Kalkadoon Grasswren
NameKalkadoon Grasswren
Common NameKalkadoon Grasswren
Scientific NameAmytornis ballarae
FamilyMaluridae
Wingspan (cm)16.5
Length (cm)16.5
Weight (g)19
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are dark brown with prominent white streaking on the head, neck, and back, creating a striped appearance. It features a distinct white supercilium and malar stripe. The underparts are paler, with a rich rufous wash on the flanks and belly.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations typically consist of a soft, high-pitched trill or a series of quiet 'tseet' notes. The song is often described as a delicate, musical warble.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to a restricted area in north-western Queensland, Australia, specifically found in the Selwyn Range and Mount Isa region.
Identifying FeaturesProminent white streaking on dark brown head and back, Rufous flanks and belly, Long, often cocked tail, Secretive behavior, preferring to run through spinifex, Found exclusively in rocky, spinifex-dominated habitats
Description
The Kalkadoon Grasswren is a small, secretive passerine endemic to rocky, spinifex-covered hillsides in Queensland, Australia. It is known for its distinctive streaked plumage and elusive nature, often running through dense vegetation rather than flying.
