TRILLERS

The Varied Triller

(Lalage leucomela)

White-winged Triller

(Lalage tricolor)

Distinguishing the Varied Triller and White-winged Triller

Australia’s woodlands and rainforests are alive with the gentle fluting calls and fluttering movements of trillers—a group of small, lively birds that often go unnoticed by the untrained eye. Among them, the Varied Triller (Lalage leucomela) and the White-winged Triller (Lalage tricolor) quietly play out their roles in the intricate ecosystem, each with unique traits and stories to tell.

Quick Reference Table

FeatureVaried Triller (Lalage leucomela)White-winged Triller (Lalage tricolor)
PlumageUniform black back/wings/head; no white wing patchBlack with prominent white wing patch
UnderpartsWhiteWhite
Preferred HabitatRainforest, coastal forestsOpen woodlands, scrub
RangeEastern & northern AustraliaWidespread across Australia
SongLiquid, complex trillsShorter, sharper trills
Body ShapeStockier, shorter tailSlimmer, longer tail

By observing carefully and listening closely, we not only identify these birds—we become part of their world, connected by curiosity and care for Australia’s wild places.

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