What is the approximate number of bird species recorded in Australia as of 2014, and what proportion are considered endemic?

As of 2014, Australia had 898 recorded bird species. Of these, over 45% are classified as Australian endemics, meaning they are found exclusively within Australia and its territories.

How many of Australia's recorded bird species are classified as vagrant or accidental visitors?

Out of the 898 bird species recorded in Australia as of 2014, 165 are considered vagrant or accidental visitors, meaning they are not regular inhabitants of the region.

What potential threat does climate change pose to Australian bird species by the year 2100?

It has been suggested that climate change could lead to the extinction of up to 10% of Australia's bird species by the year 2100, highlighting a significant conservation concern.

Can you describe the size range of Australian bird species, providing specific examples?

Australian bird species exhibit a considerable range in size. The smallest is the weebill, measuring approximately 8 cm (3.1 inches) in length, while the largest is the flightless emu.

How does the appearance of certain Australian birds, like wrens and robins, compare to their Northern Hemisphere counterparts, and what is the scientific explanation for these similarities?

Australian wrens and robins may look and behave similarly to their Northern Hemisphere namesakes. However, this resemblance is not due to close genetic relatedness but is an example of convergent evolution, where unrelated species develop similar traits due to adapting to similar ecological niches or environmental pressures.

What is convergent evolution, and how does it manifest in Australian bird species compared to those in other parts of the world?

Convergent evolution is the process where different species independently evolve similar traits or characteristics, often as adaptations to similar environments or lifestyles. For instance, Australian honeyeaters resemble Northern Hemisphere sunbirds, sittellas resemble nuthatches, Australasian babblers resemble scimitar babblers, Australian robins resemble Old World chats, and Scrub robins resemble thrushes, all due to filling similar ecological roles.

What are the six primary categories used for classifying Australian birds?

The six main categories used to classify Australian birds are: Old endemics, Corvid radiation, Eurasian colonists, Recent introductions, Migratory shorebirds, and Seabirds.

What characterizes the 'Old endemics' category of Australian birds?

The 'Old endemics' are defined as long-established non-passerine birds with ancient origins tracing back to the supercontinent Gondwana. Prominent examples within this group include the emu, cassowary, and the diverse parrot family.

What is the 'Corvid radiation' classification, and which bird families does it encompass?

The Corvid radiation category includes passerine birds that are unique to the Australasian region and are descended from the crow family. This group has diversified significantly and occupies a wide range of ecological roles and sizes, featuring birds such as wrens, robins, magpies, thornbills, pardalotes, honeyeaters, treecreepers, lyrebirds, birds-of-paradise, and bowerbirds.

Which types of birds are identified as 'Eurasian colonists' in Australia?

Eurasian colonists refer to bird species that arrived in Australia more recently from Eurasia. This category includes birds like plovers, swallows, larks, thrushes, cisticolas, sunbirds, and certain birds of prey.

What are the defining features of 'Recent introductions' among Australian birds, and what impact do they have?

'Recent introductions' are bird species that have been brought to Australia by humans. While some, such as the European goldfinch and greenfinch, appear to coexist with native fauna, others, like the common starling, blackbird, house and tree sparrows, and the common myna, are considered more detrimental to the native ecosystem.

Which group of birds is classified as 'Migratory shorebirds' in the Australian context?

Migratory shorebirds in Australia belong to the families Scolopacidae and Charadriidae. These species breed in the northern parts of Asia and Alaska and then migrate to Australasia to spend the non-breeding season.

What is the primary reference list for all bird species found in Australia and its territories?

The primary reference list covering all birds of Australia and its territories is titled the 'List of birds of Australia'.

What geographical areas are covered by the HANZAB list, and what does the acronym stand for?

The HANZAB list, which stands for the Handbook of Australian, New Zealand and Antarctic Birds, provides comprehensive coverage for birds in Australia, New Zealand, Antarctica, and the surrounding oceanic and subantarctic islands.

Where can a specific list of bird species endemic to Australia be found?

A dedicated list of bird species that are endemic to Australia can be found under the title 'List of endemic birds of Australia'.

