What is the Apostlebird, and what are some of its common alternative names?

The Apostlebird, scientifically known as *Struthidea cinerea*, is a bird species native to Australia. It is characterized by its quick movements and predominantly gray or black plumage. Common alternative names for this bird include the grey jumper, lousy jack, and happy family.

What is the scientific name of the Apostlebird?

The scientific name of the Apostlebird is *Struthidea cinerea*. This binomial nomenclature follows the standard system for naming species, with *Struthidea* being the genus and *cinerea* being the specific epithet.

What is the approximate size of an Apostlebird?

The Apostlebird measures approximately 33 centimeters (13 inches) in length. This measurement gives a good indication of its medium-sized stature within the avian world.

What are the primary colors of an Apostlebird?

The Apostlebird is primarily a dark gray bird. Its head, neck, and breast feathers are brushed with a paler gray-white, and its wings are brownish.

Where is the Apostlebird native to?

The Apostlebird is native to Australia. Its natural range spans across inland eastern parts of the continent.

What kind of environment does the Apostlebird typically inhabit?

Apostlebirds typically inhabit dry open woodlands. They are often found in areas with specific tree types like Callitris in New South Wales or Casuarina in Queensland, as well as Lancewood-Bulwaddi communities in the Northern Territory.

What does the Apostlebird primarily eat?

The Apostlebird primarily eats insects and seeds. It forages for these food sources at or near ground level.

Why is the Apostlebird named after the Biblical apostles?

The Apostlebird is named after the twelve Biblical apostles, the followers of Jesus Christ, because they often travel in groups of about 12 individuals. This gregarious behavior is a defining characteristic of the species.

What is the typical size of the groups Apostlebirds travel in?

Apostlebirds typically travel in family groups that can range from 6 to 20 individuals. These smaller groups may join together to form larger feeding flocks, sometimes exceeding 40 birds.

Who first described the Apostlebird, and in what year?

The Apostlebird was first described by the ornithologist John Gould in 1837. Gould's work was foundational in documenting Australian bird species.

What is the meaning of the Latin specific epithet *cinerea*?

The Latin specific epithet *cinerea* means grey. This refers to the predominant color of the Apostlebird's plumage.

In which genus is the Apostlebird classified?

The Apostlebird is classified in its own genus, *Struthidea*. This indicates that it is the sole species within that particular genus.

What family does the Apostlebird belong to, and what is this family known for?

The Apostlebird belongs to the family Corcoracidae, which is commonly known as the mud-nest builders. This family is characterized by its members' unique nesting habits.

What other species is in the same family as the Apostlebird, and how does it compare behaviorally?

The only other species in the family Corcoracidae is the white-winged chough (*Corcorax melanorhamphos*). While differing in appearance, the white-winged chough exhibits many behavioral similarities to the Apostlebird.

To which broader group of birds is the family Corcoracidae now placed?

The family Corcoracidae, which includes the Apostlebird, is now placed within a narrower core corvine group. This group also contains birds such as crows, ravens, shrikes, birds of paradise, fantails, monarch flycatchers, and drongos.

Besides Apostlebird, what other colloquial names are given to *Struthidea cinerea*?

In addition to Apostlebird, *Struthidea cinerea* is known by several colloquial names, including grey jumper, lousy jack, happy jack, and happy family. These names often reflect its appearance or social behavior.

What is the reason behind the colloquial name lousy jack for the Apostlebird?

The colloquial name lousy jack for the Apostlebird is attributed to the heavy louse infestations the birds can experience. This name highlights a common parasitic issue faced by the species.

What is the origin of the name happy families for this bird?

The name happy families for the Apostlebird likely stems from its gregarious nature and the cooperative social structure observed within its family groups. These groups often function cohesively, resembling a happy family.

Describe the physical appearance of the Apostlebird, including its size, color, and specific features like its tail and wings.

The Apostlebird is a predominantly dark gray bird measuring about 33 cm (13 inches) in length. It possesses a long black tail that can appear greenish in sunlight, and its wings are brownish in color.

What color are the Apostlebird's legs, bill, and eyes?

The Apostlebird has black legs and a black bill. Its eyes are typically brown or white.

Across which regions of Australia can the Apostlebird be found?

