Omnivorous  Friar Bird

One morning in December when we were sitting on the deck, we noticed a Noisy Friar Bird on the ground acting strangely.  We usually see them feeding on nectar or insects in the trees, but this one was pecking and shaking at something.  Closer investigation revealed it had a small snake, which it was softening by banging it on the ground like a Kookaburra does.  We watched it for some time and when Kris went to take a photo it flew into the tree with the snake in its mouth and continued with its meal.  None of our bird books make any mention of Friar Birds eating snakes or lizards.

Margaret Carnell