed crest and metallic sheen on its wings. The soft grey body and pinkish underparts add to its charm. This sociable bird often gathers in small flocks and lives for about 5 to 10 years.
72. Spinifex Pigeon (Geophaps plumifera)
Found mainly in the arid inland regions of Australia, the Spinifex Pigeon thrives among rocky hills and desert plains. Its reddish-brown plumage blends beautifully with the landscape, and its tall, thin crest gives it a distinctive appearance. These pigeons rely on water sources and can live up to 10 years in the wild.
73. Squatter Pigeon (Geophaps scripta)
Native to northern and eastern Australia, the Squatter Pigeon has a striking white facial stripe and grey-brown plumage. It prefers open forests and grassy plains, often seen feeding on the ground. The bird’s name comes from its habit of squatting low when alarmed. It can live for around 8 to 10 years.
74. Partridge Pigeon (Geophaps smithii)
Restricted to northern Australia, particularly in the Northern Territory, the Partridge Pigeon has a soft grey body with red facial skin and pinkish legs. It lives in grassy woodlands and feeds mainly on seeds. The species is considered near threatened due to habitat loss but remains an iconic bird of the region.
75. Chestnut-quilled Rock-Pigeon (Petrophassa rufipennis)
This rare pigeon inhabits the rocky escarpments of Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory. It is named for its chestnut-colored wing quills, contrasting with its grey body and white markings on the face. It’s elusive and well-camouflaged among the rocks, with little known about its lifespan.
76. White-quilled Rock-Pigeon (Petrophassa albipennis)
Endemic to northwestern Australia, particularly the Kimberley region, the White-quilled Rock-Pigeon is known for its pale wing feathers that flash white in flight. Its body is grey-brown, helping it blend with rugged cliffs. This species prefers dry, rocky habitats where it nests in crevices.
77. Wonga Pigeon (Leucosarcia melanoleuca)
Found in eastern Australia’s forests, the Wonga Pigeon is large and elegant, with a grey back, white underparts, and a distinctive pattern of black spots on its chest. It’s a ground-dwelling species that feeds on seeds and fallen fruits. These pigeons are long-lived, with lifespans reaching up to 15 years.
78. Diamond Dove (Geopelia cuneata)
The Diamond Dove is a small, delicate bird widespread across Australia’s arid interior. It has soft grey plumage, white-spotted wings that resemble tiny diamonds, and a red eye ring. Often seen near waterholes, it lives in pairs or small groups and can survive 8 to 12 years.
79. Peaceful Dove (Geopelia placida)
Found throughout northern and eastern Australia, the Peaceful Dove is known for its calm behavior and distinctive “peaceful” cooing. Its plumage features fine blue-grey barring and a metallic sheen. These doves often inhabit open woodlands and suburban gardens, living up to 10 years.
80. Bar-shouldered Dove (Geopelia humeralis)
The Bar-shouldered Dove is common in northern and eastern Australia, recognizable by the coppery patches on its shoulders and blue-grey chest with fine barring. It prefers forests and riverbanks and is often seen foraging in small flocks. This species can live up to 10 years in the wild.
81. Nicobar Pigeon (Caloenas nicobarica)
Occasionally seen in northern coastal islands of Australia, the Nicobar Pigeon is a striking bird with iridescent feathers that shimmer in shades of green, bronze, and blue. Its white tail contrasts beautifully with its dark body. The bird has a calm nature and may live up to 15 years.
82. Black-banded Fruit-Dove (Ptilinopus alligator)
Endemic to northern Australia, this rare fruit-dove lives in monsoon forests and mangroves. It has olive-green plumage with a distinctive black band across its belly and pale underparts. It feeds mainly on small fruits and berries.
83. Wompoo Fruit-Dove (Ptilinopus magnificus)
The Wompoo Fruit-Dove is one of the most colorful birds of eastern Australia, found in rainforests from Cape York to New South Wales. It has a purple chest, green wings, and a soft yellow belly. Its distinctive “wom-poo” call echoes through the forest canopy. These doves can live for over 10 years.
84. Orange-fronted Fruit-Dove (Ptilinopus aurantiifrons)
Occasionally found in northern Australia, the Orange-fronted Fruit-Dove stands out with its bright orange forehead, green wings, and purple crown. It prefers tropical forest habitats and feeds on figs and berries, moving quietly among dense foliage.
