The western bristlebird is a species of bird in the family Dasyornithidae. It is endemic to the coastal heaths of western Australia.
Region
Southwest Western Australia
Typical Environment
Occurs in coastal and near-coastal heathlands and mallee-heath with dense sedges and shrubs. It favors structurally complex, long-unburnt vegetation often 8–15+ years post-fire. Birds stay close to cover, using low thickets, heath clumps, and sedge tussocks for shelter and nesting. Habitat is fragmented, with strongholds in protected reserves along the south coast.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 400 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Western bristlebirds are shy, ground-dwelling songbirds that skulk through dense coastal heath, more often heard than seen. The stiff bristles at the base of their bill act like tactile whiskers to help them forage in thick vegetation. They prefer long-unburnt heath and are highly sensitive to frequent fires and predation by introduced mammals. Their rich, ringing whistles carry far and are key for territory defense.
Temperament
secretive and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and reluctant flier
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs holding year-round territories. Pairs are likely monogamous and nest low in dense sedges or shrubs, with a well-concealed cup nest near the ground. They spend much of the day moving quietly through cover, running rather than flying when disturbed.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A loud, clear series of ringing whistles and trills delivered from within cover or a low perch. Calls include sharp ticks and churring notes as contact or alarm sounds.
Plumage
Plain olive-brown to rufous-brown upperparts with duller, greyer underparts and fine, subtle streaking; long, rounded tail often held cocked.
Diet
Feeds mainly on ground-dwelling invertebrates such as beetles, ants, spiders, and caterpillars, gleaned from leaf litter and low vegetation. It also probes among sedge bases and fallen debris. Occasional small seeds or plant material may be taken incidentally.
Preferred Environment
Forages under dense heath and sedge cover, along track edges, and within patches of long-unburnt vegetation. Keeps close to shelter, rarely venturing into open ground.
