There are two bird species in this family, the Superb Lyrebird (Menura superba) and Albert's Lyrebird (Menura alberti). They are found in forested areas of eastern Australia and are 30-40 inches in length. They are brown in color and look like pheasants.
The male lyrebird has an long, elaborate tail that looks like a lyre! A lyre is a type of harp. Lyrebirds are ground dwellers. They eat insects, spiders, and seeds.
If you just looked at a lyrebird, you wouldn't think it belonged in the Passeriformes order, but lyrebirds have great vocal ability and are known for their loud ringing call. They can even mimic other sounds!
Menuridae Photo Gallery
World Status Key
Least Concern Near Threatened Vulnerable Endangered Critically Endangered Extinct in Wild Extinct
Status and range is taken from ICUN Redlist. If no status is listed, there is not enough data to establish status.
US Status Key
Threatened in US Threatened in NH Endangered in US Endangered in NH Introduced
Status taken from US Fish and Wildlife and NH Fish and Game
New Hampshire Species |
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North/Central American Species |
None
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Additional Information Key: Profile Photos Video Audio Albert's Lyrebird - Menura alberti
Albert's lyrebird is found in Australia.
Source: Arkive Intended Audience: General Reading Level: Middle School
Superb Lyrebird - Menura novaehollandiae
The superb lyrebird is found in Australia.
Source: Arkive Intended Audience: General Reading Level: Middle School
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