The Albert Lyrebird in display

Abstract

The tail of the Albert Lyrebird Menura alberti is basically similar to that of the Superb M. novaehollandiae but is shorter and the outer rectrices are not ornamental. The curvature of the tail differs in the two species resulting in a difference in the appearance of the display. M. alberti does not build mounds but has recognizable though well-concealed display-platforms. Typically these include thin vines on which the bird stands. In full display he uses a particular high-stepping motion. The vines appear able to transmit movement to the surrounding vegetation causing foliage to shake sometimes as much as several metres away from the platform.