Shy heathwren

The shy heathwren is a species of small bird in the family Acanthizidae, endemic to Australia. They inhabit mostly mallee woodland that has relatively dense shrub and heath understorey.

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Distribution

Region

Southern Australia

Typical Environment

Occurs patchily through mallee and heathlands of southern mainland Australia, especially in South Australia, Victoria, and western New South Wales. Prefers dense, shrubby understorey on sandy or loamy soils with scattered eucalypts. Often associated with mature mallee stands, broombush, and spinifex clumps that provide cover. Avoids heavily cleared lands and very open sites, persisting best in large, contiguous tracts and well-managed reserves.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 600 m

Climate Zone

Arid

Characteristics

Size13–16 cm

Wing Span18–22 cm

Male Weight0.018 kg

Female Weight0.017 kg

Life Expectancy5 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

The shy heathwren is a small, ground-favoring songbird of dense mallee-heath, where it skulks through low shrubs and leaf litter. It often cocks and fans its long tail, flashing white tips as it darts between cover. Pairs hold territories year-round and build well-concealed, domed nests low to the ground. While the species is not considered globally threatened, it is sensitive to habitat clearing, frequent fire, and predation by cats and foxes.

Gallery

Behaviour

Temperament

shy and skulking

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats

Social Behavior

Typically encountered as pairs or small family groups holding year-round territories. Nests are domed and well concealed in dense shrubs or near ground level. Breeding generally occurs in late winter to spring, with both parents caring for the young.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A soft, musical series of trills and sweet whistles delivered from within cover or a low perch. Also gives thin, scolding contact calls while moving through dense shrubbery.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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