May

Animal of the Day 136 May 16

The Agile Wallaby (Macropus agilis) is a common and widespread macropod found in northern Australia and parts of Papua New Guinea. It is a medium-sized wallaby characterized by its agile movements and distinctive coloration. These attractive wallabies are one of the larger species and males are significantly larger than females, typically weighing between 9 and 27 kg and measuring up to 1.5 metres in total length (including the tail). Females weigh between 7 and 16 kg and are generally shorter.

With an attractive sandy-brown to reddish-brown coat on their back and head and paler underparts, the distinctive feature is the pale stripe on their hip, which is usually quite prominent. Their ears are relatively large and reddish-brown on the outside with paler fur inside. The tail is long, well-furred, and often has a darker tip. Their limbs are long and powerful, adapted for hopping.

As their name suggests, they are agile and can move quickly and efficiently across various terrains. They are known for their speed and agility when evading predators. Agile Wallabies are adaptable and inhabit a variety of habitats, typically near water sources. They often graze in open areas at night and seek shelter in denser vegetation during the day.   

Animal of the Day 135 May 15

The Double-barred Finch (Stizoptera bichenovii) is a small and attractive finch native to Australia. They have a distinctive and striking plumage with a white face and prominent black outline forming a facial disc. 

These seriously cute finches are primarily found in dry open forests, woodlands, and grasslands near water sources, with a preference for areas with scattered trees and shrubs, as well as grassy undergrowth. They can also adapt to human-modified landscapes such as farmland, gardens, and parks, especially where there are native grasses and shrubs.   

Animal of the Day 134 May 14

The Canary Yellow-clawed Fiddler Crab (Austruca mjoebergi, formerly Uca mjoebergi) is a vibrant and easily recognizable species of fiddler crab, named for the bright yellow colour of the major claw in males. These fascinating crustaceans are known for their asymmetrical claws and the elaborate waving displays performed by males during courtship and territorial defence.  

Fiddler crabs are generally small, and this species is no exception. The carapace (the hard upper shell) of adult males typically reaches a width of around 2 to 2.5 cm, with females being slightly smaller.  

The enlarged claw of the male is used for signalling rather than feeding. The carapace of males is usually a dark olive-green or brownish, often with mottling. Females have two smaller feeding claws and a more uniform olive-green to brown carapace. The walking legs are generally a duller yellow or orange.  

Canary Yellow-clawed Fiddler Crabs are intertidal inhabitants, meaning they live in the zone between high and low tide, preferring sheltered mudflats in mangrove forests, estuaries, and tidal creeks. They dig and live in burrows in the soft mud or sand, using these for shelter from predators and extreme tidal conditions, as well as for mating.  

Animal of the Day 133 May 13

The Spotted Harrier (Circus assimilis) is a slender, medium-sized raptor with distinctive plumage and hunting behaviour. It belongs to the harrier family (Accipitridae), a group of birds of prey known for their low flight over open country while searching for prey. Adults have a striking appearance with upperparts generally a medium grey, and noticeable reddish-brown spots or streaks, particularly on the back and wing coverts. The underparts are white or pale grey, heavily marked with fine reddish-brown streaks or spots, giving them a ‘spotted’ look, hence their name. They have a characteristic white rump, a feature common to many harriers, which is conspicuous in flight. The wingtips are often darker, and they have a barred tail.   

A key identifier is the distinct facial disc of feathers around their eyes, which aids in locating prey by sound. This is sometimes described as being similar to an owl.

Spotted Harriers are adapted to open and lightly wooded habitats. Their range is widespread across mainland Australia, but its distribution is somewhat patchy and influenced by habitat availability and rainfall. They are often seen flying low over grasslands, agricultural fields, and open woodlands, quartering the ground in search of prey.

Animal of the Day 132 May 12

The Black-flanked Wallaby (Petrogale lateralis), also known as the Black-footed Rock-wallaby in some regions, is a medium-sized macropod characterized by its agility and preference for rocky habitats. It exhibits distinct black markings on its flanks and feet.   