85. Superb Fruit-Dove (Ptilinopus superbus)
Native to eastern and northern Australia, the Superb Fruit-Dove lives in rainforests and coastal regions. The male has a rich mix of purple, green, and orange feathers, while the female is mainly green for better camouflage. It’s one of the most vibrant fruit-doves and can live for about 10 years.
86. Rose-crowned Fruit-Dove (Ptilinopus regina)
Common across northern and eastern Australia, the Rose-crowned Fruit-Dove is easily recognized by its pink crown, grey head, and green body. It feeds on rainforest fruits and often nests high in trees. Its lifespan typically ranges between 8 and 12 years.
87. Orange-bellied Fruit-Dove (Ptilinopus iozonus)
Found in far northern Australia, especially in Cape York Peninsula, this fruit-dove has vivid green plumage with an orange patch on its belly. It inhabits tropical forests and mangroves, feeding on soft fruits and berries. The bird is small and very agile.
88. Elegant Imperial-Pigeon (Ducula concinna)
Occasionally seen on northern Australian islands, the Elegant Imperial-Pigeon is sleek and graceful with soft grey plumage and white underparts. It moves in small flocks and feeds on tropical fruits in the canopy. Its gentle flight adds to its name’s elegance.
89. Wharton’s Imperial-Pigeon (Ducula whartoni)
This rare species, mainly known from Christmas Island, has occasionally been recorded near northern Australia. It has a pale grey body with darker wings and a soft blue tinge on the head. Preferring tall forests, it feeds mostly on fruiting trees.
90. Collared Imperial-Pigeon (Ducula mullerii)
Found in northern coastal regions of Australia, the Collared Imperial-Pigeon has a distinctive black collar across its neck, white underparts, and greyish wings. It’s often seen flying over rainforests and mangrove areas, moving gracefully between feeding sites.
91. Torresian Imperial-Pigeon (Ducula spilorrhoa)
The Torresian Imperial-Pigeon is widespread across northern Australia, especially in Queensland and the Torres Strait islands. It has a graceful appearance with pure white plumage and contrasting black flight feathers. Often seen flying high over coastal forests and mangroves, this pigeon feeds mainly on figs and other fruits. They can live up to 15 years and are vital seed dispersers for tropical ecosystems.
92. Topknot Pigeon (Lopholaimus antarcticus)
Found along the eastern coast of Australia, the Topknot Pigeon is easily recognized by its distinctive swept-back crest. Its body is mostly grey with a white chest and dark-tipped wings. These large fruit-eating pigeons travel in noisy flocks across rainforests and can live for around 10 to 15 years.
93. New Zealand Pigeon (Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae)
Occasionally seen in Australia’s southeastern regions and islands, the New Zealand Pigeon is a large, colorful bird with a green and bronze head, white underparts, and a purplish back. It feeds on fruits and berries and is known for its slow, heavy flight. These pigeons can live beyond 15 years in the wild.
94. Australian Bustard (Ardeotis australis)
The Australian Bustard is one of the continent’s largest flying birds, found mainly in northern and inland regions. It has a tall, upright posture, with a mix of brown, grey, and white plumage that blends perfectly with dry grasslands. This ground-dwelling bird can live around 15 to 20 years and is often seen walking slowly while foraging for insects and seeds.
95. Lesser Coucal (Centropus bengalensis)
Occasionally seen in northern Australia, the Lesser Coucal is a shy, secretive bird that prefers tall grasses and reed beds. It has glossy black feathers on its head and back, with chestnut-brown wings. Known for its deep, bubbling calls, it’s a rare sight but an important part of the tropical ecosystem.
96. Pheasant Coucal (Centropus phasianinus)
Common in northern and eastern Australia, the Pheasant Coucal is a large cuckoo with striking black and chestnut plumage and a long tail. Although it’s a cuckoo, it builds its own nest and raises its young. It inhabits grasslands and forests and can live around 10 years in the wild.
97. Chestnut-winged Cuckoo (Clamator coromandus)
This colorful cuckoo occasionally migrates to northern Australia. It has glossy black plumage on the head and upperparts, bright chestnut wings, and a long tail tipped with white. Known for its melodious calls, this bird prefers dense forests and wooded areas during its breeding season.