Name at least three state or regional bird lists mentioned in the text that provide specific avian information for Australian areas.

Three state or regional bird lists mentioned include the List of birds of Victoria, Australia; the List of Western Australian birds; and the List of birds of South Australia. Other examples provided cover regions like Queensland, Tasmania, New South Wales & Lord Howe Island, and specific islands such as Ashmore Reef, Christmas Island, and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands.

What is BirdLife Australia, and what were its predecessor organizations?

BirdLife Australia is identified as the leading Australian non-governmental organization (NGO) dedicated to birds, birding, ornithology, and conservation. It was formed through the merger of the Royal Australasian Ornithologists Union and Bird Observation & Conservation Australia.

What is the stated purpose of the Australian Bird Study Association?

The Australian Bird Study Association serves as an organization for individuals involved in bird banding and other aspects of field ornithology.

What is Birding-Aus, as mentioned in the text?

Birding-Aus is described as an Internet mailing list focused on discussions related to Australian birds.

Identify two national organizations in Australia that are dedicated to birds.

Two national organizations mentioned are BirdLife Australia and the Australian Bird Study Association.

Name at least three regional or state-level bird observer groups operating in Australia.

Examples of regional or state-level bird observer groups include the Canberra Ornithologists Group in the Australian Capital Territory, Birding NSW in New South Wales, and Birds SA in South Australia. Other mentioned groups include Birds Australia Capricornia in Queensland and Birds Australia Western Australia.

What is the significance of the Handbook of Australian, New Zealand and Antarctic Birds (HANZAB) within ornithological references?

The Handbook of Australian, New Zealand and Antarctic Birds (HANZAB) is considered the foremost scientific reference work for birds in its specified region, comprising seven volumes.

Which publication is cited as a comprehensive survey of the conservation status of Australian bird species, including strategies for conservation and recovery?

The publication identified as a comprehensive survey of the conservation status of Australian species, including costed conservation and recovery strategies, is The Action Plan for Australian Birds 2000, authored by Garnett and Crowley.

What was historically considered the standard general reference for Australian birds, and is it still considered up-to-date?

The Reader's Digest Complete Book of Australian Birds was once the standard general reference for Australian birds. However, it is now considered somewhat dated, although its second edition from 1986 is still available in print.

List three authoritative field guides for Australian birds mentioned in the text.

Three authoritative field guides mentioned are Pizzey's Field Guide to the Birds of Australia, Slater's The Slater Field Guide to Australian Birds, and Simpson and Day's Field Guide to the Birds of Australia.

What notable information is provided in the 'Parasites' section regarding avian diseases in Australia?

The 'Parasites' section highlights that Australia is free from several Apicomplexan parasites commonly found worldwide. Specifically, certain species of avian haemoproteids and avian Plasmodium species are absent in Australia.

Which specific types of Apicomplexan parasites are noted as being absent in Australia among bird populations?

The text specifies that several species of both avian haemoproteids and avian Plasmodium species, which are types of Apicomplexan parasites, are absent in Australia.

What does the image caption 'A flock of galahs' describe?

The image caption describes a flock of galahs, which are a type of bird native to Australia.

What bird is depicted in the image accompanied by the caption 'A cockatiel'?

The image accompanied by the caption 'A cockatiel' depicts a cockatiel, a popular species of parrot known for its distinctive crest.

What bird is identified in the image with the caption 'A kookaburra'?

The image identified with the caption 'A kookaburra' shows a kookaburra, a well-known Australian bird famous for its call.

What type of bird is illustrated in the gallery under the caption 'Wedgetail eagle'?

The gallery illustrates a Wedgetail eagle, which is Australia's largest bird of prey.

What bird is identified in the gallery with the caption 'Forest kingfisher'?

The gallery identifies a Forest kingfisher, a bird species known for its vibrant plumage and insectivorous habits.

What bird is shown in the gallery with the caption 'Kookaburra'?

The gallery displays a Kookaburra, a bird recognized for its distinctive, laugh-like call.

