Australian Logrunner
NameAustralian Logrunner
Common NameAustralian Logrunner
Scientific NameOrthonyx temminckii
FamilyOrthonychidae
Wingspan (cm)22
Length (cm)18
Weight (g)60
Plumage DetailsMales have a rufous-brown crown, grey face, and a distinctive white throat and breast. Their upperparts are dark brown, heavily streaked with black and white on the back and wings, with a rufous-brown rump and tail. Females are similar but possess a rufous-orange throat and breast patch instead of white.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include loud, ringing calls often described as 'chip-chip-chip' or 'chick-chick-chick' followed by a whip-like crack. They also produce a distinctive whirring sound with their wings during flight.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to eastern Australia, inhabiting a narrow coastal strip from southeastern Queensland through eastern New South Wales.
Identifying FeaturesStiff, spiny tail feathers, Ground-dwelling behavior, Rufous-brown crown and grey face, Streaked dark brown upperparts, White (male) or rufous-orange (female) throat and breast
Description
The Australian Logrunner is a small, ground-dwelling bird known for its stiff, spiny tail feathers which it uses to brace itself while foraging. It primarily scratches through leaf litter on the forest floor in search of invertebrates.
