Black Currawong

Common Name: Black Currawong

Scientific Name: Strepera fuliginosa

Native to: Endemic to Tasmania and nearby islands in the Bass Strait. Endemic means that it is only found in these areas and nowhere else in the world!

What does it look like: The black currawong is a medium-sized bird with a large black bill and yellow eyes. They are all black except for white patches at the ends of their wings and tail. This species' male and female appearance is similar; however, young birds may appear browner-tinged.

Habitat and Diet: The black currawong prefers to live in wetter eucalypt forests but inhabits a range of habitats in Tasmania. They occupy mountain and lower altitude forests, shrubbed areas, forests along the beach, and suburban areas. They are omnivorous, meaning that they eat both plant and animal material. Black currawongs use their bills to turn over earth and rocks, looking for food. They eat carrion (dead animals), insects, small vertebrates and berries. They will forage in trees but spend more time foraging for food on the ground.

STEM Fun Fact: The Black Currawong is a loud and vocal species and song a range of melodic calls. Their main call has been described as a throaty “kar-week” and “week-kar” sounds.