The western thornbill is a species of bird in the family Acanthizidae. It is endemic to southwestern Australia.
Region
Southwestern Australia
Typical Environment
Found across the winter-rainfall zone of southwestern Australia in eucalypt woodlands, jarrah–marri forests, mallee, and coastal heath. It favors areas with dense understory or midstory foliage for foraging and nesting. The species also uses acacia thickets and scrubby edges, and may venture into revegetated areas and parks with native plantings. It is typically a resident within its range, with local movements following food availability.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The western thornbill is a tiny, energetic passerine endemic to southwestern Australia, where it flits through eucalypt woodlands and heath. It often joins mixed-species foraging flocks and frequently flicks its tail while gleaning insects from leaves and twigs. Its nest is a neat, domed structure hidden in dense shrubs.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually forages in pairs or small family groups and commonly joins mixed-species flocks with other small insectivores. Pairs are socially monogamous and build a domed nest in dense shrubs or low trees. Both adults care for the young, and family groups may stay together after fledging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of thin, tinkling trills and high, sibilant notes delivered in short phrases. Calls include soft chips and scolding chatters while foraging, often repeated in quick sequences.
Plumage
Dull olive-brown upperparts with paler, buff-tinged underparts and fine dusky streaking on the breast and face. Wings and tail are brown with slightly paler fringes; tail often shows a darker subterminal band and pale tips. Overall appearance is plain and subtly streaked, with a neat, compact look.
Diet
Primarily small arthropods such as insects and spiders, gleaned from foliage, twigs, and bark. It probes among leaves and flower heads and may hover briefly to pick prey from outer foliage. Occasionally takes tiny seeds or honeydew but remains chiefly insectivorous.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in the lower to mid canopy of eucalypts and acacias, as well as in dense heath and mallee scrub. Often forages along edges and within structurally complex shrubs where prey is abundant.
