Australian Brush-turkey

Megapodius reinwardt

The Australian Brush-turkey, scientifically known as Megapodius reinwardt, is a large, chicken-like bird native to Australia. It is known for its distinctive mound-building behavior, where it constructs large incubation mounds for its eggs. The bird has a dark plumage with a bare, red head and neck. It has a unique, prehistoric appearance and is often found foraging on the forest floor for fruits, seeds, and insects. The Australian Brush-turkey plays a vital role in seed dispersal and nutrient cycling within its habitat.

Habitat: Tropical and subtropical rainforests

Australian Brush-turkey
© Donald Hobern from Copenhagen, Denmark · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0