Albert's Lyrebird
Albert's Lyrebird (Menura alberti) is a very rare and reclusive, mostly ground-dwelling bird, that can only be found within a small area of far south-eastern Queensland and north-eastern NSW.
They are most famous for their loud, intricate song which includes spectacular mimicry of other animal species and is accompanied by a dance to attract a mate.
In a breeding display, the male spread its tail forward over its head and body and shivers while calling loudly.
Council has started work to help conserve these rare birds as part of the Lowland Lyrebird Links project.
The aim of the project is to help conserve the species and increase the extent, condition and connectivity of Albert's Lyrebird habitat.
The bird is listed as vulnerable due to its limited distribution, habitat clearing and fragmentation, weed encroachment, and feral pests.
How can you help the Albert’s Lyrebird?
We're seeking help from community citizen scientists to listen out for their distinct call and report their observations online.
There are few details about how many Albert’s Lyrebirds there are in the Tweed as they are elusive and hard to survey.
Listen to the call of the Albert’s Lyrebird
Record your observations online or find out more, including examples of the Albert's Lyrebird's call on the iNaturalist website.
Surveying the birds
Two Albert’s Lyrebirds caught recently on
a monitoring camera at Mount NullumThe technique for surveying the birds is to listen for their call and estimate their activity in an area.
The male Albert's Lyrebird calls more frequently over the winter breeding season, however, they do call all year round and people can record calls any time of the year as part of the project.
The best survey locations are in well-developed and mature rainforest or in wet sclerophyll forest. Try to use a high point, ridge top or other vantage point as your survey location.
Most birds will call during the first half-hour after sunrise so this is the best time to listen for them.
If you don't have suitable habitat on your property, you can record casual calls while bushwalking or visiting areas where they reside.
Albert's Lyrebird survey methods(PDF, 225KB)
Albert's Lyrebird survey form(PDF, 517KB)
For more information on survey techniques email Council’s Project Officer - Wildlife Protection at tsc@tweed.nsw.gov.au.
This project is in partnership with the NSW Government Environmental Trust, Birdlife Northern Rivers, Tweed Valley Landcare, and private landholders.
It is funded in partnership with the NSW Government Save our Species contestable grant program.