These attractive wallabies have a stocky build with strong limbs adapted for climbing and leaping among rocks. Their fur is generally a reddish-brown to grey-brown on the back, fading to a paler grey or buff on the belly. The most distinctive features are the prominent black stripes running from the elbow to the ankle on their forelimbs and the black feet. They also have a dark stripe running from the shoulder towards the hip, which can be quite pronounced. The tail is bushy and often darker towards the tip, aiding in balance. 

Black-flanked Wallabies are obligate rock dwellers, meaning they are almost exclusively found in and around rocky outcrops, cliffs, and boulder fields. These habitats provide shelter from predators, protection from the elements, and access to food resources. They often utilize caves, crevices, and overhangs for refuge during the day. As incredibly agile animals, they can move swiftly and confidently across steep and uneven terrain with rough, textured soles and strong claws that provide excellent grip. 

Animal of the Day 131 May 11

The Black-faced Cuckooshrike (Coracina novaehollandiae) is a common and conspicuous bird found throughout much of Australia. Despite its name, it is not closely related to cuckoos or true shrikes but belongs to the family Campephagidae, which includes other cuckooshrikes and trillers.   

These striking birds have a distinctive appearance with a prominent black face mask that extends from the forehead, through the eyes, and onto the throat and upper chest. The rest of the upperparts are a smooth, medium grey, including the crown, nape, back, wings, and tail. The underparts are a paler grey, often appearing almost white on the lower belly and undertail coverts. 

Black-faced Cuckooshrikes are adaptable and inhabit a wide range of open woodlands, forests, and shrublands across Australia, but they generally avoid dense rainforests and treeless plains. Due to their relatively large size, distinctive markings, and widespread distribution, Black-faced Cuckooshrikes are often readily observed.

Animal of the Day 130 May 10

The Golden Ghost Crab (Ocypode convexa) is a striking species of ghost crab known for its sandy-yellow to golden coloration and its preference for sandy beaches in the warmer parts of Australia. They are a moderately sized ghost crab, with a carapace (the main body shell) that can reach up to 5-6 cm in width. Males tend to be slightly larger than females.

Their most distinctive feature is their overall sandy-yellow to golden colour, which provides excellent camouflage against the pale sands they inhabit. This can vary slightly depending on the environment. Like other ghost crabs, they have a squarish, box-like carapace with a pair of stalked eyes that can rotate 360 degrees, giving them excellent all-around vision. One of their claws is typically larger than the other, especially in males, which is used for signalling, fighting, and sometimes for manipulating food. The smaller claw is used for feeding. The claws are often a similar sandy-yellow colour to the body.

Golden Ghost Crabs are primarily found on sandy beaches in tropical and subtropical regions, preferring fine to medium-grained sand and are often seen on the upper parts of the beach, above the high tide mark. They dig and live in burrows in the sand, which they use for shelter from predators and the heat of the day. These burrows can be quite complex and deep.  

Animal of the Day 129 May 9

The White-winged Triller (Lalage tricolor) is a distinctive small to medium-sized passerine bird known for the striking white panels on the wings of the male. He has glossy black upperparts, head, throat, and upper chest. A prominent white patch covers most of the wing coverts, creating a very noticeable white panel on the wing in flight and at rest. His belly and undertail coverts are white. The tail is black with white outer feathers, which are often visible at the tips. He has dark eyes, a dark grey to black bill, and grey legs and feet.

The adult female has grey-brown upperparts and a grey head. Her underparts are off-white to pale buff, with fine dark streaks on the breast and flanks and the wings are also grey-brown but have two pale buff or whitish wing bars instead of the large white panel seen in males. Her tail is similar to the male's but with less distinct white edges.

