The Superb Lyrebird Menura novaehollandiae at Tidbinbilla, ACT

Abstract

The territories of nine male lyrebirds were studied at or above 1,000 metres elevation, at Tidbinbilla, ACT. The average size of territories was 2.4 hectares and the average number of display mounds per territory was forty-two. Movement was influenced by the male's need to defend his territory and to attract a mate but he used the coolest part of the territory consistent with these needs. Singing by individuals was not influenced by temperature. The peak of singing in the area coincided closely with laying. Breeding started in winter when daylength is short, humidity high and temperature low. The incubation period is long, so that, although eggs are laid when little food is available, there is plenty when the young are most demanding.