The Eurasian Blackbird (Turdus merula)

The Eurasian Blackbird (Turdus merula) also referred as Common Blackbird in Europe, a melodious songster adorned in a sleek black plumage, holds a unique place in the tapestry of Australia's avian diversity. Its presence in the land Down Under traces back to the 1800s when it was introduced to Melbourne, Victoria. From this initial introduction, the Eurasian Blackbird has embarked on an impressive expansion, successfully dispersing throughout much of southeastern Australia.



This ground-feeding bird, a common sight in gardens, parks, and open woodlands, has earned a reputation for its melodious repertoire, serenading its surroundings with a rich, flute-like song. Its diet is as diverse as its habitats, encompassing a variety of insects, earthworms, seeds, and berries. While its omnivorous nature provides sustenance, it has also led to its classification as a pest species, as it can cause damage to fruit crops.



Despite its occasional conflicts with human interests, the Eurasian Blackbird remains a captivating addition to Australia's avian landscape. Its adaptability and melodic presence have earned it a place among the country's most recognizable and well-loved birds.



In 2017, I had the privilege of encountering the Eurasian Blackbird in its native range, Israel. Amidst the vibrant greenery of the region, I was enchanted by its familiar song, a reminder of its remarkable journey across continents. The encounter served as a testament to the Eurasian Blackbird's resilience and adaptability, qualities that have facilitated its successful establishment in Australia.



The Eurasian Blackbird's presence in Australia serves as a reminder of the intricate connections that bind the natural world. Its journey across continents highlights the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the enduring impact that human actions can have on the distribution of species. While its presence has not been without challenges, the Eurasian Blackbird has undoubtedly enriched Australia's avian tapestry, adding a touch of European charm to the continent's diverse birdlife.

Scaly-breasted Munia (Lonchura punctulata)

Scaly-breasted Munia (Lonchura punctulata) also called as Spotted Munia is fairly common bird in peninsular India. This is also a popular cage bird in pet trade and is called as Nutmeg Mannikin or Spice Finch. Also known in popular culture due to songs like "चलत मुसाफ़िर मोह लियो रे पिंजड़े वाली मुनिया". 

This Munia is distributed from India to Indonesia and has been introduced and established in Australia and Puerto Rico & Hispaniola. They feed on grass seeds and small insects. They form flocks of up to 100 individuals. 

References:

• iNaturalist records 21613164, 367786, 20474525
• Wikipedia 

Yellow-rumped Warbler (Setophaga coronata)

Yellow-rumped Warbler (Setophaga coronate) is a north American bird of family Parulidae. It has four subspecies the eastern myrtle warbler (ssp. coronata); its western counterpart, Audubon's warbler (ssp. group auduboni); the northwest Mexican black-fronted warbler (ssp. nigrifrons); and the Guatemalan Goldman's warbler (ssp. goldmani).

This is a very versatile foragers of all the warblers. Very active birs notices most of the times due to its call among the tree canopy.

The Madagascan wagtail (Motacilla flaviventris)

The Madagascan wagtail (Motacilla flaviventris) is a species of wagtail in the Motacillidae family. It is endemic to Madagascar and is found throughout the island.

The diet of the Madagascan wagtail mainly consists of small invertebrates, notably insects and spiders. It forages by walking or running on the ground, moving its tail up and down in typical wagtail fashion and suddenly jumping up a few meters into the air to capture prey. Movements are very similar to wagtails I have seen in India.

References:

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Madagascan_wagtail