White-winged Trillers are found in a variety of open habitats, often with scattered trees or shrubs but they tend to avoid dense forests and very arid, treeless deserts. Due to this preference for open habitats, White-winged Trillers can be observed in many areas across Australia.

Animal of the Day 128 May 8

The Lozenge-marked Dragon (Ctenophorus scutulatus) is a small to medium-sized species of dragon lizard endemic to Australia. As their name suggests, they have a series of prominent, dark-edged lozenge or diamond-shaped blotches running down their back, often contrasting with a lighter background colour which can be sandy brown, reddish-brown, or greyish. The flanks may have additional markings or stripes.

The base colour and intensity of the markings can vary depending on the subspecies and locality. During the breeding season, males can exhibit brighter colours, sometimes developing yellowish or reddish hues on their flanks and limbs. Females are generally less bright. The scales are small, granular scales, with a row of slightly enlarged vertebral scales forming a low crest along the back.

Lozenge-marked Dragons are typically found in semi-arid to arid zones with hard to stony soils.   

Their preferred habitats include open acacia woodlands and chenopod shrublands (saltbush and bluebush plains). They are often associated with sparse vegetation, gravelly plains, and areas with scattered rocks or small shrubs that provide shelter. This species is primarily found in Western Australia.   

Animal of the Day 127 May 7

The Star Finch (Neochmia ruficauda) is a small, striking finch native to Australia. They are easily recognizable due to their bright and distinctive colours with males having a brilliant scarlet face, throat, and upper breast. The crown and nape are olive-green. The back, wings, and tail are olive-green with prominent white spots. The lower breast and belly are yellow, also adorned with white spots. They have a small, pointed red bill and a red eye-ring. Females are generally duller in colour. 

Star Finches primarily inhabit tropical and subtropical grassy woodlands, particularly near water sources such as swamps, lagoons, and streams. They favour areas with tall grasses and sedges, often with scattered trees and shrubs that provide cover and perching sites. Distribution in Australia is restricted to the north and northeast of the continent.   

Animal of the Day 126 May 6

The Raspy Cricket belongs to the family Gryllacrididae, a group of flightless insects found predominantly in the Southern Hemisphere, with Australia boasting the highest diversity with over 120 species. They are also known as leaf-rolling crickets or wood crickets.   

Raspy Crickets typically grow to about 5 cm in length. They are usually gray to brown in colour and are characterized by their long antennae and the absence of wings in most species. A notable feature is their ability to produce silk from their mouthparts at all life stages. This silk is used to construct nests, either as linings in ground burrows or to hold leaves together to form shelters in trees or on the ground. Some species incorporate organic material like leaves and sand into their silken nests for camouflage and stability. When disturbed, raspy crickets can produce a raspy sound, likely as a defense mechanism.   

These large crickets inhabit a variety of environments and are typically nocturnal, spending the day within their constructed nests and foraging for food at night. As omnivores they eat a wide range of insects, plants, seeds and nectar. 

Animal of the Day 125 May 5

The Musk Duck (Biziura lobata) is a highly distinctive and somewhat unusual Australian native duck. It is the only living member of its genus and is known for its peculiar appearance and behaviors, especially during the breeding season. They are relatively large and stout-bodied ducks with males being significantly larger than females. They have a broad, flattened bill and a long, stiff, and spiky tail that is often held erect or fanned out.

Their plumage is generally dark brown to black, often with paler mottling or speckling. Males can appear almost entirely black during the breeding season. Adult males develop a prominent, leathery lobe or sac of skin that hangs beneath the bill. This lobe is inflated during courtship displays and can vary in size and shape. They also have a strong, musky odor, which gives the species its name. The legs are set far back on their body, making them well-adapted for swimming and diving but rather clumsy on land. They have large, lobed feet that aid in propulsion underwater.   

The male Musk Duck performs elaborate courtship displays, involving inflating the bill lobe, producing a range of unusual calls and splashes, and fanning his tail. The female will swim around him and decide if she is impressed enough to mate.  

