After weeks of passionate voting, lively debates, and a celebration of our feathered friends, the results are in. We’re excited to share that the two-time runner-up Tawny Frogmouth has officially been crowned Australian Bird of the Year 2025! Third time’s the charm.
This charismatic nocturnal bird has captured the hearts of Australians with its wide-eyed charm, cryptic camouflage, and endearing personality. Often mistaken for an owl, the Tawny Frogmouth is actually more closely related to night jars, and it’s famous for its uncanny ability to blend into tree branches, thanks to its mottled plumage and signature “broken branch”pose.
Why the Tawny Frogmouth won our hearts
The Tawny Frogmouth’s win is a testament to the growing appreciation for Australia’s native species. While it may not have the flashiness of a Rainbow Bee-eater or the fame of the Laughing Kookaburra, the Tawny Frogmouth has become a quiet icon of suburban backyards and bushland alike. Its gentle presence, quirky expressions, and low, resonant calls have made it a favourite among bird lovers and casual observers alike.
Of course, the Tawny Frogmouth was the runner up in the last two polls for Australian Bird of the Year! And if there’s anything Australians like, it’s an underbird.
At Bank Australia, we’ve been really proud to support the Australian Bird of the Year campaign. This initiative not only celebrates the diversity of our native birdlife but also raises awareness about the importance of conservation and habitat protection.
For species like the Tawny Frogmouth, which faces threats from urban development, vehicle collisions, and habitat loss – but also for those facing extinction like the Bourdain’s Cockatoo or the Swift Parrot (lastpoll’s winner) – public awareness and action can make a difference.
To take action for these birds and our other precious nativebird species, head to BirdLife Australia: their annual Aussie Bird Count starts next week, and you can get involved. It’s a fun, easy way for all of us to take a national snapshot of the birds we see, and start noticing the nature around us.
What’s next for Australia’s favourite bird?
With the spotlight on the Tawny Frogmouth, we hope this win sparks even more interest in protecting the habitats that support these incredible birds. Whether you’re planting native trees, reducing light pollution, or simply keeping an eye out for Frogmouths in your neighbourhood, every action counts.
We’d like to thank everyone who voted, shared their birdstories, and joined us in celebrating the beauty and diversity of Australia’savian life. And of course, congratulations to the Tawny Frogmouth: a true ambassador for the quiet magic of nature.
Want to learn more about how Bank Australia supports biodiversity?
Check out our earlier blog post and explore our commitment to conservation through our conservation reserve (where Tawny Frogmouths have been spotted) and our nature and biodiversity strategy.
