The striated fieldwren is a species of bird in the family Acanthizidae, endemic to Australia.
Region
Southern Australia
Typical Environment
Occurs along the southern coast of mainland Australia and in Tasmania, favoring dense coastal heath, saltmarsh edges, and tussock grasslands. It keeps close to the ground, moving through sedges, tea-tree thickets, and low shrubs. The species is patchy but locally common where continuous, dense cover remains. Habitat fragmentation and coastal development can limit its occurrence, but intact reserves support stable populations.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 300 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A secretive, ground-hugging songbird of coastal heaths and saltmarsh, it often remains hidden until it delivers a bright, tinkling song from the top of a shrub. Its bold streaking provides excellent camouflage among sedges and tussock grasses. The species is a good indicator of healthy, dense low vegetation in temperate coastal ecosystems.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and direct over vegetation
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, maintaining territories year-round. Pairs build a domed or globular nest low in dense vegetation. Breeding typically occurs in spring to summer with clutches of several pale, speckled eggs.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a bright, tinkling series of trills and metallic notes, often delivered from an exposed perch despite the bird’s otherwise secretive habits. Calls include thin ‘tsee’ notes and a buzzing chatter used for contact and alarm.