Animal of the Day 124 May 4

The Western Hooded Scaly-foot (Pygopus nigriceps) is a distinctive legless lizard endemic to Australia. Despite lacking obvious legs, it has small, paddle-shaped hind limb flaps. Adults typically range from 45 to 55 cm in length, with females generally being larger than males. Their body colour varies from brown to reddish-brown, with desert specimens often having a more orangish hue.

A key identifying feature is the black bands across their head and neck, which can appear like a hood. This ‘hood’ includes a band across the eyes onto the lips, a dark smudge on the nostrils, and a broad band across the neck. These dark markings may fade or merge with age. Like other pygopodids, they have no forelimbs and their small hind limbs do not aid in movement. They possess well-developed, lidless eyes covered by a transparent spectacle, which they can lick clean with their broad, fleshy tongue.

The Western Hooded Scaly-foot favours dry, open habitats, particularly sandy deserts vegetated with Triodia (spinifex grass). They shelter under rocks, woody debris, in grass tussocks, soil cracks, abandoned burrows, insect holes, and termite mounds.   

Animal of the Day 123 May 3

The Red-collared Lorikeet (Trichoglossus rubritorquis) is a vibrant and noisy medium-sized parrot belonging to the lorikeet tribe. It was previously considered a subspecies of the Rainbow Lorikeet (Trichoglossus haematodus) but is now recognized as a distinct species. They are strikingly colourful birds with a deep blue head, contrasting with a vivid orange-red collar that extends around the nape of the neck and upper breast. The rest of the underparts are generally green.

Like their Rainbow cousins, Red-collared Lorikeets are very vocal, producing a constant stream of loud, screeching, and chattering calls, especially when in flocks. However, it has a more restricted distribution within Australia, primarily found across the northern parts of the country.

Animal of the Day 122 May 2

The Common Knob-tailed Gecko (Nephrurus amyae) is a fascinating and distinctive species of gecko endemic to Australia. It belongs to a group of geckos known for their unique knob-like tails and large eyes. They are relatively small to medium-sized geckos, typically reaching a total length of about 12-15 cm, with the tail accounting for a significant portion of this length.

Their most striking feature is their tail, which is short, stout, and ends in a prominent, rounded knob, which is thought to play a role in fat storage. The body are somewhat flattened and robust. With a range of earthy colours, they often have patterns of irregular bands or blotches in shades of reddish-brown, orange-brown, or grey against a paler background. These patterns provide excellent camouflage in their arid habitats. The skin has a slightly rough or textured appearance. Lastly, they possess large, prominent eyes with vertical pupils, characteristic of nocturnal geckos, giving them excellent night vision.   

Common Knob-tailed Geckos are terrestrial and primarily inhabit arid and semi-arid environments, commonly found in spinifex grasslands, mulga woodlands, rocky outcrops, and areas with sandy or gravelly soils. Usually they often shelter in burrows (either self-excavated or abandoned by other animals), under rocks, or within leaf litter during the day to escape the heat.   

Animal of the Day 121 May 1

The Tawny Frogmouth (Podargus strigoides) is a master of camouflage and a common nocturnal bird found throughout most of Australia. Despite their owl-like appearance, they are not closely related to owls but belong to the nightjar family (Podargidae).   

Tawny Frogmouths have a stocky build with a large, broad head and a wide, frog-like mouth – hence their name. Their eyes are large and yellow or orange-red, and they have a relatively small bill that is hooked at the tip. Plumage is predominantly grey, white, black, and rufous, intricately patterned to resemble tree branches and bark. This exceptional camouflage allows them to blend seamlessly into their surroundings during the day. They have a somewhat upright stance when perched.   

Tawny Frogmouths are adaptable and inhabit a wide variety of wooded habitats across Australia. Found in all states and territories of Australia, except for some of the driest central desert regions where they may be less common or absent.