Brown Thornbill
NameBrown Thornbill
Common NameBrown Thornbill
Scientific NameAcanthiza pusilla
FamilyAcanthizidae
Wingspan (cm)15
Length (cm)9.5
Weight (g)7
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are brown, with a distinctive rufous rump. Underparts are greyish-white, often with fine streaking on the throat and breast. The forehead is reddish-brown with pale scalloping, and there is a dark eye-stripe contrasting with a pale eyebrow.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its melodious and complex song, which often includes trills and mimicry of other bird species. It also gives sharp 'chip' or 'tzip' alarm calls.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to southeastern Australia, including Tasmania. It is widespread throughout its range.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size (approx. 9-10 cm), Brown upperparts with rufous rump, Reddish-brown forehead with pale scalloping, Fine streaking on throat and breast, Active foraging in dense undergrowth
Description
A small, active, and often inconspicuous passerine bird native to southeastern Australia. It is characterized by its brown upperparts, rufous rump, and finely streaked throat, foraging primarily for insects in the undergrowth and lower canopy.
