Restless Flycatcher

Description:

Also known as Scissor Grinder because of the sound it makes similar to scissors grinding. Male & female are similar in colour (deep grey to black with white front, belly, collar, & grow to just over 20cm. Similar to a Willie-Wagtail but without the white eyebrow. Feeds on insects often caught in the air - the bird has the ability to hover & target prey. It also wags sideways on its perch similar to Willie-Wagtails for which it often mistaken. The species has other notes in its call repertoire that make it a pleasure to hear including loud whistling notes.

Habitat:

Found throughout eastern, northern & south west western Australia in scrubby woodland & open woodland. This one found with its mate in dry woodland environment, but spending lots of time near the house & on the clothesline hence the wires in the photograph.