The northern scrub robin is a species of bird in the family Petroicidae. It is found in northern Cape York Peninsula in Queensland, Australia. It was found to be genetically distinct from the Papuan scrub robin, which were thought to be members of the same species.
Region
Northeastern Australia (Cape York Peninsula)
Typical Environment
Occurs in dense lowland habitats including monsoon vine thickets, rainforest margins, coastal scrub, and riparian tangles. Prefers areas with a thick, shaded understory and abundant leaf litter. Often found near creeks, swamp edges, and sheltered gullies where cover is continuous. Avoids open woodland and exposed savanna, moving between patches of dense vegetation.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 400 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A shy ground-foraging robin of the Australian family Petroicidae, the northern scrub robin is confined to the Cape York Peninsula. It was split from the Papuan scrub robin on genetic and vocal differences. Birds often flick their rufous tails and give clear, whistled phrases from dense cover.
Bird illustration by Elizabeth Gould for Birds of Australia
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen alone or in pairs, maintaining year-round territories. Nests are placed low in dense shrubs or vine tangles, with small clutches guarded closely by both adults. Foraging is methodical, with birds hopping and pausing to scan leaf litter before pouncing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song consists of clear, whistled phrases delivered from low perches within cover, often repeated in measured sequences. Calls include sharp ticking contact notes and soft piping when alarmed or interacting at the nest.
Plumage
Warm brown upperparts with a contrasting white throat and breast that may show a faint buff wash; rufous tail often flicked to reveal darker subterminal shading. Underparts otherwise pale, with fine, subtle streaking on the upper breast. Texture is smooth and close-feathered, aiding stealth in dense scrub.
Diet
Feeds primarily on ground-dwelling insects and other small invertebrates such as spiders, beetles, ants, and larvae. It gleans and probes among leaf litter, and will sally a short distance to snatch prey. Occasional small seeds or fruit may be taken incidentally but are not a major component.
Preferred Environment
Forages on the forest floor and low understory of vine thickets, rainforest edges, and dense coastal scrub. Frequently uses shaded, moist microhabitats near watercourses where leaf litter is deep and prey is abundant.
