Black grasswren

The black grasswren, known as dalal to the Wunambal people, is a species of bird in the family Maluridae. It is endemic to Western Australia.

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Distribution

Region

Kimberley region, Western Australia

Typical Environment

Occurs in the northwestern Kimberley on rugged sandstone plateaus, escarpments, and deeply dissected gorges. Prefers areas with extensive spinifex (Triodia) hummocks interspersed with rock slabs and boulder piles. Often uses pandanus thickets and rocky creeklines for cover and nesting sites. The species is highly localized and patchy, largely tied to complex rocky microhabitats with dense ground cover.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 600 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size16–19 cm

Wing Span20–24 cm

Male Weight0.025 kg

Female Weight0.023 kg

Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

The black grasswren (dalal to the Wunambal people) is a secretive, ground-oriented wren confined to the rugged Kimberley of Western Australia. It keeps to dense spinifex and boulder fields, moving in quick dashes and short low flights. Its remote habitat shields it from many threats, but altered fire regimes can impact local populations. Pairs maintain territories year-round and are most vocal at dawn after seasonal rains.

Behaviour

Temperament

skulking and secretive

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats, low fluttering dashes between cover

Social Behavior

Usually found in pairs or small family groups that maintain permanent territories. Nests are placed low in dense spinifex or tucked within rocky crevices. Breeding typically follows seasonal rains, with both adults contributing to territory defense and care of young. They spend much time on or near the ground, slipping between rocks and hummocks.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Song consists of soft, tinkling trills and thin, scratchy warbles delivered from within cover, most often at dawn. Calls include sharp tiks and scolding chatters used to keep contact while moving through dense vegetation.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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