Magpie-lark or Peewee

We don’t seem to quite know what to call these birds. Their most common name is Magpie-lark, but they’re neither magpies nor larks. They are sometimes called Peewees in imitation of their call, “pee wee, pee wee”. Other people call them Mudlarks, because they use mud to build their nests.

Magpie-lark usually look quite dapper, their feathers sleek and smooth. This one is a little ruffled, perhaps blown about by the strong wind.

Common name: Magpie-lark

Scientific name: Grallina cyanoleuca

Approximate length: 30 cm

Date spotted: Sunday 30 October 2016

Season: Spring

Location: Manly Dam Reserve, New South Wales, Australia

Latitude/longitude: 33°46’35.5″S 151°14’50.3″E