The buff-faced scrubwren is a bird species in the family Acanthizidae. It is found in the highlands of New Guinea; Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.
Region
New Guinea Highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs widely along the Central Cordillera of New Guinea in subtropical to tropical moist montane forest. Favors dense, mossy understory, forest edges, bamboo and tree-fern thickets, and secondary growth with abundant leaf litter. Often near streams and gullies where humidity is high. Typically remains within a few meters of the ground, moving through tangles and low shrubs to glean prey.
Altitude Range
1100–3200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The buff-faced scrubwren is a small, active passerine of New Guinea’s high montane forests, where it keeps to dense understory and mossy tangles. It was formerly placed in the genus Sericornis but is now treated in Aethomyias by most authorities. Pairs or small family groups often accompany mixed-species flocks, staying low and hidden as they forage. Its subtle plumage is offset by a distinctive buffy face with a contrasting dark eye-line.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Most often in pairs or small family groups, frequently joining mixed-species flocks. Nests are typically placed low in dense vegetation, with both adults involved in rearing. Foraging is methodical and close to the ground, with frequent tail flicks and short hops. Territorial calling and soft contact notes keep groups coordinated in thick cover.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of thin, high-pitched trills and chips delivered from low perches within dense foliage. Calls include sharp tseep notes and soft contact twittering, often repeated while foraging. Vocalizations carry poorly, matching its preference for close-range communication in heavy understory.