What bird is depicted in the gallery under the caption 'Barking owl'?

The gallery features a Barking owl, a nocturnal bird of prey native to Australia.

What bird is illustrated in the gallery with the caption 'Plumed whistling duck'?

The gallery illustrates a Plumed whistling duck, a species of waterfowl found in Australia.

What bird is identified in the gallery with the caption 'White-faced heron'?

The gallery identifies a White-faced heron, a wading bird commonly observed in Australian wetlands and coastal areas.

What bird is shown in the gallery with the caption 'Australian magpie'?

The gallery shows an Australian magpie, a common and recognizable bird species across Australia, often seen in urban and rural areas.

What bird is illustrated in the gallery with the caption 'Rainbow bee-eater'?

The gallery illustrates a Rainbow bee-eater, a brightly colored bird known for its diet of insects, particularly bees.

What bird is identified in the gallery with the caption 'Apostlebird'?

The gallery identifies an Apostlebird, a social bird species native to Australia, often seen in small groups.

What bird is shown in the gallery with the caption 'Australian brush turkey'?

The gallery shows an Australian brush turkey, a large ground-dwelling bird belonging to the megapode family, known for constructing large nesting mounds.

What bird is illustrated in the gallery with the caption 'Australian king parrot'?

The gallery illustrates an Australian king parrot, a vibrantly colored parrot species native to eastern Australia.

What bird is identified in the gallery with the caption 'Black kite'?

The gallery identifies a Black kite, a medium-sized bird of prey belonging to the kite family, commonly found in Australia.

What bird is shown in the gallery with the caption 'Cattle egret'?

The gallery shows a Cattle egret, a species of heron often found foraging in fields alongside livestock.

What bird is illustrated in the gallery with the caption 'Eastern yellow robin'?

The gallery illustrates an Eastern yellow robin, a small passerine bird characterized by its yellow breast.

What bird is identified in the gallery with the caption 'Noisy friarbird'?

The gallery identifies a Noisy friarbird, a species of bird known for its loud and distinctive calls.

What bird is shown in the gallery with the caption 'Mistletoebird'?

The gallery shows a Mistletoebird, a small bird species that primarily feeds on mistletoe berries.

What bird is illustrated in the gallery with the caption 'Superb lyrebird'?

The gallery illustrates a Superb lyrebird, a ground-dwelling bird famous for its elaborate tail feathers and remarkable ability to mimic sounds.

What bird is identified in the gallery with the caption 'Tawny frogmouth'?

The gallery identifies a Tawny frogmouth, a nocturnal bird known for its exceptional camouflage, which resembles a broken tree branch.

What is the function of the 'References' section within the article on Birds of Australia?

The 'References' section serves to list the sources, such as books and online publications, that were used to gather and verify the information presented in the article, providing citations for the data.

Birds Of Australia Wiki: Avian Tapestry: An Ornithological Exploration of Australia

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Overview

Species Diversity

Australia and its associated territories host an impressive array of avian life, with 898 recorded bird species as of 2014. Among these, 165 are classified as vagrant or accidental visitors. A significant portion, over 45% of the remainder, are endemic to Australia, meaning they are found nowhere else on Earth. This rich biodiversity faces contemporary challenges, with projections suggesting up to 10% of Australian bird species could face extinction by 2100 due to climate change.

Size and Form

The avian fauna of Australia spans a remarkable range in size and form. From the diminutive Weebill, measuring a mere 8 cm (3.1 in), to the majestic, flightless Emu, the continent's birdlife exhibits extraordinary variation. This diversity reflects adaptation to a wide array of ecological niches across the continent.

Convergent Evolution

Many Australian bird species may appear familiar to observers from the Northern Hemisphere due to convergent evolution. Unrelated species occupying similar ecological roles often develop analogous physical characteristics and behaviors. For instance, Australian wrens and robins share traits with their Northern Hemisphere counterparts, despite distinct evolutionary paths. This phenomenon is particularly evident in small insectivorous birds, where adaptations for agility and foraging result in similar body plans across continents.