The Apostlebird's natural range extends across inland eastern Australia. This includes areas from the mallee regions of northern Victoria and eastern South Australia, north through New South Wales and central-western Queensland, up to the Gulf Country. There is also an isolated population in the Northern Territory.

What specific types of woodlands does the Apostlebird prefer in its habitat?

The Apostlebird prefers dry open woodlands. Specific examples of preferred habitats include areas with Callitris trees in New South Wales, Casuarina trees in Queensland, and Lancewood-Bulwaddi communities in the Northern Territory.

What type of social structure characterizes Apostlebirds' living arrangements?

Apostlebirds live in socially organized, cooperative breeding groups. These groups typically consist of one breeding pair and their offspring or other related and unrelated adult birds that act as helpers.

What is meant by cooperative breeding in the context of Apostlebirds?

Cooperative breeding in Apostlebirds means that most members of the social group participate in raising the young. This includes helping to build the nest, incubate eggs, defend the nest site, feed the chicks, and keep the nest clean.

What role do non-breeding members of a group play in raising young?

Non-breeding members of an Apostlebird group, often offspring from previous seasons, act as helpers. They contribute significantly to the breeding process by assisting with nest construction, incubation, defense, feeding the chicks, and maintaining nest hygiene.

How does the social structure of Apostlebirds change between winter and the breeding season?

Apostlebirds exhibit a fission-fusion social structure. In winter, they flock together in larger groups, but as the breeding season approaches, these large groups break apart into smaller breeding units.

What is a fission-fusion society as it applies to Apostlebirds?

A fission-fusion society, as seen in Apostlebirds, describes a social system where group composition and size change frequently. During winter, groups merge fuse into larger flocks, and during the breeding season, they split fission into smaller, independent breeding groups.

When is the typical breeding season for Apostlebirds?

The breeding season for Apostlebirds generally occurs from August to December. This period aligns with favorable environmental conditions for raising young.

Describe the construction and location of an Apostlebird's nest.

The Apostlebird constructs a deep, cup-shaped nest made from grasses bound together with mud, and sometimes manure. This nest is typically built in a tree fork, situated up to seven or eight meters above the ground.

What is the typical clutch size for Apostlebirds, and what do the eggs look like?

An Apostlebird clutch usually contains three to five eggs. These eggs are pale blue-white, sparsely splotched with shades of brown and lavender, and are tapered oval in shape.

Is the Apostlebird considered threatened under Australia's national environmental law?

No, the Apostlebird is not listed as threatened under the Australian Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. This national legislation does not currently classify the species as endangered or vulnerable.

How does the conservation status of the Apostlebird vary across different Australian states?

The conservation status of the Apostlebird can differ depending on the specific state within Australia. While not nationally threatened, it may have different protection levels at the state level.

Has an Action Statement been prepared for the Apostlebird under Victoria's Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act?

No, an Action Statement for the recovery and future management of the Apostlebird has not yet been prepared under Victoria's Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act. This indicates that specific management plans for the species in Victoria are still pending.

Was the Apostlebird included in Victoria's 2007 advisory list of threatened vertebrate fauna?

No, the Apostlebird was not listed as a threatened species on Victoria's 2007 advisory list of threatened vertebrate fauna. This suggests that at that specific time, it was not considered a priority for state-level threatened species protection in Victoria.

What is the current IUCN conservation status for the Apostlebird?

The current conservation status for the Apostlebird, according to the IUCN Red List, is Least Concern. This classification indicates that the species is widespread and abundant enough not to be considered at risk of extinction.

What are the common names for the family Corcoracidae?

The family Corcoracidae, to which the Apostlebird belongs, is commonly known as the mud-nest builders. This name refers to their distinctive nesting behavior.

What is the scientific name for the white-winged chough, and how does it relate to the Apostlebird?

The scientific name for the white-winged chough is *Corcorax melanorhamphos*. This bird is the only other member of the Corcoracidae family besides the Apostlebird (*Struthidea cinerea*), and they share many behavioral similarities despite their different appearances.

How does the Apostlebird's diet of insects and seeds relate to its foraging behavior?

The Apostlebird's diet of insects and seeds directly influences its foraging behavior, as it roams woodlands and eats these food items at or near ground level. This ground-level foraging is a key aspect of its ecological niche.

What is the significance of the Apostlebird's harsh scolding or grating calls?

