Superb Lyrebird
Menura novaehollandiae
Conservation Status
Least ConcernAves · Passeriformes · Menuridae
About
The superb lyrebird is an Australian passerine songbird, one of two species from the family Menuridae, with the other being the much rarer Albert's lyrebird. One of the world's largest songbirds, the superb lyrebird is renowned for its elaborate tail and courtship displays, and for its excellent mimicry. The species is endemic to Australia and is found in forest in the southeast of the country. According to David Attenborough, the superb lyrebird displays one of the most sophisticated voice skills within the animal kingdom—"the most elaborate, the most complex, and the most beautiful".
Fun Fact
Superb lyrebirds can mimic virtually any sound — chainsaws, camera shutters, car alarms, and other bird species — with such accuracy that even the imitated species are fooled.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Temperate rainforests
Diet
Insectivore
Lifespan
15-20 years
Threats
- Deforestation
- Illegal Logging