Discover Nature at JCU Animals Birds by scientific name Burhinus grallarius

Burhinus grallarius

bush stone-curlew

(Bush Stone-Curlew)

FAMILY

Burhinidae

Species

Burhinus grallarius

Common name

Bush Stone-Curlew

Main colour

Buff to light brown

Distinctive feature

Colour and mournful wailing voice at night, body 55 cm

Campus

Cairns, Townsville

Description

Several pairs often accompanied by chicks are found on both campuses but are particularly common on the Townsville campus. These buff/light brownish-coloured birds with long thin legs and thick knees, blend in well with their surrounding. When danger threatens they become rigid and may flatten themselves on the ground. They become active at night when their distinctive mournful wail is often heard.

Additional Images

Curlew familyCurlew camouflage Daytime roosting under overhanging branchesparent and chick