The Varied Triller is yet another common bird of the Mission Beach rainforests. This bird is a member of the Cuckoo-shrike family and its diet is similar to its close relatives, insects and caterpillars. The latter are eaten by way of the Trillers being able to remove irritating hairs which many caterpillars have as defensive mechanisms, in their throats before these hairs reach the stomach and cause problems.
The nest is a shallow bowl, always well concealed in mid-storey vegetation.
Look for these enchanting birds throughout the rainforest and in suburban gardens.
Good luck and good birding
Adrian Walker aka Professor Birdbrain
Adrian’s book – Birds of Mission Beach and environs is available through the Mission Beach Visitor Centre at $7.00 plus postage. To purchase call on 07 4068 7099 or email enquiry@missionbeachtourism.com
