Magpie Lark/Mud Lark-male

Description:

A about 30cm long, these birds look very much like the larger magpies in Australia. Hence the name Magpie Lark, except in Victoria and west Australia where the are called mudlarks. This bird is male - distinguishable from the female by its black throat and white "eyebrow"

Habitat:

grasslands, cleared lands

Notes:

This mudlark was spotted on the pavement in a residential estate. His partner ducked under a parked car just as I was about to photograph her - maybe next time. Mudlarks are said to pair for life, mostly. They are very territorial and can swoop on any trespasser. Although a common bird, they do make a nice distraction in the ever growing housing estates.. The reference has interesting information on behaviour and breeding habits.