The Pilbara grasswren, also known as the rufous grasswren, is an insectivorous bird in the Australasian wren family Maluridae. It is found in Western Australia. It was formerly considered to be conspecific with the sandhill grasswren.
Region
Northwest Australia
Typical Environment
Occurs primarily across rocky ranges, breakaways, and stony slopes within the Pilbara where dense spinifex (Triodia) dominates. It favors rugged terrain with scattered acacias and eucalypts, using hummock grass for cover and nesting. The species is highly localized and tied to intact spinifex communities, avoiding open plains and heavily disturbed areas.
Altitude Range
0–1100 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Pilbara grasswren, often called the rufous grasswren, is a spinifex specialist that spends most of its time hopping between dense Triodia hummocks. It is endemic to the Pilbara region of Western Australia and was formerly treated as conspecific with the sandhill grasswren. Pairs maintain year-round territories and often duet, making their presence known despite their secretive habits.
Temperament
secretive and wary
Flight Pattern
short rapid flights low over spinifex
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family groups that defend stable territories year-round. Nests are concealed within dense spinifex hummocks, with both adults helping to rear young. Courtship includes close chasing through cover and soft duets.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of thin, tinkling trills and whistles, often delivered as duets between pair members. Contact calls are sharp ticks given while moving through dense cover.
Plumage
Warm rufous-brown upperparts with fine pale streaking on the crown and mantle; underparts buff to whitish with variable streaking; long, graduated tail often held cocked.
Diet
Feeds mainly on small insects and other arthropods gleaned from spinifex tussocks, leaf litter, and low shrubs. It also takes spiders and occasionally small seeds, especially in drier periods. Foraging is mostly on or near the ground, with quick hops and short dashes between cover.
Preferred Environment
Dense spinifex hummocks on rocky hillsides, ridgelines, and gullies provide primary foraging sites. It avoids open ground, staying close to protective grass clumps and shrubs.
