This little Australian Miner landed on a branch near me and started that incessant eep-eep noise that they’re renowned for. It’s as if the bird is auditioning to do the soundtracks for two Hitchcock movies at once: The Birds and Psycho.

Well? Do I get the job?

How about if I spin my head around. You know, like in The Exorcist?

No? OK then, on to the next audition…

Common name: Noisy Miner, also called Australian Miner

Scientific name: Manorina melanocephala

Approximate length: 26 cm

Date spotted: 3 March 2018 (Summer)

Approximate location: Allambie Heights, NSW, Australia: 33°46’23.3″S 151°15’43.1″E