The Tasmanian scrubwren or brown scrubwren is a bird species endemic to the temperate forests of Tasmania and nearby King Island. It lives in the understory of rainforest, woodland, dry forest, swamps and coastal scrublands.
Region
Tasmania and King Island
Typical Environment
This species occupies the understory of temperate rainforests, wet and dry eucalypt forests, coastal scrub, tea-tree swamps, and dense heaths. It favors areas with heavy leaf litter, ferny gullies, and tangled shrubs that provide cover and foraging opportunities. It is often near streams and in damp forest edges but also occurs in coastal thickets and sheltered dunes. Within its limited island range it can be common where dense understory persists.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Found only in Tasmania and nearby King Island, the Tasmanian scrubwren is a shy understory specialist that spends much of its time close to the ground. It builds a domed nest of moss and grasses with a side entrance, tucked into dense cover. Often detected by its sharp scolding calls and quiet trills, it flicks its tail as it forages. Despite its secretive habits, it is locally common in suitable habitat.
The scrubwrens by Neville William Cayley, including S. humilis on the right.
Temperament
secretive and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low fluttering dashes
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family groups, maintaining territories year-round. Nests are domed structures placed low in dense vegetation or near the ground. Breeding pairs are monogamous; the female incubates while both adults feed the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a soft series of thin trills and tinkling notes delivered from low perches inside cover. Calls include sharp scolding ‘tchik’ and ‘tzeet’ notes when alarmed. Vocalizations carry poorly, matching its preference for dense understory.
Plumage
Plain brown to olive-brown above with slightly warmer tones on the wings and rump; underparts grey-brown with a paler throat and subtle mottling. Feathers are soft and relatively loose, aiding a rounded, compact look. Tail is often cocked and appears slightly rounded.
Diet
Primarily small insects and other arthropods such as spiders, beetles, and larvae gleaned from leaf litter and low foliage. It also probes bark crevices and turns leaves to expose prey. Occasional small seeds or berries may be taken, especially outside the breeding season.
Preferred Environment
Feeds on or near the forest floor, in dense shrub layers, and among bracken and ferns. Frequently forages along edges of tracks and stream banks where litter accumulates. Often remains under cover while feeding.
