Grey Butcherbird, a photo from Western Australia, West

Photographer's Note

Butcherbirds are common in most part of Australia. They are aggressive predators feeding on small animals, including birds, lizards and insects, as well as some fruits and seeds.

They get their name from their habit of hanging captured prey on a hook or in a tree fork, or crevice.

I found this one in my parent's backyard.

Here's what they sound like.

http://birdsinbackyards.net/images/audio/cracticus-torquatus.mp3

EvieG, jhm has marked this note useful

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Sonata11 (34119) 2011-08-06 20:34

Hello Stephen,
very nicely captured this bird. Great composition and vertical format. Fantastic management of light and colors. Fantastic sharpness, super clarity. Wonderful work. I love it. Awesome.
All the best and have a nice WE,
Barbara

EvieG (21) 2011-08-06 22:44 [Comment]

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corjan3 (2109) 2011-08-08 6:28

Hello Steve,
Beautiful image of this butcherbird and in great sharpness. Butcherbirds are also common here in South Africa but not easy to capture on camera in thw wild. Well done.
Neels

daddo (28748) 2011-08-10 4:09

Hi Stephen. I love the call of the butcherbird- we hear them often up here.Great close study of this often shy and quick creature. the shape of the eye reminds me of the old TV screes.The reception seems to be very clear. I passed the idea of a get together to Andrew, but got no reaction. I shall be leaving at the start of September. Still reckon Montsalvat would be good. Best wishes. Klaudio.

williewhistler (16606) 2011-08-25 3:02

Hello Stephen,the lovely detail in the plumage as well as the ultra sharp beak and sparkling eye make this a super Natural history shot.
A real beauty.
Best regards Les.

jhm (211738) 2011-08-25 4:10

Hello Stephen,

I can see the photographer in the eye of the butcherbird.
The family in Europe are also not brave, also they eat the small animals, including birds.
Wonderful close up picture with high quality.
Also colors and presentation are excellent done.
Nice made and excellent composition. TFS.

Best regards,
John.