Pied Currawongs take shine to Shoebuttons

Young Pied Currawong (Strepera graculina) takes a break from a minor role in a massive invasion. An uncommonly large flock of about 200 recently moved through the Jourama Falls area. Some birds moved north and - unusually - have stayed in southwestern parts of Tyto Wetlands.

The attraction? Shoebutton (Ardisia elliptica), yet another garden import showing an unwelcome love of life in North Queensland. Birds find the 2-5-metre shrub berry, berry much to their liking. Of small consolation, the  fruit is not poisonous to people. Another runaway weed for the wetlands. From one or two to thousands in five years!