The Pilotbird is a shy, ground-dwelling songbird endemic to the wet eucalypt forests and temperate rainforests of southeastern Australia. Its rich rufous-brown plumage and short tail make it well camouflaged in the leaf litter. It gains its name from its habit of following lyrebirds.
Where to spot
Endemic to the wet eucalypt forests, temperate rainforests, and dense wet gullies of southeastern Australia, from central New South Wales to western Victoria.
How to spot
Best located by its loud, penetrating call, which sounds like 'pid-e-lot' or 'wee-to-weet'. Listen in dense gullies and wet forest areas. Look for it foraging quietly on the forest floor, often near a lyrebird.
When to spot
Observable year-round. Most active at dawn and dusk.
Where to spot
Endemic to the wet eucalypt forests, temperate rainforests, and dense wet gullies of southeastern Australia, from central New South Wales to western Victoria.
How to spot
Best located by its loud, penetrating call, which sounds like 'pid-e-lot' or 'wee-to-weet'. Listen in dense gullies and wet forest areas. Look for it foraging quietly on the forest floor, often near a lyrebird.
When to spot
Observable year-round. Most active at dawn and dusk.
The Pilotbird earned its name from its habit of closely following Superb Lyrebirds, likely to feed on insects and invertebrates disturbed by the lyrebird's powerful scratching.
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