The rufous whistler is a species of whistler found in New Caledonia and Australia. Predominantly a reddish-brown and grey bird, it makes up for its subdued plumage with its song-making ability. Like many other members of the Pachycephalidae, it has a variety of musical calls.
Region
Australia
Typical Environment
Occurs widely across mainland Australia in open forests, eucalypt woodlands, acacia scrub, mallee, and coastal heath, and it also frequents riparian corridors. It adapts well to modified landscapes, using farmland shelterbelts, plantations, and suburban parks and gardens. The species generally avoids dense rainforests and treeless deserts, favoring semi-open habitats with scattered trees. During non-breeding seasons some birds move into more coastal or northerly areas.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The rufous whistler is a striking singer with rich, ringing phrases that carry through open woodlands. Males are more boldly patterned than females, showing a crisp white throat and rufous underparts with a dark face mask. Southern populations move seasonally, while many northern birds remain in place year-round. It readily uses parks and shelterbelts, making it a familiar voice near towns in much of Australia.
Temperament
territorial and vocal
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs, defending territories vigorously during the breeding season. Builds a neat, cup-shaped nest in a fork or suspended from slender branches, usually 2–3 eggs. Both adults feed the young, with the female doing most incubation. Outside breeding, some individuals mix loosely with other woodland birds while foraging.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A rich, ringing series of musical whistles delivered in repeated phrases, often persistent through the day. Calls include sharp scolds and varied, melodious motifs; males are especially vocal in spring. The song carries far in open woodland.
Plumage
Male shows grey head and upperparts, a blackish face mask, clean white throat, and rich rufous underparts; female is brownish-grey above with finely streaked white to buff underparts. Both sexes have white edges to the tail and a robust, slightly hooked bill.
Diet
Primarily takes insects and other arthropods such as beetles, caterpillars, spiders, and grasshoppers. Gleans prey from foliage and bark, occasionally sallying to catch flying insects. Will opportunistically take small fruits and seeds, especially outside the breeding season.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the mid to upper canopy of open woodland and forest edges, along riparian vegetation, and in scattered trees across farmland. Frequently visits suburban parks, gardens, and shelterbelts with mature trees.
