Apostlebird
Struthidea cinerea
Corcoracidae
The Apostlebird has earned its name because it is highly gregarious, usually seen in groups of up to 30 birds. Early settlers believed that these groups always comprised 12 birds, and likened these to the apostles of Jesus Christ. Apostlebirds often associate with another gregarious species, the White-winged Chough, and both species build distinctive nests from mud, though the Apostlebirds’ nest is smaller. Although this nest provides a sure indication that the species is present, Apostlebirds are usually conspicuous, giving a wide range of calls and calling often.