98. Asian Koel (Eudynamys scolopaceus)
The Asian Koel is a well-known bird in northern Australia, especially during summer. Males are glossy black with striking red eyes, while females are brown with white spots. Their loud, repetitive “ko-el” call marks the dawn in many tropical regions. Koels can live for up to 12 years and are brood parasites, laying eggs in the nests of other birds.
99. Pacific Koel (Eudynamys orientalis)
Found across northern and eastern Australia, the Pacific Koel resembles the Asian Koel but is native to the region. Males are glossy black, while females are brown with intricate markings. Their loud, rising calls are often heard during the breeding season. These birds live in forests and suburban gardens and can survive for more than a decade.
100. Long-tailed Koel (Urodynamis taitensis)
A migrant from the Pacific islands, the Long-tailed Koel visits northern and eastern Australia during the breeding season. It has a sleek black body with a noticeably long tail and red eyes. Its loud calls signal the onset of summer, and it lives mainly in forested and coastal regions.
101. Channel-billed Cuckoo (Scythrops novaehollandiae)
The Channel-billed Cuckoo is the largest cuckoo in the world and a regular visitor to eastern and northern Australia. It has a pale grey body, long tail, and a massive curved bill. These birds are loud and often seen flying over suburbs during summer, laying eggs in the nests of crows and currawongs. They can live up to 10 years.
102. Long-billed Cuckoo (Chrysococcyx megarhynchus)
Native to northern Australia’s rainforests, the Long-billed Cuckoo is a slender bird with greenish-bronze plumage and a noticeably long bill. It prefers dense tropical forests where it feeds on insects and caterpillars. The species is rarely seen due to its secretive habits.
103. Horsfield’s Bronze-Cuckoo (Chrysococcyx basalis)
Common across much of Australia, Horsfield’s Bronze-Cuckoo is a small bird with metallic green upperparts and pale underparts streaked with brown. Its sweet whistling call often reveals its presence. It lays its eggs in the nests of wrens and thornbills and can live around 8 to 10 years.
104. Black-eared Cuckoo (Chrysococcyx osculans)
This cuckoo is found throughout southern and inland Australia. It has olive-brown plumage with a distinctive dark patch behind the eye. Preferring dry woodlands, it often mimics the calls of other birds to approach nests where it lays its eggs. It usually lives about 8 years.
105. Shining Bronze-Cuckoo (Chrysococcyx lucidus)
The Shining Bronze-Cuckoo lives across Australia’s forests and gardens. It has brilliant metallic green upperparts and white underparts with dark barring. Its melodic descending whistle is common in spring. The bird is migratory and can live around 10 years.
106. Little Bronze-Cuckoo (Chrysococcyx minutillus)
The smallest cuckoo in Australia, the Little Bronze-Cuckoo inhabits northern coastal areas. It has gleaming green plumage with fine barring underneath and bright red eyes. Despite its tiny size, it’s a skilled flier and lays its eggs in the nests of small birds.
107. Pallid Cuckoo (Cacomantis pallidus)
Found throughout mainland Australia, the Pallid Cuckoo is pale grey with a long barred tail and yellow eye-ring. Its mournful, repeated calls are often heard in open forests and farmlands during spring. It’s a migratory species and can live around 10 years.
108. Chestnut-breasted Cuckoo (Cacomantis castaneiventris)
This tropical cuckoo is found in northern Australia. It has a chestnut-colored breast, grey head, and dark tail with white tips. It prefers rainforests and wooded areas, where it feeds on insects and small caterpillars. Its lifespan is not well documented but likely around 8 years.
109. Fan-tailed Cuckoo (Cacomantis flabelliformis)
Common across eastern and southern Australia, the Fan-tailed Cuckoo has slate-grey plumage with a rufous chest and broad, barred tail. Its distinctive descending whistle is one of the most familiar forest sounds. These birds live in a variety of habitats and can survive around 10 years.
110. Brush Cuckoo (Cacomantis variolosus)
The Brush Cuckoo is a medium-sized bird found along the eastern and northern coasts of Australia. It has soft grey plumage, pale underparts, and a long barred tail. Preferring rainforests and woodlands, it lays eggs in other birds’ nests and can live about 8 to 10 years.
