The southern whiteface is a small passerine found in arid regions across most of the southern half of the Australian continent, excluding Tasmania. Superficially finch-like in appearance, this insectivorous bird is relatively common throughout most of its range, however, overall populations appear to be in decline.
Region
Southern and inland Australia
Typical Environment
Occurs across much of the southern half of the Australian continent, from coastal heaths and farmland fringes to inland mallee, acacia shrublands, and chenopod scrub. It favors open, sparsely timbered habitats with scattered shrubs and trees and avoids dense forests. Common in semi-arid rangelands and lightly grazed pastoral areas. Absent from Tasmania and much of the wetter tropical north.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Despite its finch-like look, the southern whiteface belongs to the Australasian thornbill family (Acanthizidae), not the true finches. It often forages in small parties and may join mixed-species flocks in open country. Nests are domed with a side entrance and lined with soft materials like feathers. Populations are generally widespread but appear to be slowly declining due to habitat alteration.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, undulating flights
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups and often associates loosely with other small insectivores. Builds a domed nest with a side entrance in dense shrubs or low trees. Pairs are territorial in the breeding season and may maintain small year-round home ranges.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Song is a soft, tinkling series of high, thin notes delivered from low perches. Calls include sharp piping contact notes and a subdued twitter during group foraging.
Plumage
Plain grey-brown above with a contrasting clean white face and pale underparts washed buff. Subtle darker eye-line and lores frame the white face; wings and tail are dusky with paler edges. Overall appearance is neat and smooth, finch-like.
Diet
Primarily gleans small insects and other arthropods from the ground, low shrubs, and fence lines. Frequently probes bark crevices and leaf litter, taking beetles, ants, and caterpillars. Will also take small seeds and other plant material opportunistically, especially in dry periods.
Preferred Environment
Forages in open shrublands, mallee, and lightly wooded paddocks with scattered cover. Often feeds on or near the ground, moving methodically between low shrubs and open patches.