The Apostlebird's harsh scolding or grating calls contribute to its plethora of colloquial names and are part of its communication. While the text does not specify the exact function, such calls in birds often serve purposes like alarm signaling, territorial defense, or maintaining group cohesion.

What are the typical dimensions of an Apostlebird's egg?

The eggs of the Apostlebird typically measure 22 mm by 29 mm. These dimensions are characteristic of the species' reproductive output.

What colors are present on the Apostlebird's wings?

The wings of the Apostlebird are described as brownish. This coloration contrasts slightly with the bird's predominantly gray body.

What is the scientific name for the genus Struthidea?

The scientific name for the genus that includes the Apostlebird is *Struthidea*. This genus name is unique to this bird species.

What is the scientific name for the family Corcoracidae?

The scientific name for the family that includes the Apostlebird is Corcoracidae. This family is also known as the mud-nest builders.

What is the scientific name for the order Passeriformes?

The scientific name for the order that includes the Apostlebird is Passeriformes. This order encompasses the perching birds, which constitute the largest order of birds.

What is the scientific name for the class Aves?

The scientific name for the class that includes the Apostlebird is Aves. This class encompasses all birds.

What is the scientific name for the phylum Chordata?

The scientific name for the phylum that includes the Apostlebird is Chordata. This phylum includes all animals with a notochord, which includes vertebrates.

What is the scientific name for the kingdom Animalia?

The scientific name for the kingdom that includes the Apostlebird is Animalia. This kingdom encompasses all animals.

What is the meaning of the term monotypic in relation to the genus Struthidea?

The term monotypic means that the genus *Struthidea* contains only one species. In this case, the only species within the *Struthidea* genus is the Apostlebird (*Struthidea cinerea*).

What is the scientific name for the white-winged chough?

The scientific name for the white-winged chough is *Corcorax melanorhamphos*. This bird is the only other member of the Corcoracidae family besides the Apostlebird.

Apostlebird Wiki: The Apostlebird: An Ornithological Deep Dive into Social Dynamics and Taxonomy

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Taxonomic Classification

Scientific Classification

The Apostlebird, scientifically designated as Struthidea cinerea, occupies a distinct position within the avian phylogenetic tree. Its classification reflects its evolutionary relationships and unique characteristics.

The detailed taxonomic hierarchy is as follows:

Scientific Classification
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Chordata
Class:	Aves
Order:	Passeriformes
Family:	Corcoracidae
Genus:	Struthidea
Species:	S. cinerea

The genus Struthidea is monotypic, meaning it contains only this single species. It is placed within the family Corcoracidae, commonly known as the Australian mudnesters, alongside the white-winged chough (Corcorax melanorhamphos).

Binomial Nomenclature

The binomial name, Struthidea cinerea, was established by the renowned ornithologist John Gould in 1837. The genus name, Struthidea, is derived from Greek roots, while the specific epithet, cinerea, is Latin for "grey," aptly describing the bird's predominant coloration.

Conservation Status

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) currently classifies the Apostlebird as a species of Least Concern. This designation reflects a stable population trend across its range, indicating that the species is not currently facing significant threats of extinction.

Note: While globally stable, conservation status can vary regionally. It is listed as threatened in Victoria under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act (1988).

Morphological Description

Size and Plumage

The Apostlebird (Struthidea cinerea) is a medium-sized passerine, typically measuring around 33 cm (13 inches) in length. Its plumage is predominantly a dark grey, with the wings exhibiting brownish tones. In direct sunlight, the grey feathers, particularly on the head, neck, and breast, can appear brushed with paler grey-white. The tail is long and black, often displaying a subtle greenish iridescence under specific lighting conditions.

Physical Characteristics

Distinctive physical features include its black bill and legs, which contrast with its grey body. The eyes can appear brown or white, contributing to its overall appearance. Its build is adapted for its ground-roaming foraging habits.

Colloquial Names

The Apostlebird's gregarious nature and distinctive vocalizations have earned it a variety of colloquial names. These include "grey jumper," "lousy jack" (reportedly due to frequent louse infestations), "happy jack," and "happy family." These names reflect its social behavior and common observations by local inhabitants.

Geographic Distribution & Habitat

Range and Distribution

The natural range of the Apostlebird is extensive across inland eastern Australia. Its distribution spans from the mallee regions of northern Victoria and eastern South Australia, extending northward through New South Wales and into central-western Queensland. An isolated population is also found in the Northern Territory.

