Pomatostomidae

Pomatostomidae is a family of passerine birds native to Australia and New Guinea. The family contains five extant genera: Pomatostomus, Propylsacrus, Corcorax, and Struthidea. These birds are commonly known as Australasian babblers or pseudobabblers. They are medium-sized birds, typically brown or grey in colour, with long, curved bills.

Australasian babblers are social birds, often seen foraging in small flocks. They are omnivorous, feeding on insects, seeds, and fruits. Their nests are typically cup-shaped and built in trees or shrubs. The family is characterized by its cooperative breeding behavior, where non-breeding individuals assist in raising the young. This cooperative breeding is a significant area of study for ornithologists.

The genus Pomatostomus is the most widespread, with species found across various Australian habitats. Propylsacrus is found in New Guinea, while Corcorax and Struthidea are endemic to Australia, with Corcorax being known for its all-black plumage and Struthidea for its more muted colours. Genetic studies have confirmed the distinctness of these genera within the Pomatostomidae family. Their evolutionary history is closely tied to the biogeography of Australasia.