The striated grasswren is a small, cryptically coloured ground-dwelling species of wren-like bird in the family Maluridae, endemic to Australia. It occupies a large discontinuous range across arid and semi-arid areas of western, central and southern Australia where it is associated with spinifex (Triodia) grass.
Region
Central and southern Australia
Typical Environment
Occupies arid and semi-arid shrublands dominated by spinifex and mallee, including sandplains, dune fields, and stony rises. It favors dense ground-layer cover where it can move unseen through hummocks and low shrubs. Occurs patchily across suitable habitat and may be locally common where spinifex structure is intact. Avoids open grasslands and heavily grazed or recently burnt areas with little cover.
Altitude Range
0–1000 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This secretive grasswren spends most of its time hopping through dense spinifex (Triodia) hummocks, rarely flying except for short dashes between cover. It builds domed nests low in spinifex and is often detected by its tinkling calls rather than by sight. Populations are sensitive to frequent, extensive fires and habitat clearing in mallee and arid shrublands.
Striated grasswren, Gluepot Reserve, South Australia
Striated grasswren calling at Scotia Station, New South Wales. Source: Dan Eyles
Nest photographed by F. L. Whitlock, East Murchison
Temperament
secretive and terrestrial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low dashes between cover
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family groups that maintain year-round territories within dense spinifex. Nests are domed structures hidden in hummocks; clutches are small and breeding often follows rainfall. Adults move mostly on foot, using the long tail for balance while hopping through vegetation.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a soft, tinkling series of high-pitched notes and trills, often delivered from within cover. Contact calls are thin, metallic ticks, with agitated chatter when disturbed.
