Alectura lathami (Family: Megapodiidae)
Australian Brush-turkey
A large, megapode bird with a turkey-like appearance, characterized by its long tail, sturdy legs, and habit of scratching at the ground for food.
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Plumage & appearance
Mostly black feathers with a bare, bright red head and a yellow throat wattle that becomes more prominent in males during breeding.
Ecological significance
Acts as a major seed disperser and soil aerator as it searches for food and builds massive incubation mounds from leaf litter.
Conservation status
Least Concern
Observation tips
Look for them in rainforests, scrublands, or suburban gardens scratching through mulch; they are most active during the day and relatively unafraid of humans.
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