I understand the rufous morph of the Black Butcherbird occurs only in the race Cracticus quoyi rufescens. What is not clear is whether this morph is confined to juveniles/immatures or if it is retained until adulthood. One source (Simpson & Day 7th edition) mentions in passing that the species may breed in brown plumage. If so, that suggests to me that the rufous morph may be permanent. Do rufous morph Black Butcherbirds turn black as adults or not? What is the evidence that they do? Thanks in advance. — Joseph Morlan, Pacifica, CA “It turns out we’re very good at not seeing things” – Jack Hitt
Birding-Aus mailing list
Birding-Aus@birding-aus.org
To change settings or unsubscribe visit:
http://birding-aus.org/mailman/listinfo/birding-aus_birding-aus.org
Helen, Thanks. I received a compelling photo showing a rufous morph molting in black body feathers. I think that should settle the matter. The rufous morph is temporary and occurs only in juveniles and immatures. Thanks to all for clarifying this. Sent from my iPad
Birding-Aus mailing list
Birding-Aus@birding-aus.org
To change settings or unsubscribe visit:
http://birding-aus.org/mailman/listinfo/birding-aus_birding-aus.org
Hello Joseph The Black butcherbirds around us (Mission Beach, Far North Queensland) have rufous young but they change to black sometime after parents have sent them off to fend for themselves it seems. These are skulkers that hide in our garden hunting our lizards but spend most time in the forest behind us so it’s difficult to see how the change happens. All the birds that sing and carol well are black; though I have watched one browny-rufous bird sing from a tree nearby some time ago; a short song though and I think it must be all black now as we have not noticed it. Helen < ')/////==<
Birding-Aus mailing list
Birding-Aus@birding-aus.org
To change settings or unsubscribe visit:
http://birding-aus.org/mailman/listinfo/birding-aus_birding-aus.org