Regent Bowerbird
Male
Female
Scientific Name: Sericulus chrysocephalus
Size: 24 to 28 cm
What does it look and sound like?
The Regent Bowerbird is a relatively small, slender bowerbird. It has a long, straight thin bill, which is yellow in the adult male and dark brown in the female. Both sexes are generally inconspicuous, which is surprising given the male’s striking plumage. The majority of the body is deep velvety black, with rich golden yellow plumage on the head, nape and wings. The young male’s eye is initially brown, but turns to bright yellow in the second year. The female plumage is quite opposite to the male, being generally brown-black, with light brown scallops on her upperback and underparts. There is a sooty-black patch on the hind-crown and occasionally a second band on the nape and the eyes are yellowish-brown. The voice, which is seldom heard, includes harsh or chattering notes and some mimicry.
Where is it found?
The Regent Bowerbird occurs from central eastern Queensland to north-eastern New South Wales.
What are its habitats & habits?
The Regent Bowerbird occurs largely in largely in rainforest and neighbouring habitats, where the male constructs a bower of parallel walls. It feeds mainly of native fruits but may enter orchards and gardens for cultivated species. Males are most noticeable during the breeding season when they are displaying, but are otherwise quiet and secretive.
This species features in my book Australia’s Birdwatching Megaspots