Preferred Habitat

This species exhibits a strong preference for dry, open woodlands. It is frequently observed in areas characterized by stands of Callitris (cypress pines) in New South Wales and Casuarina (she-oaks) in Queensland. In the Northern Territory, it is associated with Lancewood-Bulwaddi communities. The Apostlebird typically forages for insects and seeds at or near ground level.

Cooperative Breeding and Social Structure

Cooperative Breeding System

Apostlebirds are characterized by a complex social structure centered around cooperative breeding. Typically, a breeding group consists of a single breeding pair, accompanied by their offspring from previous seasons who act as helpers, along with potentially unrelated adult birds. This social system is crucial for reproductive success.

Nest Construction and Incubation

The majority of group members actively participate in constructing the distinctive mud nest. This deep, cup-shaped structure is typically built from grasses bound with mud or, occasionally, manure, and is situated in a tree fork, often several meters above the ground. All members share in the incubation of the eggs, demonstrating a high degree of collective investment.

Parental Care and Group Dynamics

Following hatching, all members of the cooperative group contribute to feeding the chicks and maintaining the cleanliness of the nest. This shared responsibility ensures the survival and development of the young. Apostlebirds exhibit a fission-fusion social dynamic, forming larger flocks during winter months and breaking into smaller, distinct breeding groups as the breeding season approaches.

Conservation Status & Regional Variations

National and Global Status

On a national level, the Apostlebird is not listed as threatened under Australia's Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. Globally, the species is classified as 'Least Concern' by the IUCN, indicating a generally stable population trend across its broad distribution.

State-Level Designations

Despite its favorable global status, regional variations exist. Notably, the Apostlebird is listed as threatened in the state of Victoria under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act (1988). This designation highlights the importance of monitoring local populations and implementing appropriate conservation strategies where specific pressures may be present.

Scholarly References

External Resources

Further Information

Additional resources provide further insights into the Apostlebird:

Wikimedia Commons: Features a collection of media related to Struthidea cinerea, including images and sound recordings. Access Media (opens in new tab).
Internet Bird Collection: Offers a repository of Apostlebird videos, photographs, and audio recordings. View Media Collection (opens in new tab).
Monarch Bay: Provides detailed information on Apostlebirds and their family. Explore Apostlebird Information (opens in new tab).

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References

Reader's Digest. 1997. "Complete Book of Australian Birds". Reader's Digest (Australia).

A full list of references for this article are available at the Apostlebird Wikipedia page

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This document has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence system, drawing upon publicly available data from sources such as Wikipedia. It is intended solely for advanced educational and informational purposes, suitable for individuals pursuing higher education, such as Master's degree candidates.

This content is not a substitute for professional ornithological or ecological expertise. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness based on the provided source material, users should consult peer-reviewed scientific literature and expert consultations for critical research or decision-making. The AI and its creators are not liable for any inaccuracies, omissions, or actions taken based on the information presented herein.

The Apostlebird: A Study in Avian Social Dynamics

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Taxonomic Classification 🧬

📚 Scientific Classification

🏷️ Binomial Nomenclature

⚖️ Conservation Status

Morphological Description 🎨

📏 Size and Plumage

🦵 Physical Characteristics

🗣️ Colloquial Names

Geographic Distribution & Habitat 🌍

📍 Range and Distribution

🌳 Preferred Habitat

Cooperative Breeding and Social Structure 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

🤝 Cooperative Breeding System

🏗️ Nest Construction and Incubation

🍼 Parental Care and Group Dynamics

Conservation Status & Regional Variations 🛡️

📈 National and Global Status

⚖️ State-Level Designations

Scholarly References 📖

External Resources 🔗

🌐 Further Information

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Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Taxonomic Classification

Scientific Classification

Binomial Nomenclature

Conservation Status

Morphological Description

Size and Plumage

Physical Characteristics

Colloquial Names

Geographic Distribution & Habitat

Range and Distribution

Preferred Habitat

Cooperative Breeding and Social Structure

Cooperative Breeding System

Nest Construction and Incubation

Parental Care and Group Dynamics

Conservation Status & Regional Variations

National and Global Status

State-Level Designations

Scholarly References

External Resources

Further Information

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice for Scholars