Classification of Australian Birds

Old Endemics

This category comprises long-established, non-passerine birds with ultimate Gondwanan origins. Notable examples include the Emu, Cassowary, and the diverse parrot group, representing ancient lineages deeply rooted in the continent's evolutionary history.

Corvid Radiation

A significant radiation of passerine birds unique to Australasia, these species are descended from the crow family. They have diversified to occupy a vast array of ecological roles and sizes. This group includes iconic birds such as wrens, robins, magpies, thornbills, pardalotes, the extensive honeyeater family, treecreepers, lyrebirds, birds-of-paradise, and bowerbirds.

Eurasian Colonists

These are species that arrived later from Eurasia, colonizing Australia over time. Examples include plovers, swallows, larks, thrushes, cisticolas, sunbirds, and certain birds of prey. Their presence reflects historical migratory patterns and continental connections.

Recent Introductions

This group consists of species introduced to Australia by humans relatively recently. Some, like the European Goldfinch and Greenfinch, appear to coexist harmoniously with native fauna. However, others, such as the Common Starling, Blackbird, House Sparrow, Tree Sparrow, and Common Myna, are considered more ecologically disruptive.

Migratory Shorebirds

A distinct suite of waders belonging to the Scolopacidae and Charadriidae families. These birds undertake extensive migrations, breeding in northern Asia and Alaska before spending the non-breeding season in Australasia. Their presence highlights Australia's role in global avian migratory flyways.

Seabirds

This category encompasses a large and cosmopolitan group of marine birds. It includes petrels, albatrosses, sulids, gulls, terns, and cormorants. Many of these species either breed on islands within Australian territory or frequent its extensive coastlines and territorial waters, playing vital roles in marine ecosystems.

Regional Distribution

Comprehensive Lists

Detailed avian inventories are maintained for various regions across Australia, providing specific insights into local species composition and distribution. These resources are invaluable for researchers, conservationists, and bird enthusiasts seeking to understand the nuances of Australia's avifauna.

Key regional lists include:

National Coverage: List of birds of Australia (covering mainland and territories).
Major Reference: List of birds of Australia, New Zealand and Antarctica (from the HANZAB series).
Endemic Species: List of endemic birds of Australia.
State & Territory Lists: Comprehensive lists are available for Victoria, New South Wales & Lord Howe Island, Queensland, Western Australia, Tasmania, Northern Territory, and South Australia.
Island Lists: Specific lists exist for islands such as Ashmore Reef, Boigu, Saibai and Dauan Islands (Torres Strait), Christmas Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands, Heard Island, Kangaroo Island, and the Houtman Abrolhos.

Distribution Patterns

The distribution of bird species across Australia is influenced by diverse habitats, from arid deserts and tropical rainforests to temperate woodlands and coastal regions. Endemic species often exhibit restricted ranges, while migratory birds utilize specific corridors and stopover sites. Understanding these patterns is crucial for effective conservation planning and habitat management.

Conservation Organizations

National Bodies

Several prominent organizations are dedicated to the study, conservation, and appreciation of Australian birds.

BirdLife Australia: The leading non-governmental organization focused on birds, birding, ornithology, and conservation. Formed from the merger of the Royal Australasian Ornithologists Union and Bird Observation & Conservation Australia.
Australian Bird Study Association: Supports bird banding and field ornithology.
Birding-Aus: An internet mailing list facilitating discussions on Australian birds.

Regional Affiliates

Numerous state and territory-based organizations contribute to local conservation efforts and birdwatching communities. These include groups such as:

Australian Capital Territory: Birds Australia Southern NSW & ACT, Canberra Ornithologists Group.
New South Wales: NSW Bird Atlassers Inc., Birding NSW, Birds Australia Northern NSW, Cumberland Bird Observers Club, Blue Mountains Bird Observers Inc.
Queensland: Birds Australia Capricornia, Birds Australia North Queensland, Birds Australia Southern Queensland, Birds Queensland.
South Australia: Birds SA.
Tasmania: Birds Tasmania.
Victoria: Birds Australia - Victoria.
Western Australia: Birds Australia Western Australia.