111. Square-tailed Drongo-Cuckoo (Surniculus lugubris)
Rare in northern Australia, this glossy black cuckoo resembles a drongo with its square-tipped tail. It inhabits tropical forests and is known for its sharp, repetitive calls. Its shiny plumage gives off a bluish sheen in sunlight.
112. Large Hawk-Cuckoo (Hierococcyx sparverioides)
Occasionally visiting northern Australia, the Large Hawk-Cuckoo has grey-brown plumage and resembles a small hawk. Its fierce appearance often startles smaller birds. It prefers forested regions and feeds mainly on caterpillars and insects.
113. Hodgson’s Hawk-Cuckoo (Hierococcyx nisicolor)
A rare migrant to northern Australia, Hodgson’s Hawk-Cuckoo has barred brown and white plumage with bright yellow eyes. It mimics the flight of hawks to avoid predators and is known for its high-pitched, repetitive call.
114. Indian Cuckoo (Cuculus micropterus)
Sometimes seen in northern Australia, the Indian Cuckoo has grey upperparts and pale barred underparts. Its loud four-note call sounds like “one more bottle” and can be heard through tropical forests. It feeds mainly on insects and lays its eggs in the nests of other bird species.
115. Oriental Cuckoo (Cuculus optatus)
A migrant to northern and eastern Australia, the Oriental Cuckoo has greyish plumage with fine bars on the belly and yellow eyes. It’s quiet and solitary, spending much of its time high in the canopy searching for caterpillars. The bird migrates seasonally between Asia and Australia and can live around 10 years.
116. Tawny Frogmouth (Podargus strigoides)
is a well-known nocturnal bird native to almost every part of Australia, from forests to suburban areas. Its mottled grey and brown feathers blend perfectly with tree bark, giving it incredible camouflage. Often mistaken for owls, these birds are more closely related to nightjars. Tawny frogmouths can live up to 10–14 years in the wild, feeding mainly on insects, spiders, and small invertebrates.
117. Marbled Frogmouth (Podargus ocellatus)
found in the tropical rainforests of northeastern Queensland and nearby islands. It has beautifully marbled plumage with a mix of brown, black, and cream colors that help it stay hidden among dense foliage. This elusive bird prefers a quiet lifestyle and is rarely seen during the day as it rests camouflaged on branches.
118. Papuan Frogmouth (Podargus papuensis) inhabits northern Australia, particularly in Cape York Peninsula and nearby regions. It is the largest species among frogmouths and has a dark brown body with fine streaks and a large mouth adapted for catching insects at night. Its deep booming call often echoes through tropical woodlands after sunset.
119. Spotted Nightjar (Eurostopodus argus)
widespread across arid and semi-arid regions of mainland Australia. Its plumage is patterned with brown, grey, and buff spots, offering excellent camouflage on rocky or sandy ground. These birds are nocturnal insect hunters, using their large eyes and wide mouths to capture flying prey in the dark.
120. White-throated Nightjar (Eurostopodus mystacalis)
is native to eastern Australia, commonly found along forest edges and open woodlands. It has a dark mottled body with a distinctive white patch on its throat, which flashes during courtship displays. Its haunting calls are often heard during summer nights.
121. Grey Nightjar (Caprimulgus jotaka)
is a migratory species that occasionally reaches northern Australia. It has soft greyish-brown plumage with dark streaks and spots that provide perfect camouflage on the forest floor. It is active at dusk, catching flying insects in open areas.
122. Large-tailed Nightjar (Caprimulgus macrurus) can be found in northern Australia, especially near wetlands and mangrove forests. It has a long tail and intricate brown-and-black patterns across its feathers. Its deep, repetitive calls are often heard in tropical evenings.
123. Savanna Nightjar (Caprimulgus affinis) inhabits open grasslands and savannas in northern parts of Australia. Its plumage is brown and buff, blending with dry grass. This bird remains motionless during the day and becomes active at dusk to catch insects mid-flight.
124. Australian Owlet-nightjar (Aegotheles cristatus) is found throughout mainland Australia and is one of the smallest nocturnal birds in the country. Its soft grey and brown feathers, large eyes, and short beak make it perfectly adapted to hunting insects at night. It typically nests in tree hollows and can live up to 10 years.
125. Papuan Spine-tailed Swift (Mearnsia novaeguineae) is found in northern Queensland and nearby islands. This small, agile bird has a dark glossy plumage with a distinctive spined tail. It spends most of its life in flight, catching insects high in the air.
126. White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) migrates to Australia during the summer months. It has sleek dark plumage with a white throat patch and needle-like tail feathers. Known as one of the fastest flying birds, it spends most of its time soaring high in the sky.
127. Christmas Island Swiftlet (Collocalia natalis) is endemic to Christmas Island, an Australian territory. Its plumage is glossy blue-black, and it builds its nests in caves. This bird plays a vital role in controlling insect populations on the island.
128. Glossy Swiftlet (Collocalia esculenta) is found in northern and eastern Australia. It has a shiny bluish-black upper body and pale underparts. These swiftlets are fast flyers and often nest in caves or under cliffs using saliva to hold their nests together.
129. Australian Swiftlet (Aerodramus terraereginae) is found along Queensland’s tropical coast. It has dark, metallic plumage and slender wings built for rapid flight. This species often roosts in limestone caves and feeds on flying insects.
130. Uniform Swiftlet (Aerodramus vanikorensis) occurs in northern Australia and nearby islands. It is uniformly dark grey with slightly lighter underparts. These swiftlets are highly social and can often be seen flying in groups over forests and open fields.
131. Mossy-nest Swiftlet (Aerodramus salangana) occasionally occurs in northern Australia. It gets its name from the moss used to build its unique nests, which are attached to cave walls. Its plumage is dark and glossy, and it lives mostly on flying insects.
132. White-nest Swiftlet (Aerodramus fuciphagus) is rare in Australia but more common in nearby Southeast Asia. It has greyish-brown feathers and is famous for its edible nests made entirely from hardened saliva, which are used in bird’s nest soup.
133. Pacific Swift (Apus pacificus) is a migratory bird that travels to Australia from northern Asia during summer. It has glossy black plumage and a deeply forked tail. This swift spends almost its entire life in the air, feeding on small flying insects.
134. Common Swift (Apus apus) occasionally visits northern Australia. Its dark, soot-colored plumage and crescent-shaped wings make it a graceful flyer. Known for its incredible stamina, it can remain airborne for months at a time.
135. House Swift (Apus affinis) is found in northern and eastern parts of Australia. It is a small bird with blackish-brown feathers and a white rump. Often seen near human settlements, it builds nests on buildings and cliffs using feathers and saliva.
136. Corn Crake (Crex crex) is a rare vagrant visitor to Australia, mainly seen in the northern and eastern parts of the continent. This bird has a buff-brown body with darker streaks and a bluish-grey face and breast. It prefers dense grasslands and wet meadows, where it hides and forages for insects and seeds.
137. Lewin’s Rail (Lewinia pectoralis) is found along the eastern and southern coasts of Australia. It has dark brown plumage with fine white streaks and a rich chestnut face and breast. This shy, secretive bird lives in wetlands and reed beds and is rarely seen in open areas.
138. Chestnut Rail (Gallirallus castaneoventris) inhabits the mangrove forests of northern Australia. It has a striking chestnut-brown body with a dark crown and greyish face. Its strong legs allow it to move swiftly through dense mangrove roots in search of insects and crustaceans.
139. Weka (Gallirallus australis), now extirpated from mainland Australia, was once found in some southern regions. It is still common in New Zealand. The Weka has brown plumage with darker streaks and a sturdy body, feeding mainly on insects, fruits, and small animals.
140. Lord Howe Woodhen (Gallirallus sylvestris) is a flightless bird endemic to Lord Howe Island. It has olive-brown feathers and a short tail, adapted to the forest floor life. Once critically endangered, the species has made a successful recovery thanks to conservation efforts.
141. Buff-banded Rail (Gallirallus philippensis) is widespread across Australia, from coastal mangroves to inland wetlands. It is easily recognized by its brown and white barred plumage and the prominent buff-colored band across its chest. It feeds on insects, small crabs, and plant matter.
142. Black-tailed Nativehen (Tribonyx ventralis) is found in inland and southern Australia. It has a dark greenish body with a glossy sheen and a black tail. Known for its fast running, this bird lives near water bodies and feeds on aquatic plants and insects.
143. Tasmanian Nativehen (Tribonyx mortierii) is endemic to Tasmania. It is a flightless bird with olive-green plumage and a blue-grey breast. This nativehen is often seen running rapidly across open grasslands and wetlands.
144. Spotted Crake (Porzana porzana) is a vagrant species in Australia, usually appearing during migration seasons. It has brown plumage covered with white spots and a distinctive yellowish bill. This small bird prefers reed-filled marshes and shallow wetlands.
145. Australian Crake (Porzana fluminea) is commonly found throughout southeastern Australia. It has a greyish-blue breast, brown back, and white spots along its wings. This bird is very secretive and spends most of its time hidden among reeds near freshwater lakes.
146. Eurasian Moorhen (Gallinula chloropus) is occasionally seen in Australia. It has dark grey feathers, a red and yellow bill, and a white stripe on its side. It prefers freshwater wetlands and ponds, where it feeds on aquatic plants and insects.
147. Dusky Moorhen (Gallinula tenebrosa) is widespread across Australia. It has dark plumage with a red frontal shield and a yellow-tipped bill. Often seen swimming in ponds or walking along marsh edges, it feeds on vegetation and small aquatic life.
148. Eurasian Coot (Fulica atra) is a common waterbird found across Australia’s lakes and wetlands. It has black plumage with a bright white beak and forehead shield. Coots are excellent divers and primarily feed on aquatic plants and small invertebrates.
149. Australasian Swamphen (Porphyrio melanotus) is a striking bird found in wetlands throughout Australia. It has deep blue plumage, red facial shield, and long legs with large toes adapted for walking on reeds. Swamphens are social and often live in family groups.
150. Lord Howe Swamphen (Porphyrio albus) was once native to Lord Howe Island but is now extinct. It had bluish and whitish feathers and was larger than its mainland relatives. Historical records suggest it was flightless and lived in forested swamps.
151. Watercock (Gallicrex cinerea) is a rare visitor to northern Australia. It has dark slate-grey plumage and a bright red bill with a yellow tip during breeding season. It prefers marshy fields and dense vegetation near water.
152. White-breasted Waterhen (Amaurornis phoenicurus) is found in northern and eastern Australia. It has white underparts, a dark grey back, and a reddish patch near the undertail. This bold bird often ventures into open areas while searching for insects and seeds.
153. Pale-vented Bush-hen (Amaurornis moluccana) is distributed across the tropical and subtropical regions of Australia, particularly in Queensland. It has olive-brown plumage with a pale grey face and light-colored vent. The bird is shy and prefers thick vegetation near water bodies.
154. White-browed Crake (Poliolimnas cinereus) is found in northern and eastern Australia. It has greyish plumage, a white eyebrow line, and a contrasting darker crown. It feeds on aquatic insects and seeds while walking gracefully across floating vegetation.
155. Red-necked Crake (Rallina tricolor) inhabits rainforests and wetlands in northern Australia. It has rich chestnut plumage with a bright red neck and a dark back. This secretive bird spends much of its time on the forest floor foraging for insects.
156. Red-legged Crake (Rallina fasciata) is occasionally seen in northern Australia. It has rufous plumage with bold barring on its belly and bright red legs. This tropical species lives in dense, wet forests and is usually active during dawn and dusk.
157. Ruddy-breasted Crake (Zapornia fusca) is a small bird that inhabits northern Australia. It has rich chestnut-brown plumage and a greyish face and breast. Preferring marshy areas, it feeds on insects, snails, and small aquatic creatures.
158. Baillon’s Crake (Zapornia pusilla) is found across wetlands throughout Australia. It has brown upperparts with white spots and a bluish-grey breast. Despite being widespread, it is seldom seen due to its secretive behavior among dense reeds.
159. Spotless Crake (Zapornia tabuensis) lives in wetlands and swampy areas throughout Australia. It has dark grey plumage with a slight blue sheen and reddish eyes. This shy bird is rarely seen but is often heard with its soft, repetitive calls at dusk.
