Postures, Displays and Copulation of the Pied Currawong Strepera graculina

Abstract

Postures and displays of the Pied Currawong Strepera graculina were recorded during 223 hours of observation at seven nests in Wollongong, New South Wales, between 1993 and 2000. The threat posture involved gazing from a horizontal stance to deter or expel avian intruders from the defended territory. Both sexes advertised their breeding status by drooping the wings and cocking the tail. The food-begging display was given only by the female. She quivered her wings and begged vocally when seeking food from the male. The solicitation or flirting display was given by the male and the female, either singly or simultaneously. It involved wing-quivering without an exchange of food, often while the body was slightly crouched. A single intra-pair and a single extra-pair copulation were observed.