The Flock Bronzewing Phaps histrionica in New South Wales, with comments on its biology

Abstract

All known New South Wales reports of the Flock Bronzewing Phaps histrionica presented. The location of type specimens and refinement of the original collecting localities are given. The records show a massive reduction in abundance of Flock Bronzewings in the state. This began in the 1860s and continued to the early 1890s and coincided with the spread of livestock and rabbits through the state. Flock Bronzewings still occur in far western New South Wales after exceptionally wet years, and possibly more regularly near die Bulloo Overflow. What little is known of the diet and preferred habitat in New South Wales is summarised. The only species of food identified is Native Millet Panicum decomposition, though the preferred habitat seems to be grassland dominated by Mitchell grasses Astrebla spp. The habits of the Flock Bronzewing are examined, particularly in relation to use of coloniality.