Uncommon-locally moderately common – Sedentary-nomadic. Stands motionless in erect posture, head tilted upward. Strong slow flight; extends neck, legs. Crown black. White eyebrow. Neck white, finely vermiculated. Back, wings, tail, brown, fine buff marks. Upperwing coverts black and white. Black breast band. Underparts white to grey. Legs, feet, pale yellow to grey or olive; has three toes. Female: Narrow brown crown. Neck, breast, off-white to grey. Thin breast band less visable. Less black and white on wing. Size: Male 110-120 cm, Female 80-90cm. M stands to 100cm, F stands to 70cm. Hatchling: Downy; striped buff and brown. Voice: Mainly silent, Guttural roars during spectacular male breeding display. Harsh barking alarm. Habitat: Tropical open grassland, grassy woodland, pastoral land, crops.
The Australian Bustard is a very shy bird and often does not tolerate human approach – walking away slowly whilst keep eyes fixated on the “threat”. Unfortunately, they are often hit by vehicles given their relatively slow nature.
