The rufous-crowned emu-wren is a species of bird in the Australasian wren family, Maluridae. It is endemic to Australia.
Region
Arid interior of Australia
Typical Environment
Found across the arid and semi-arid interior, especially in regions dominated by spinifex hummock grasslands. It inhabits sandy plains, dune fields, and low shrublands with Triodia, as well as acacia and melaleuca thickets interspersed with spinifex. The species remains close to dense cover, moving through the bases of grass clumps and rarely venturing into open ground. After fire, it recolonizes as spinifex structure returns, favoring mid-successional stages with dense hummocks.
Altitude Range
50–800 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This tiny wren carries a disproportionately long, loose, filamentous tail that resembles emu feathers, giving the group its name. It lives almost exclusively in dense spinifex (Triodia) hummock grass, where it skulks low and is more often heard than seen. Fire strongly shapes its habitat, and the species tends to recolonize areas as spinifex regrows. Its soft, insect-like calls help family groups keep in contact within prickly grass clumps.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low fluttering flights between cover
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups that keep tight contact while moving through spinifex. Nests are domed and well concealed low in dense grass. Pair bonds are strong, and groups often remain within a small home range where cover is continuous.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song and calls are soft, high-pitched trills and insect-like buzzes that carry poorly in open air but travel within dense grass. Contact notes are thin and sibilant, often the first clue to the bird’s presence.
