Australia is home to a vast array of unique and fascinating native birds, many of which can be found nowhere else on the planet. From brightly coloured parrots to majestic birds of prey, the diversity of birdlife in Australia is truly remarkable. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the most iconic and beloved native birds in Australia.

Kookaburra – The kookaburra is a large, carnivorous bird that is native to Australia and New Guinea. Known for their distinctive laugh-like call, kookaburras are often found perched on branches or telephone wires in suburban areas. They are known to feed on a variety of prey, including snakes, lizards, insects, and small mammals.

Emu – The emu is the largest native bird in Australia and is found throughout most of the country. They are flightless and have distinctive, shaggy feathers that are often used in traditional Aboriginal art. Emus are known for their speed and agility, and are capable of running at speeds of up to 50 kilometers per hour.

Rainbow Lorikeet – The rainbow lorikeet is a brightly colored parrot that is found along the eastern coast of Australia. With their vibrant plumage and playful personalities, they are a favorite among birdwatchers and pet owners alike. Rainbow lorikeets feed primarily on nectar and pollen from flowers, and can often be seen flitting from tree to tree in search of their next meal.

Cockatoo – The cockatoo is a family of parrots that are native to Australia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea. With their distinctive crests and large size, cockatoos are often considered some of the most charismatic and captivating birds in the world. They are highly intelligent and can be trained to perform a wide variety of tricks and behaviours.

Wedge-tailed Eagle – The wedge-tailed eagle is one of the largest birds of prey in the world and is native to Australia. With a wingspan of up to 2.8 meters, they are capable of hunting and killing a wide range of prey, including kangaroos, wallabies, and other large mammals. Wedge-tailed eagles are often seen soaring high above the landscape, scanning the ground below for potential prey.

Galah – The galah is a pink and grey cockatoo that is found throughout most of Australia. With their playful personalities and distinctive calls, they are a popular bird to keep as a pet. In the wild, galahs are often found in flocks, feeding on seeds and grains from grasses and trees.

Southern Cassowary – The southern cassowary is a large, flightless bird that is native to the tropical rainforests of Queensland and New Guinea. With their distinctive helmet-like crest and bright blue neck, they are often considered some of the most iconic and fascinating birds in Australia. Southern cassowaries are highly territorial and are known to be very aggressive towards humans.

Superb Fairy-wren – The superb fairy-wren is a small bird that is found throughout most of Australia. With their striking blue and black plumage, they are often considered one of the most beautiful birds in the world. Superb fairy-wrens are highly social and are often seen flitting from branch to branch in small flocks.

Australian Pelican – The Australian pelican is a large waterbird that is found throughout Australia and parts of Indonesia. With their distinctive, oversized bills and striking white and black plumage, they are a popular sight along Australia’s many waterways. Australian pelicans are highly adapted for life on the water and are capable of catching fish in their bill pouches.

Sulphur-Crested Cockatoo – The sulphur-crested cockatoo is a large white bird with a distinctive yellow crest. They are found in woodlands, forests, and urban areas throughout Australia. Cockatoos are known for their loud screeching calls and are popular pets. They are omnivores and feed on nuts, seeds, insects, and small animals.

Australian King Parrot – The Australian king parrot is a beautiful bird with a bright red head, green body, and blue wings. They are found in rainforests and woodlands throughout eastern Australia. King parrots are seed eaters and feed on fruits, seeds, and nuts.

Barking Owl – The barking owl is a medium-sized owl with a distinctive bark-like call. They are found in woodland and forest areas throughout Australia. Barking owls are carnivores and feed on small mammals, insects, and reptiles.

Australian Magpie – The Australian magpie is a black and white bird with a beautiful singing voice. They are found in urban areas and woodlands throughout Australia.