Bush Stone Curlew from neck up looking to the left, greenery in background.

Bush Stone-curlew

Bush Stone-curlew

Check out Australia Zoo’s Bush Stone-curlew!

Our long-legged bush stone-curlews can be seen exploring their home in Grace’s Bird Garden. The bush stone-curlew is found throughout most of mainland Australia. They live in a variety of environments including open forests and woodlands.

 

Bush Stone Curlew sitting on the ground with greenery around.

 

Curlews are predominantly nocturnal, using the cover of darkness to forage for their prey. They are carnivores and will consume ground dwelling insects, small reptiles and small rodents.

 

Bush Stone Curlew from neck up in great detail.

 

Curlews have a very distinct, wailing vocalisation that is often described as eerie and spooky! It can travel long distances and is used to establish their territory.

 

Bush Stone Curlew standing tall and leaning forward.

 

Bush stone-curlews will nest on the ground, amongst leaf litter to camouflage and draw minimal attention to their nesting site. Unfortunately, this makes curlews and their eggs vulnerable to feral cats and foxes. They are currently a species of least concern. 

  • Class of animal icon
    Class

    Aves

  • Genus of animal icon
    Genus

    Burhinus

  • Species of animal icon
    Species

    grallarius

  • height of animal icon
    Height

    52 - 58 centimetres

  • weight of animal icon
    Weight

    530 - 1,200 grams

  • diet of animal icon
    Diet

    Carnivore

  • gestation of animal icon
    Incubation

    30 days