References and Field Guides

Authoritative Resources

A range of comprehensive references and field guides are available for identifying and understanding Australian birds. These resources are essential for both amateur enthusiasts and professional ornithologists.

Comprehensive Surveys:
- The Handbook of Australian, New Zealand and Antarctic Birds (HANZAB): The pre-eminent scientific reference in seven volumes.
- The New Atlas of Australian Birds: An extensive survey of bird distributions.
- The Action Plan for Australian Birds 2000: Details conservation status and strategies.
Field Guides:
- Pizzey: Field Guide to the Birds of Australia (7th ed., 2003)
- Slater: The Slater Field Guide to Australian Birds (2009 revised ed.)
- Simpson and Day: Field Guide to the Birds of Australia (8th ed., 2010)
- Morcombe: Field Guide to Australian Birds (Complete compact ed., 2004)
- Flegg: Photographic Field Guide: Birds of Australia (2nd ed., 2002)
- Trounson: Australian Birds: A Concise Photographic Field Guide (2005 reprint)
- Cayley: What Bird is That? (2000 ed.)
Regional Guides:
- Finding Australian Birds (Dolby & Clarke, 2014): Highlights prime birding locations.
- Where to See Birds in Victoria (Dolby, 2009): Focuses on Victorian birdwatching sites.

Parasitic Fauna

Notable Absences

A significant aspect of Australia's avian health landscape is the absence of certain widespread parasitic organisms. Specifically, several Apicomplexan parasites commonly found globally are not present in Australia. This includes certain species of avian haemoproteids and avian Plasmodium spp., which are notably absent from the continent's bird populations.

Featured Species Gallery

Iconic and Diverse Birds

Australia's unique birdlife is showcased through a variety of species, each contributing to the continent's rich ecological tapestry. While direct image display is not feasible, these notable birds represent the diversity found across the continent:

🦅 Wedgetail eagle
🐦 Forest kingfisher
🦉 Kookaburra
🦉 Barking owl
🦆 Plumed whistling duck
🦢 White-faced heron
🐦 Australian magpie
🌈 Rainbow bee-eater
🐦 Apostlebird
🦃 Australian brush turkey
🦜 Australian king parrot
🦅 Black kite
🦢 Cattle egret
💛 Eastern yellow robin
🐦 Noisy friarbird
🐦 Mistletoebird
🎶 Superb lyrebird
🦉 Tawny frogmouth

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References

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

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes exclusively. The content is derived from a snapshot of publicly available data and may not be entirely comprehensive, current, or precise.

This is not professional ornithological advice. The information provided herein is not a substitute for consultation with qualified ornithologists, wildlife biologists, or conservation experts. Always refer to authoritative sources and consult with professionals for specific ecological or conservation inquiries.

The creators of this page assume no responsibility for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information presented.

Avian Tapestry

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Overview 🇦🇺

🔢 Species Diversity

📏 Size and Form

🤔 Convergent Evolution

Classification of Australian Birds 🗂️

🌿 Old Endemics

👑 Corvid Radiation

🌍 Eurasian Colonists

🚢 Recent Introductions

✈️ Migratory Shorebirds

🌊 Seabirds

Regional Distribution 🗺️

📍 Comprehensive Lists

📊 Distribution Patterns

Conservation Organizations 🤝

🏛️ National Bodies

🌳 Regional Affiliates

References and Field Guides 📚

📖 Authoritative Resources

Parasitic Fauna 🦠

🚫 Notable Absences

Featured Species Gallery 🖼️

🦅 Iconic and Diverse Birds

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

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References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

Species Diversity

Size and Form

Convergent Evolution

Classification of Australian Birds

Old Endemics

Corvid Radiation

Eurasian Colonists

Recent Introductions

Migratory Shorebirds

Seabirds

Regional Distribution

Comprehensive Lists

Distribution Patterns

Conservation Organizations

National Bodies

Regional Affiliates

References and Field Guides

Authoritative Resources

Parasitic Fauna

Notable Absences

Featured Species Gallery

Iconic and Diverse Birds

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice