The southern scrub robin is a species of bird in the family Petroicidae. It is endemic to Australia, where it occurs in mallee and heathland in the semi-arid southern parts of the continent. Its range includes several disjoint regions from central New South Wales through western Victoria and southern South Australia, through to the southwestern area of Western Australia.
Region
Southern Australia
Typical Environment
Occurs in disjunct populations across semi-arid mallee and coastal heathlands from central New South Wales through western Victoria and southern South Australia to the southwest of Western Australia. It favors dense, low shrub layers with abundant leaf litter beneath eucalypt mallee, broombush, and coastal heath. Within these habitats it keeps close to cover, using open patches for foraging before retreating into shrubs. It avoids heavily grazed areas and extensive woodlands lacking a shrubby understory.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 600 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The southern scrub robin is an unusual ground-dwelling Australasian robin with very long legs and a long tail it often cocks while moving through dense heath. It prefers to run rather than fly, making short, low flights only when necessary. Its populations are patchy and sensitive to habitat loss and inappropriate fire regimes. Pairs maintain territories year-round and are most easily detected by their clear whistled songs at dawn and dusk.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low to the ground
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs that hold year-round territories. Nests are placed low in dense shrubs or tussocks and are well concealed. Pairs engage in duet-like calling and the male sings from low perches within cover. Breeding involves strong site fidelity across seasons.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of clear, mellow whistles delivered in measured phrases, often repeated. Calls include sharp ticks and thin seep notes, with singing most frequent at dawn and dusk.
